Ayurvedic Treatments & Therapies in Kerala
Every programme starts with a physician's consultation — these pages are a reference for what each classical therapy involves, not a fixed menu. Ask on WhatsApp and we'll match you to the right combination.
Panchakarma
Panchakarma — the five classical Ayurvedic purification therapies — is the foundation of any serious therapeut...
Learn more → 45–60 min / sessionAbhyanga
Abhyanga is the foundational Ayurvedic massage — a synchronised, full-body treatment using warm medicated oil ...
Learn more → 45 min / sessionShirodhara
Shirodhara — a slow, continuous stream of warm medicated oil poured across the forehead — is Kerala's best-kno...
Learn more → 60–90 min / sessionPizhichil
Pizhichil is a more intensive relative of Abhyanga — a much larger, continuous volume of warm medicated oil po...
Learn more → 45–60 min / sessionNjavarakizhi
Njavarakizhi uses warm boluses of Njavara — a specific medicinal rice — cooked in milk and herbs, then massage...
Learn more → 45 min / sessionUdwarthanam
Udwarthanam is a vigorous, dry herbal-powder massage applied against the direction of hair growth — used speci...
Learn more → 30–45 min / sessionKati Vasti
Kati Vasti is a highly targeted therapy specifically for the lower back — warm medicated oil is pooled within ...
Learn more → 20–30 min / sessionNasyam
Nasyam is the administration of medicated oil or herbal extract through the nostrils — a classical therapy spe...
Learn more →Treatment questions guests ask most
What's the difference between Abhyanga and Pizhichil?
Abhyanga is a synchronised massage using warm oil applied by two therapists working in rhythm. Pizhichil uses a much larger, continuous volume of warm oil poured and massaged over the body simultaneously — more intensive and typically prescribed for chronic pain or paralysis recovery.
Is Shirodhara safe for people with high blood pressure?
It is generally considered calming and often beneficial for stress-linked hypertension, but any guest with a diagnosed cardiovascular or blood pressure condition should disclose it during consultation so the physician can adjust oil temperature and session length accordingly.
How many sessions of a therapy are usually needed to feel a difference?
Single sessions of Abhyanga or Shirodhara often produce noticeable relaxation immediately, but a therapeutic effect on a specific condition typically needs 7 to 14 consecutive daily sessions as part of a structured programme.
Can I choose just one therapy without a full Panchakarma programme?
Yes — many guests book Abhyanga, Shirodhara or Njavarakizhi as standalone wellness sessions during a shorter trip. A full Panchakarma programme is only needed for deeper therapeutic or disease-specific goals.
What oils are used and can they be customised for allergies?
Oils are chosen based on your dosha and condition — common bases include sesame, coconut and medicated herbal-infused oils. Always disclose any nut, sesame or specific herb allergies during consultation; centres can substitute a suitable base oil.
What should I wear during treatments?
Centres typically provide disposable treatment garments or simple cotton wraps. Bring easy, loose clothing to change into afterwards, since you'll be oiled and may want to shower before dressing normally.
Will I feel sleepy or light-headed after a session?
Some grogginess or deep relaxation is common, especially after Shirodhara or Nasyam. Plan to rest rather than drive, sightsee strenuously, or swim immediately after a session.
Are these treatments suitable for elderly travellers?
Most are, with adjusted intensity and duration — Abhyanga and gentle Njavarakizhi are commonly used for older guests. The physician's consultation will tailor pressure, oil temperature and programme length appropriately.
Not sure which therapy fits your goal?
Tell us your health concern on WhatsApp and we'll match you with the right physician and programme.
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