The term Panchakarma literally means "five actions". In Ayurveda this means the five detox procedures. All of these ensure that foreign toxins and pathogens are eliminated from the body. The term "purging" is also sometimes used. This body purification process also restores the doshas to their natural equilibrium. The cleansing treatment is usually accompanied by oil applications, massage, therapeutic steam baths and Ayurveda compliant meals.

At the start of the Ayurvedic diagnosis the doctor will ascertain the patient's dosha constitution. This forms the foundation for working out a therapy plan and for choosing the correct herbs and medication. Ayurvedic physicians have various tools at their disposal for diagnosing the prevailing constitution. A first indication is given simply by the patient's external appearance as well as by the initial medical consultation. By using the Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis (Nadi Vigyan), the doctor can obtain additional information about the dosha constellation. The condition of the patient's organs and any possible disorders can also be diagnosed. Ayurvedic tongue diagnosis helps the doctor detect any imbalance in the doshas as well as potential digestive problems. Only a detailed diagnosis by an experienced Ayurvedic doctor can identify the dosha constitution and enable correct treatment.

Panchakarma therapy makes use of a range of different Ayurvedic treatments. All of these, in different ways, serve to cleanse the body, mind and spirit. These treatments are fundamentally different not only in terms of the nature of the detox, but also in terms of the herbs and oils used, which are blended specially for each individual constitution (dosha). We have compiled a select list of the most important Panchakarma treatments for you here.

Panchakarma treatment can be pretty demanding both physically and mentally. Consequently, it is not something to be entered into at any time. In fact, for some people it is entirely inappropriate. For instance, for children due to the fact that they are still growing. In addition, anyone who feels physically weak or who is dealing with the after-effects of an illness or operation should postpone this kind of treatment – or even reconsider it completely. Sometimes it is possible to gradually prepare a weakened organism for Panchakarma treatment by means of a series of other Ayurvedic therapies.

It is important to note that a complete Panchakarma therapy requires a lot of time and cannot be implemented alongside normal, everyday life. At best, it may be possible to incorporate the preparation phase into your everyday routine. For the majority of the treatment with the different purging therapies, you will definitely need to be fully dedicated to the treatment process.