A Comprehensive Guide on Elakizhi

The captivating, lush greenery of Kerala is a soothing getaway for many. This land, renowned for its beauty, also holds a closely guarded secret - a treasure passed over generations - the wisdom of centuries-old healing practices. The unique geography of Kerala ensured that it was never invaded, ensuring that the ancient, traditional healing practices were never lost and new ones evolved with time. The rich flora and fauna of Kerala gave the ancient Vaidyas enough options to discover new and effective methods of healing that helped shape the renowned Kerala Panchakarma. Kerala derived its own effective forms of therapies - Elakizhi, Pizchil, Njavaratheppu, and so on - effectively combining Snehana or oleation and Swedana or Fomentation. Instead of just using herbal oils, the Kerala Vaidyas also used herbal leaves, Njavara rice, and whatnot!

In a series of blogs, we will discuss intensely the many healing therapies used in Ayurveda - their benefits, indications, and methods. In this comprehensive blog, we will understand the origin, method, and effects of Elakizhi - the herbal leaf therapy developed by the Vaidyas of Kerala.

What is Elakizhi?

The word “Elakizhi” is a Malayalam word - made up of two words - “Ela” or leaf, and “kizhi” meaning poultice. It is also called “patrapinda sweda”, a modified form of swedana therapy or therapeutic sweating, often used as a preparatory step of Panchakarma. The origins of this therapy can be traced back to ancient Ayurvedic texts, which were modified to address musculoskeletal pain and joint inflammation. The Kerala Vaidyas creatively used the rich diversity of medicinal herbs and perfected this technique over generations. It is a meticulously crafted technique that combines the healing properties of herbal leaves, medicated oil, heat, and gentle massage.

Preparing the Elakizhi

The art of preparing Elakizhi starts with the careful selection of medicinal herbs and additional ingredients that work best for the client. Usually, a mixture of leaves that have Vata-Kapha alleviating properties, like Eranda (Ricinus communis), Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), and Arka (Calotropis gigantea) are used. These leaves are washed and finely chopped. Finally, these leaves are cooked with coconut scrapings, lemon, turmeric, rock salt, and a medicated oil - Dhanwanthara thailam, Sahacharadi Thailam, or Murivenna. An Ayurveda doctor determines the choice of herbs or oils after carefully assessing the patient. When sufficiently cooked, the leaves are tied into poultices in muslin cloth while still warm. A light oil massage is done for about 15 minutes, and the warm poultices are massaged all over the body in seven different positions. The temperature of the poultices is maintained by dipping them in warm oil. Heating the herbs helps improve their therapeutic benefits and also helps in deep relaxation. The sweating caused by the warm poultices helps detoxify and purify the body. The therapy usually lasts about 45 to 60 minutes. After the therapy, rest for a few minutes and follow it up with a bath in warm water to wash away the residual oil.

Who should Undergo Elakizhi?

Elakizhi treatment is recommended for people with musculoskeletal pain. Internal medicines to subside the inflammation might be given to swollen joints first. Elakizhi benefits people with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, spondylitis, sports injuries, back pain, and joint issues. It improves joint mobility and flexibility. It also helps those who want to detox and relax. Elakizhi treatment may also be recommended as a preparatory step for Panchakarma therapy. It is usually done as a session spanning seven to fourteen days or more, per the individual's health condition.

Benefits of Elakizhi

Relieves joint and muscle pain

Elakizhi relieves musculoskeletal pain. The Vata-kapha hara herbal leaves used in Elakizhi help relieve pain and inflammation of joints and sore muscles to provide quick relief. The heat and massage also help release endorphins - the natural pain-relieving chemicals that promote mood and ease pain.

Improves circulation

The warm Elakizhi dilates the blood vessel and improves blood circulation. Improved circulation helps in promoting better oxygenation and functioning of organs.

Improves flexibility

Elakizhi treatment helps relax tense and stiff muscles, improving flexibility. The gentle massage and heat help the muscles relax, increasing the range of movement.

Detoxification

The sweating induced by Elakizhi helps detoxify and improves overall skin health. It also helps stimulate lymphatic drainage.

Stress relief

Elakizhi treatment combines heat, massage, and the soothing aroma of Vatahara leaves, calming the mind. This helps in relieving stress and fatigue.

Also read: Stress Management in Ayurveda: Natural Coping Strategies for Stress

Precautions While Undergoing Elakizhi

Elakizhi treatment is safe for most people. However, it should be performed cautiously in a few situations:

• If you have sensitive skin or have allergies to any herbs, let your doctor know so that they can take appropriate precautions.
• If you have a fever, heat sensitivity, or any kind of infection, it is better to stay away from Elakizhi.
• Elakizhi is not recommended in pregnancy or people with High BP or blood sugar. If you have open wounds or inflammation, you should not undergo Elakizhi.
• As Elakizhi causes sweating, staying hydrated before and after the therapy is necessary. Also, avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight post-Elakizhi therapy.

Which Is The Best Place To Undergo Elakizhi

While undergoing Elakizhi or any other Ayurveda therapy, selecting a place that provides authentic Ayurveda treatments is crucial. Choose a place that offers traditional Kerala treatments and has qualified Ayurvedic physicians and well-trained therapists. They should use quality herbs and oils and ensure proper hygiene. The Centre should provide customized treatment plans tailored to suit your health goals. The doctors should assess your health conditions daily to make necessary changes in your diet and regimen. They should guide you about post-therapy care to help maintain the benefits of Elakizhi.

Kerala Ayurveda has several treatment centers and wellness resorts that provide quality care and help you start your wellness journey. With well-equipped treatment centers, qualified Ayurveda doctors, and trained therapists, Kerala Ayurveda is your go-to solution for quality care. If you want a more immersive experience, visit Ayurvedagram, Bangalore; Ayurvedagram, Bali or The Health Village, Kochi.