Vamana — Therapeutic Emesis Therapy
Vamana is one of the principal Panchakarma therapies designed to eliminate excess Kapha Dosha from the body through controlled and medicated emesis (therapeutic vomiting). It purifies the upper gastrointestinal tract and restores systemic balance.
Overview
Vamana Karma is a detoxification therapy that aims to cleanse the stomach and upper digestive tract by inducing vomiting using specific herbal preparations. It primarily targets Kapha-related disorders like respiratory, skin, and metabolic diseases.
Indications
- Chronic cold, cough, sinusitis, bronchitis
- Asthma and other Kapha-dominant respiratory disorders
- Obesity, hyperlipidemia, and metabolic sluggishness
- Psoriasis, eczema, and Kapha-type skin diseases
- Indigestion and heaviness after meals
Contraindications & Precautions
Common Medicaments
- Madana Phala (Randia dumetorum)
- Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
- Vacha, Saindhava, and honey-based mixtures
- Warm milk or herbal decoctions as vehicles
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Purva Karma (Pre-procedure): Snehana (internal oleation) and Swedana (fomentation) for 3–5 days.
- Pradhana Karma (Main procedure): Early morning on an empty stomach, Kapha-increasing food or milk is given followed by emetic herbs.
- Vamana: Patient is encouraged to vomit until the appearance of Pitta, indicating successful cleansing.
- Paschat Karma (Post-procedure): Rest and gradual diet restoration (Samsarjana Krama).
Expected Outcomes
After successful Vamana, patients experience lightness in chest and body, improved digestion, clearer breathing, better skin, and mental clarity. It is considered a vital therapy for Kapha-predominant diseases.
Safety & Monitoring
- Conduct under professional supervision only.
- Check vitals before, during, and after procedure.
- Hydration and electrolyte balance must be maintained.
- Stop if excessive vomiting or weakness occurs.
Patient Counselling Points
- Follow prescribed diet before and after therapy.
- Stay relaxed and cooperative during procedure.
- Avoid cold, heavy, and oily foods post-therapy.
After Vamana — Quick Care Tips
- Take rest and maintain hydration.
- Begin light liquid diet; advance gradually.
- Report excessive weakness or dizziness immediately.
FAQs — Vamana Panchakarma
Is Vamana safe?
Yes, when performed by qualified Ayurvedic physicians. It is always preceded by preparation to ensure safety.
Will I feel weak after the procedure?
Mild fatigue may occur for a few hours. Proper diet and rest restore energy quickly.
How often should Vamana be done?
Usually once a year or as prescribed based on Kapha aggravation and health status.
Can Vamana help in skin disorders?
Yes, it’s highly effective for Kapha-Pitta type skin conditions like psoriasis and acne.
Prepared by Rog Nivaaran Hospital • For educational and clinical use only.
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