Virechana — Therapeutic Purgation Therapy
Virechana is a classical Panchakarma therapy used to expel excess Pitta Dosha and toxins through controlled purgation. It is a safe and effective method for internal cleansing and liver detoxification under Ayurvedic supervision.
Overview
Virechana is a therapeutic procedure that induces controlled bowel movements using herbal purgatives to eliminate excess Pitta and metabolic toxins from the liver, intestines, and blood. It is a key purification therapy for digestive, skin, and metabolic disorders.
Indications
- Hyperacidity, gastritis, liver disorders
- Skin diseases — psoriasis, eczema, acne
- Chronic constipation and hemorrhoids (non-bleeding)
- Pitta-type headaches, burning sensation, and vertigo
- Metabolic disorders — obesity, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia
Contraindications & Precautions
Common Medicaments
- Trivrit (Operculina turpethum)
- Avipattikar Churna, Aragwadhadi Kashaya
- Castor oil with milk (Eranda Taila + Dugdha)
- Haritaki or Triphala-based formulations
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Purva Karma (Pre-procedure): Snehana (internal oleation) and Swedana (sudation) for 3–5 days.
- Pradhana Karma (Main procedure): On the morning after light food, herbal purgative medicine is given orally.
- Virechana (Purgation phase): Patient experiences multiple bowel evacuations as per tolerance.
- Paschat Karma (Post-procedure): Rest and gradual reintroduction of food (Samsarjana Krama).
Expected Outcomes
After successful Virechana, patients experience improved digestion, clear skin, mental calmness, better appetite, and reduced Pitta symptoms like heat, acidity, and irritability.
Safety & Monitoring
- Conduct under expert Ayurvedic supervision.
- Monitor hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Record frequency and characteristics of stools.
- Stop if severe weakness or dehydration occurs.
Patient Counselling Points
- Follow light diet and avoid heavy meals before therapy.
- Stay calm and hydrated during procedure.
- Follow post-Virechana diet strictly for proper recovery.
After Virechana — Quick Care Tips
- Take complete rest on the day of therapy.
- Start with thin gruels or moong dal soup.
- Avoid spicy, oily, or heavy foods for 3–5 days.
FAQs — Virechana Panchakarma
Is Virechana similar to normal purgation?
No. It’s a controlled and medically guided process aimed at detoxifying the liver, intestines, and blood under supervision.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually 4–6 hours on the procedure day, followed by rest and dietary management for 3–5 days.
Will I feel weak after Virechana?
Mild tiredness may occur temporarily. Proper hydration and diet restore energy soon.
Can Virechana help with skin problems?
Yes, it’s very effective for Pitta-related skin issues like psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
Prepared by Rog Nivaaran Hospital • For educational and clinical use only.
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