

An Ayurvedic Treatment for Stress Relief and Relaxation
It is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy that involves pouring oil or other liquids in a stream over the forehead. It is often combined with a head or body massage along with post-therapy herbal medications for efficient outcome.
Shirodhara: How is it done?
Shirodhara is usually performed as part of a Panchakarma therapy following doctor advice, which is a comprehensive detoxification and rejuvenation program in Ayurveda.
However, it can also be done as a standalone treatment for specific conditions or for general well-being. The procedure of shirodhara is as follows:
Patient is asked to lie down on a massage table (Droni) with a towel around the neck. The eyes are covered with cotton pads to protect them from the oil/other herbal liquids.
Therapist prepares a pot or vessel with a hole at the bottom and fills it with warm oil or other liquid suitable for the patient's constitution and condition as per doctor advice. The pot is hung above the patient's head at a certain height and angle so that the oil flows in a thin stream over the forehead.
Oil/medicated liquid is poured continuously for about 30 to 60 minutes.
Liquids used in Shirodhara
Oils: Karpasasthyadi taila, Ksheera bala taila, Chandadi taila, Dhanvantara taila, Narayana taila.
Other liquids: Buttermilk prepared with Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Decoction of Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Milk, Coconut water.
Benefits of Shirodhara
Relieves stress, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and migraines by calming the nervous system and inducing a state of deep relaxation.
Improves sleep quality and quantity by regulating the circadian rhythm and melatonin production.
Enhances cognitive functions such as memory, concentration by stimulating the pituitary and pineal glands.
Balances the hormones and emotions by harmonizing the endocrine system and releasing serotonin and dopamine.
Shirodhara can also help with specific conditions such as:
With Dr. P. Alikuttys Ayurveda & Modern Hospital Kottakkal, professional help in treating the following specific conditions along with additional therapies and medications for better outcome:
Neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.
Psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Limitations of Shirodhara
Shirodhara is a safe and effective therapy for most people. However, it has some limitations such as:
It is not recommended for pregnant women.
It is not advised for people with severe head injuries, brain tumors, or bleeding disorders.
It is not suggested for people with allergies or sensitivities to the liquid used, as it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Contact us today and experience Shirodhara for yourself!
Shirodhara is a wonderful Ayurvedic therapy that can help you achieve a state of bliss and harmony. It can reduce stress, improve sleep, enhance cognition, rejuvenate skin and hair, balance hormones and emotions, and prevent diseases.

Abhyanga The Ancient Ayurvedic Therapy That Can Change Your Life
Abhyanga, also known as Ayurvedic oil massage, is an ancient therapy that has numerous health benefits. Here's a look at Abhyanga, a 6000 years old traditional practice and how it can enhance your wellbeing.
What is Abhyanga Massage?
Abhyanga, often simplified as massage, but it is more than just a physical manipulation of the body.
Abhyanga is an artful blend of touch and therapy with medicated herbal oils, which is most of the times part of a group of therapies to nourish/correct imbalances in the body, mind and soul. It involves massaging the entire body with warm herbalized oil tailored to one's body type, skin type for rejuvenation purpose or to treat disease conditions etc. Unlike western massages that focus on manipulating muscles, Abhyanga additionally aims to increase peripheral circulation, mobilize toxins, nourish tissues, and balance the doshas - the bioenergetic forces that govern health according to Ayurveda when it’s administered along with detoxification therapies.
Benefits as a Preventive Medicine
When done regularly, Abhyanga massage alone confers stability, longevity and protection against daily stresses. Benefits include:
Calming the Nervous System: The gentle strokes of Abhyanga soothe the nerves, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
Enhanced Circulation: Abhyanga promotes better blood circulation, ensuring that your body's vital systems receive the nourishment they require.
Inducing Deep Sleep: A well-performed Abhyanga can lead to deep and restful sleep, which is crucial for overall health.
Strengthening the Immune System: Regular Abhyanga sessions enhance your body's defense mechanisms, helping you ward off illnesses.
Slowing Down Aging: The nourishing effects of Abhyanga on the skin can help maintain a youthful appearance.
Preventing Chronic Illnesses: Abhyanga can be a powerful preventive tool, reducing the risk of chronic health conditions.
Increasing Energy and Vitality: It rejuvenates your body, leaving you energized and vitalized.
It also enhances physical appearance by deeply nourishing the skin and is excellent self-care to start the day with.
Abhyanga in our Dr. P. Alikuttys Ayurveda & Modern Hospital Kottakkal and our focus
Abhyanga is prescribed as a therapy for various health conditions including:
Cerebral palsy
Back pain
Arthritis
Sciatica
Fatigue
Insomnia
Post-stroke management
Stress and Anxiety
Skin diseases
Herbal oils tailored to you by our qualified doctors
Medicated herbal oils exert their healing actions like anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxant and nerve tonic effects. Regular sessions can help manage chronic disorders. Examples include the following:
Pinda taila
Sahacharadi taila
Muruvenna taila
Dhanwantaram taila
Ksheerabala taila
Mahanarayana taila
Kottamchukadi taila
Chinchadi taila
For a deeper, more immersive experience, Dr. P. Alikuttys Ayurveda & Modern Hospital Kottakkal offers a therapeutic oasis. With its roots in ancient wisdom and its branches extending into modern wellness, Abhyanga stands as a testament to Ayurveda's enduring relevance in our quest for health in many health conditions where the outcomes are relevant even today.
Why Get Abhyanga Treatments at Dr. P. Alikuttys Ayurveda & Modern Hospital Kottakkal?
At our center, Abhyanga begins with consultation to choose specific oil to your body type, skin etc by our expert doctors followed by warm herbal oil application in smooth, skilled strokes by our skilled therapists. This is followed by a gentle massage over the joints, muscles and vital marma points. After 40-60 minutes, the client showers, leaving a light layer of oil for the skin to absorb.
We customize Abhyanga for each client’s constitution, health status and areas of concern to provide maximum therapeutic benefits. Regular sessions leave one feeling deeply relaxed and rejuvenated in mind and body.
A Natural Way to Improve Your Eyesight and Prevent Eye Diseases