In this treatment, warm oil falls in a continuous flow on the forehead from a pot positioned above the head. The substance used could be medicated oil, buttermilk or some herbal decoction. The individual is made to lie on his back below a pot hung at a specific height.
This rhythm of the flow of oil on the forehead relaxes the mind; releases pent up stress and eliminate toxins. The person experiences a blissful state of total peace and serenity. This treatment lasts for thirty to forty minutes.
Shirodhara is advised for people with mental stress. It offers natural and therapeutic relief for all neurological disorders. The simplicity of the therapy is that it treats the disease at the root level and rejuvenates the person. The entire process culminates in the person feeling a profound sense of peace and calm.
Shirodhara has been used to treat a variety of conditions including eye diseases, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, hair loss, greying of hair, neurological disorders, memory loss, insomnia, hearing impairment, tinnitus, vertigo, Meniere's disease and certain types of skin diseases like psoriasis. Studies report that Ayurvedic Shirodhara is a safe option to improve sleep quality among people who have sleep problems.
Shirodhara is also effective in treating mental conditions such as anxiety, and mental stress. The calming effect produced by Shirodhara is similar to that obtained with meditation. There are specialized forms of Shirodhara called Ksheeradhara, Thakradhara, Taildhara and Jaladhara.
Shirodhara involves pouring of warm herbal oils on the head. However, it may begin with a full body massage known as Abhyangam. Shirodhara also involves a head massage. Shirodhara is thought to work by relaxing the hypothalamus in the brain. It can also normalize the functions of hormones that regulate sleep and emotions.
Shirodhara is a treatment in which the medicated liquids are poured in streams over the head of the patient (healthy people can also undergo) for a stipulated amount of time. The treatment is carried out for 2-3 weeks (depending on the condition of the disease and diseased).
