Panch Karma is the traditional form of detoxification of the body and mind that facilitates rejuvenation. It has been utilized for thousands of years as a method of staying healthy, young and vital.

According to Dr. Mukesh D Jain ,"The value of Panch Karma is that it offers systematic treatment for dislodging and flushing toxins from every cell, using the same organs of elimination that the body naturally employs -- sweat glands, blood vessels, the urinary tract and the intestines."

Panch Karma is unlike any other detoxification program because it is fundamentally designed to remove a different form of toxin. While many toxins exist in our environment which accumulate and harm our bodies, Ayurvedic Panch Karma addresses a special toxin called ama which is formed within our own bodies.

Ama, an auto-toxin is produced from inadequate digestion and metabolism. It has the qualities of stickiness and heaviness. In our bodies it clogs our systems and damages our tissues. It is among the most damaging of forces in our bodies and contributes to disease.

Ayurveda links the occurrence of ama in the body and a weak digestive system to the cause of such chronic conditions such as Chronic Itching, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine headaches, chronic respiratory disease and many other conditions. The process of Panch Karma removes ama and clears the way for the body to re-establish an internal state of balance and harmony.

Ama may be present in the body if there is a coating on the tongue. A normal tongue appears pink throughout, but as ama accumulates in the digestive system, the tongue may appear with a white, yellow, green or gray film over it. In addition, in some cases the body and breath develop a strong odour and the stool becomes dense and sinks to the bottom of the toilet. (According to Ayurveda, the normal stool should float). If you have any of these signs, Panch Karma treatment may be indicated.

The Process of Panch Karma: The therapy begins with proper preparation. This includes several days of a special diet and herbs which begin the process of loosening up the ama and bringing it back to the digestive system for elimination. While the person is eating special foods and taking special herbs, oil and heat therapies are applied. These include the deeply relaxing therapies of Shirodhara, Ayurvedic massage, and Swedana.

During Ayurvedic massage two practitioners perform a choreographed hand dance upon the body. Using oils blended with special herbs, this form of massage specifically loosens up the ama stored in the tissues so that it can move back to the digestive system. Not only is it cleansing, but it is deeply relaxing. Swedana is a full-body steam therapy. Special herbs are fused into the steam and together the heat and herbs dilate the channel systems of the body allowing the stored ama to move back into the digestive system.

Once all of the ama is back in the digestive system, the next phase is to eliminate it from the body. This is achieved by the administration of a purgative to cleanse the small intestine and herbal enemas to cleanse the colon. A special form of cleansing is applied to the sinuses called nasya. Following the application of oil and heat over the sinuses, the herbal oils are administered directly into the nasal passages. This procedure not only eliminates ama but is helpful in the treatment of chronic allergic sinusitis and sinus headaches.

Rejuvenation: With the body clear of toxins and ama, it is much like a clean slate. Now the internal energy of the body can be rebuilt. The rebuilding process strengthens the digestive system and the immune system and entails taking additional special foods and herbs. These herbs are designed to enhance the strength of immune system and are revered for extending life.

The end result of Panch Karma is an optimally functioning digestive system and renewed internal energy. After receiving Panch Karma the mind is light and clear, the body is pure and the energy is high. For many it is a life-changing experience.

Dr. Mukesh D Jain, director of the Sanjivani Wellness Centre Bhilai says that Panch Karma & Rasayana therapies are useful in the prevention of serious ailments of modern days. One week Panch karma program is more useful and economical to yearly health insurance.