Ayurveda has a range of classical and genuine ayurvedic therapies and one of them is Choorna Pinda Sweda. Also known as Podikkizhi in Kerala, Choorna Pinda Swedana is one of the most respectable sudation therapies (Swedana).
- Choorna means powdered herbs
- Pinda means bolus or bundle
- Sweda means sweating or inducing sweating or perspiration
Hence, Choorna Pinda Sweda is a therapeutic massage treatment using warm bundles with herbal powders that helps in healing several chronic ailments.
Also, it is a full-body therapy performed after gentle oil application (Abhyangam), where the heated bundles are rhythmically pressed of herbal medicines, oil therapy, and sweating, making it one of the most powerful detoxifying therapies in Ayurveda.
The Uniqueness of Podikkizhi
Unlike ordinary massages, Podikkizhi does not only relax the muscles but also helps in healing the ailments from the roots. Which is why, this classical Panchakarma treatment is considered as one of the complete therapies for pain, relief, detoxification, and rejuvenation. It also –
Stimulates Metabolism | Removes Deep-Seated Toxins (Amas) | Relieves Stiffness and Pain | Improves Skin Tone and Vitality | Balances Aggravated Vata & Kapha Doshas
Line of Podikkizhi Treatment at VVAC
| Purva Karma (Preparation): A complete ayurvedic consultation and examination is done by our well-trained and experienced Ayurvedic doctors (Nadi Parikshan). Before Patra Pinda Sweda, the body is prepared with a Abhyangam (ayurvedic oil) massage, using dosha-specific medicated oils. Then, herbal powders are selected based on the health concern (anti-inflammatory, analgesic, detoxifying, or nourishing). |
| Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure): To begin with the treatment, the powders are tied into cotton cloth bundles (Kizhi). Further, these bundles are heated in medicated oils or roasted as per requirement, till they are hot. The therapist applies the warm bundles over the entire body using rhythmic strokes. Special focus is given to affected areas like joints, back, neck, and shoulders. Usually, this therapy lasts for 40-60 minutes |
| Paschat Karma (Post-Care): After the treatment, the health seeker rests for a while. Herbal warm water is served to sip and a prescribed sattvic meal is recommended to support the detoxification process. |
Key Ingredients in Choorna Pinda Sweda
The herbal powders used in the treatment are chosen on the basis of the condition. Some of the common ingredients include:
- Rasnadi Choornam
- Kolakulathadi Choornam (Horse Gram Powder)
- Jatamayadi Choornam
- Kottamchukkadi Choornam
- Eranda (Castor), Devadaru (Cedar), Rasna
- Turmeric, Dry Ginger, Rock Salt
Types of Podikkizhi (Based on Heating Medium)
1) Taila Podikkizhi – The bundles filled with herbal powder are heated in medicated oil (Best known for pain, stiffness, arthritis)
2) Kashaya Podikkizhi – Bundles dipped in herbal decoctions (Treats inflammation and swelling)
3) Dry Podikkizhi – Powders are roasted without oil (obesity and Kapha-related disorders)
Health Benefits of Choorna Pinda Sweda
Podikkizhi is widely recommended in both curative and rejuvenative aspects of Ayurveda. It’s major benefits include –
- Pain Relief – PPS instantly reduces joint, muscle, and back pain
- Improves Blood Circulation – This classical Panchakarma therapy enhances blood and lymphatic flow.
- Removes Accumulated Ama – Sweda induced by the treatment expels impurities through skin.
- Improves Flexibility & Mobility – Rejuvenates and strengthens muscles and joints.
- Aids in Weight Management – Dry Podikkizhi is effective in reducing excess Kapha and fat deposits.
- Skin Benefits – Improves texture, glow, and reduces cellulite.
- Strengthens Nervous System – Relaxes nerves, reduces stress and fatigue.
- Balances Imbalanced Doshas – Mainly pacifies Vata and Kapha Dosha imbalance.
Ailments – When is Podikkizhi Recommended?
Arthritis (Sandhigata Vata, Amavata, Rheumatoid Arthritis) | Cervical Spondylosis | Lumbar Spondylosis | Sciatica, Frozen Shoulder, Tennis Elbow | Muscle Stiffness, Spasma, Cramps | Sports Injuries, Sprains, Strains | Obesity and Cellulite | General Fatigue and Body Ache | Neuromuscular Disorders
Why Podikkizhi at VVAC is Unique
At Vaidyaratnam Vrindavan Ayurveda Chikitsalayam, Patra Pinda Sweda is not just a relaxation massage but it is a classical ayurvedic treatment. What makes this treatment at VVAC different is –
– Personalized Therapy: Powders and medicated oils used in the treatment are chosen based on the type of health concern and dosha imbalance.
– In-House Preparation (Kashayapura): There is in-house preparation of herbal powders from fresh, genuine ingredients.
– Keraliya-Trained Therapists: Senior doctors, therapists, and paramedical staff are well-trained and have vast experience in ayurvedic treatments.
– Comprehensive care includes prescribed organic diet, lifestyle guidance, yoga and physiotherapy that support recovery.
– All ayurvedic and naturopathy treatments are empaneled under CGHS, Haryana Government, CAPF, and private health insurance for accessibility.
