CLINICAL EFFICACY OF ABHYANGA - A CONCEPTUAL STUDY

In Ayurveda, Abhyanga comes under the type of therapy called Snehana. It involves the application of oil with specific motions from the head to the toe with Dosha-specific, warm herb-infused oil. The oil is commonly premixed with herbs for specific conditions. It offers a range of benefits for the mind and body. It nourishes the body, prevents invasion by pacifying Vatadosha, and promotes strength in the body. Abhyanga can be done as a step of Panchakarma therapy as Poorvakarma (Pre–treatment) or Pradhana karma(main therapy). Ayurveda explains that herbal oil contains oil and water-soluble medicinal principles. These medicinal principles enter through the skin pores, become available for absorption at the end part of blood vessels called Srotas, and get absorbed into the blood, reach the target area, and exhibits their action. Hence our Acharya described Abhyanga in a very scientific, elaborate manner with definitions to timing, and duration of Abhyanga, indications and contraindications, and its effect on the body. Abhyanga with oil on a daily basis is not only beneficial to the skin but beneficial to the body. Hence, this study intends to discuss the details of Abhyanga from Ayurveda and modern points of view.