Everything you need to know about Shirodhara traditional Ayurvedic therapy

Shirodhara – a traditional Ayurvedic ritual for health and well-being

Due to the increasing interest in Shirodhara, we’ve observed numerous misunderstandings and questions from our beloved friends. In today’s article, we would like to shed light on Shirodhara, discovering its benefits, contraindications, and clear out common misconceptions.

Shirodhara is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that originated in India and has been practiced for centuries. The word Shirodhara is derived from the Sanskrit words „Shiro”, meaning head, and „Dhara”,  meaning stream/flow. In this therapeutic procedure, a continuous and gentle stream of warm oil is poured over the forehead, specifically targeting the „third eye” region. The most commonly used oils for Shirodhara are coconut or sesame oil mixed with specific herbs chosen by the physician according to each individual.

Liquid stream of health – how does Shirodhara therapy work?

The individual undergoing Shirodhara must first have a consultation with a physician to determine if the treatment is suitable for them. If yes, the physician will provide a list of indications to follow throughout the process. The duration of the treatment is also determined by the physician. According to ancient texts, the duration varies from patient to patient, ranging from a minimum of 3 days up to 5 days. Throughout each day, the session durations gradually increase, starting from 15/20 minutes and reaching a maximum of 30/35 minutes.

Commonly, Shirodhara is not prescribed as an individual treatment but is often combined with other Ayurvedic treatments such as Nasya (Nasal oleation), Kavala (herbal mouthwash), Duma Pana (Herbal smoke inhalation), or as part of the Panchakarma detoxification program.

For the actual treatment the patient lies on a comfortable massage table with his eyes closed and ears covered while the therapist adjusts the temperature and flow of the oil. The warm oil flows in a rhythmic and steady manner, inducing a deep state of relaxation. The therapy is designed to calm the nervous system, balance the mind, and promote a sense of tranquility.

Relaxation and relief – how does Shirodhara work?

Shirodhara is renowned for its potential to alleviate stress, anxiety, mental fatigue and sleeping problems. It is believed to harmonize the flow of vital energy (prana) in the body, promoting overall well-being. Additionally, this Ayurvedic treatment is thought to have benefits for the hair and scalp, thanks to the nourishing properties of the oils used in the process.

After the treatment, it is advisable for the patient to avoid exposure to cold temperatures and wind, as this may lead to headaches, colds, or sinus issues. Therefore, it is always recommended to protect the head with a scarf or a winter beanie. Consuming warm foods and drinking warm water or tea also aids in maintaining internal warmth within the body.

The secrets of Shirodhara – it’s not just relaxation therapy

Unfortunately, more and more frequently, we observe the introduction of this treatment in massage centers and spas. It is crucial to remember that Shirodhara is not merely a relaxation treatment and, if performed improperly, may have negative effects on the body. Therefore, it is highly important to undergo the treatment under the supervision of a professional Ayurvedic doctor and therapist. Like any other treatment, Shirodhara has specific contraindications that need emphasis. For instance, Shirodhara should be particularly avoided during pregnancy, migraines, headaches, high blood pressure, after any kind of surgery, following a recent stroke, or in the presence of fever, flu, or sinus problems.

Therefore to experience a proper Shirodhara, we highly recommend undergoing this procedure only in specialized centers and under the supervision of professional Ayurvedic doctors.

We hope that this article has addressed all your curiosity and questions regarding Shirodhara. If you are interested in the Shirodhara treatment, we at Ceylon Ayurveda offer this service. However, as we are committed to providing authentic and high-quality treatments, Shirodhara is exclusively available as part of our Panchakarma program. 

The text was prepared by Dr. Dhananji