Ayurveda basically classifies treatment (chikitsa) into 2 types,

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

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.