Ayurveda basically classifies treatment (chikitsa) into 2 types,
Shodhana chikitsa(Panchakarma) – Detoxifying / Purificatory procedures
Shodana therapy is indicated in conditions where there is bahu dosha (doshas are in large quantity).
It is indicated in conditions where,
- Disease is more severe
- Deep rooted
- Chronic – of long duration
- Patient strength is good
- Not responding to shamana chikitsa
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.