04. FOMENTATION THERAPY (SWEDAN)

Fomentation or sweating necessarily follows oelation.

Induced by heat from different sources it brings sweat on the skin through hair follicles by opening the spores of the skin.

Due to fomentation the Agni is increased and the tissue gets mobilized.

While throwing out waste as Aama (toxins) through the skin it also helps liquefy aggravated Doshas, dilating all body channels for the cleansing.

It is divided into two main Types-
1) Agani Sweda – Where in heat is applied directly for steam .
2) Anagni Sweda– Where no external heat source is necessary e.g. Exercise, fighting, walking, lifting heavy loads, exposure to sunlight, stay in centrally heated rooms, putting heavy blankets over the body etc.

Charka has described about Thirteen types of fomentation of which some are in practice now.

Upanaha Sweda– Fomentation by poultice.
Ushma Sweda– Steam Fomentation.
Nadi Sweda– Local steam Fomentation (steam/vapor of medicated decoction of leaves).
Avagah Sweda– Tub bath in warm medicated decoction.
Pizinchil– Pouring of leukwarm oil.

After this therapy patients are advised to go for rest, avoid cold, take warm baths and get adequate fresh air.

Nasal therapy, enema or bloodletting can be undertaken immediately after Fomentation .

Emesis and purgation should be done only after 1 and 2 days of fomentation respectively.

However, care should be taken to ensure that no part of the treatment is missed out on as that would not only reduce efficacy but may even prove detrimental.

Once the body has been correctly and suitably prepared, under supervision of a qualified doctor only should be administering of Panchakarma happen. It is best to depend on a reputed Ayurvedic nursing home and experienced Ayurvedic Doctors.