Ayurveda basically classifies treatment (chikitsa) into 2 types,

Shodhana (Panchakarma) – Detoxifying / Purificatory procedures
Shamana – Palliative treatments

Shamana chikitsa / Palliative treatments

Shamana therapy is indicated in conditions where there is alpa dosha (doshas in small quantity).

It is indicated in conditions where,

Disease is less severe,

Not deep routed,

Acute – recent origin,

Patient strength is not good,

In children (generally < 8 yrs), old aged (generally above 70 yrs) & in pregnant women where shodana (purificatory procedures) is contra – indicated,

After shodana to treat the remaining doshas.

Medicines used in Shamana chikitsa

Kashaya (decoctions / concoctions)

Churna (powders)

Vati (tablets)

Arishta & Asava (fermented preparations)

Lehya (linctus)

Ghrutas (ghee preparations)

Tailas (oil preparations)

Lepas (ointments)

Bhasmas etc.,

Presently neo – formulations are also available in Ayurveda like syrups, granules, lotions, ointments, gels etc.