Ayurvedic Treatments & Remedies

Traditional Ayurvedic therapies, herbs and home recipes. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical care.

Abhyanga (Warm Oil Massage)

Abhyanga (Warm Oil Massage)

Whole-body warm oil massage using sesame or medicated herbal oils to nourish tissues, calm the nervous system, and improve circulation.

Benefits: Improves circulation, Nourishes skin and tissues, Balances Vata dosha, Promotes restful sleep

Ingredients:

  • Sesame oil or medicated herbal oil (e.g., Brahmi oil)
  • Optional: dried herbs for infusion

Procedure: Warm the oil to comfortable temperature. Apply oil generously and perform long rhythmic strokes toward the heart. Spend extra time on joints and areas of tension. After 15–30 minutes, shower or steam gently.

Shirodhara

Shirodhara

Continuous, gentle stream of warm oil on the forehead (third-eye) used to calm the mind and reduce stress.

Benefits: Calms the nervous system, Improves sleep quality, Reduces headache frequency

Ingredients:

  • Warm medicated oil (sesame infused with herbs)

Procedure: Lie supine. A steady stream of warm oil is poured on the forehead for 20–40 minutes followed by a gentle head massage. Performed by trained therapists.

Triphala (Herbal Formula)

Triphala (Herbal Formula)

Three-fruit formula used for gentle digestive support and detoxification.

Benefits: Supports digestion, Gentle detox, Antioxidant properties

Ingredients:

  • Triphala powder 1 tsp
  • Warm water 1 cup

Procedure: Stir 1 tsp Triphala powder into a cup of warm water and drink in the evening; consult practitioner for dosing.

Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)

Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)

A warming, nourishing drink with turmeric for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support.

Benefits: Supports joint comfort, Soothing and warming, Antioxidant support

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • Pinch black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ghee (optional)
  • Honey to taste

Procedure: Heat milk, whisk in turmeric, black pepper, and ghee; simmer 3–5 minutes and sweeten to taste. Drink warm.

Kitchari (Comfort/Detox Meal)

Kitchari (Comfort/Detox Meal)

Balanced, easy-to-digest one-pot meal used in Ayurvedic cleanses: mung dal and rice with spices.

Benefits: Gentle on digestion, Nourishing and balancing, Used during cleanses

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup split yellow mung dal
  • 1/2 cup basmati rice
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ghee
  • 4 cups water
  • Salt to taste

Procedure: Rinse dal and rice. Heat ghee, add cumin and turmeric, add dal, rice and water; simmer until soft. Add vegetables if desired. Serve warm.

Nasya (Nasal Oil)

Nasya (Nasal Oil)

Administration of warmed oil into the nostrils to support sinuses and head region.

Benefits: Clears nasal passages, Supports clarity of mind, Helps with sinus discomfort

Ingredients:

  • Anu oil or sesame oil warmed slightly

Procedure: Lie back with head slightly tilted. Place 2 drops into each nostril and inhale gently. Best under guidance.