About this therapy
Panchakarma is a group of classical Ayurvedic therapies traditionally used for cleansing and rejuvenation. Procedures can include therapeutic oil massage, herbal steam and other treatments.
Which procedures are appropriate, and in what sequence, is decided at consultation.
What to expect
- Classical Ayurvedic procedures
- Sequence planned at consultation
- Guidance on diet during therapy
Ayurvedic therapies we offer
अभ्यङ्ग
Abhyanga · Full body
A full-body massage with warm, herb-infused oil using long, rhythmic strokes.
शिरोधारा
Shirodhara · Forehead
A slow, steady stream of warm herbal oil poured over the forehead while you rest.
शिरोबस्ति
Shiro Vasti · Head
Warm medicated oil is held on the head for a set time inside a fitted cap.
ग्रीवाबस्ति
Greeva Vasti · Neck
Warm medicated oil is pooled over the neck within a ring of herbal dough.
कटिबस्ति
Kati Vasti · Lower back
Warm medicated oil is held over the lower back within a ring of herbal dough.
जानुबस्ति
Janu Vasti · Knees
Warm herbal oil is pooled over the knee joint, followed by gentle massage.
हृद्बस्ति
Hrid Vasti · Chest
Warm medicated oil is held over the centre of the chest in a calm, restful setting.
नाभिबस्ति
Nabhi Vasti · Navel
A gentle therapy in which warm oil is held around the navel area.
उद्वर्तन
Udwartana · Full body
A brisk, upward massage using dry herbal powders instead of oil.
पिझिचिल
Pizhichil · Full body
Warm medicated oil is squeezed over the body from cloth while therapists massage in rhythm.
स्वेदन
Swedana (Herbal Steam) · Full body
Herbal steam, usually after an oil massage, to warm and relax the body.
वमन
Vamana · Panchakarma
A classical panchakarma cleansing procedure, offered only after detailed assessment and under close supervision.
What is panchakarma?
Panchakarma means "five actions" in Sanskrit. In classical Ayurveda it describes a group of cleansing procedures, traditionally vamana, virechana, basti, nasya and raktamokshana, used to help the body let go of accumulated imbalances (doshas) before rejuvenation. In everyday use, the word also covers the preparatory and supportive therapies that go with them, such as oil massage, steam and the local vasti treatments.
Ayurveda is one of the world's oldest recorded systems of health, described in texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, and is recognised in India under the Ministry of Ayush.
The three stages
- Purvakarma (preparation). Internal or external oleation with medicated oil or ghee, oil massage (abhyanga) and herbal steam (swedana) prepare the body.
- Pradhanakarma (main procedure). The main cleansing procedure is chosen for the individual. Not every course includes one, and some are done only under close medical supervision.
- Paschatkarma (after-care). A gradual return to normal food with light, easily digested meals, rest and a steady routine.
Ayurvedic therapies at Arogyam Sutra
The clinic's therapies include abhyanga, shirodhara, shiro vasti, greeva vasti, kati vasti, janu vasti, hrid vasti, nabhi vasti, udwartana, pizhichil, swedana and vamana. Each is described in the list below. Which ones suit you, and in what order, is decided at consultation.
Who may consider it
- People interested in a traditional seasonal cleanse and rest.
- People who want a structured break with a supervised diet and routine.
- People seeking relaxing, supportive therapies such as oil massage and shirodhara, alongside their usual medical care.
Diet and routine during therapy
Expect simple, warm, light meals such as khichdi, early nights, little screen time and no strenuous exercise during an active course. Your consultant will explain what to eat and avoid, and when to return to normal routines.
What the research says
Research on panchakarma as a whole is limited and often small, and most studies are of individual therapies. Oil massage and relaxation therapies are generally safe for most people and many find them deeply calming. Cleansing procedures carry more risk and need careful selection and supervision.
Further reading
Health concerns this may be part of
- Back Pain & Sciatica
- Neck & Shoulder Pain
- Knee & Joint Pain
- Weight Gain & Obesity
- Digestive Problems: Acidity, Bloating & Constipation
Sessions and fees
How many sessions you need, how long each one takes and how often to come are planned at your first consultation, based on your health history and goals. The clinic confirms the fee before your plan starts, and accepts cash, UPI, cards and bank transfer.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a panchakarma course take?
It varies with the therapies chosen and your health. Some people have single therapies such as abhyanga or shirodhara; full courses run over several days. The clinic confirms the plan, duration and fee at consultation.
Can I go to work during panchakarma?
For single relaxing therapies, usually yes. During an active cleansing course, rest is part of the process, so many people plan lighter days. Your consultant will advise you.
Is vamana safe?
Vamana is a strong classical procedure offered only after detailed assessment, to carefully selected people and under close supervision. It is not suitable for many people, including during pregnancy and for those with heart disease or who are weak.
Do you offer residential panchakarma?
Residential and inpatient programmes are arranged after consultation. Please contact the clinic for current availability.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear old, comfortable clothes, as oils can stain. Bring your medical reports and a list of medicines. The clinic provides what is needed for the therapy itself.
Ayurveda Panchakarma Therapies in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Arogyam Sutra is a nature cure and naturopathy clinic in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. Consultations and therapies take place at the clinic, and you can request a time online, call or send a WhatsApp message.
Sector C 9, Library, Near Community Center, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 110070
Get directions +91 99589 11321 · +91 98686 76595Contact page and mapClinic timings
- Monday – Friday
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm · 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm · 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm