Podikizhi (kizhi) is a natural treatment and is one of the most popular treatments in Ayurveda. Kizhi is a fomentation (swedana) treatment.
In Ayurveda there are many varieties of kizhi treatments that are used. Depending on the patient’s dosha predominance and disease the Ayurveda doctor will decide upon the ingredients of kizhi and which type of kizhi treatment will be suitable.
Podikizhi is where warm herbal powders are placed in a special cotton cloth and tied up. The ingredients of the herbal powder will vary from patient to patient according to chronicity of disease, intensity of pain, dosha predominance and prakruthi of patient. An abhyanga (body massage) is usually recommended prior to embarking on a Podikizhi treatment.
Podikizhi is an effective treatment to reduce the tenderness, pain, stiffness and heaviness of affected body parts or joints. It improves the circulation, movements of joints, effective in releasing a trapped nerves, reduce swelling etc. A fantastic treatment for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, cervical spondylosis, frozen shoulder, osteoarthritis, tennis elbow, back pain and sciatica.
The herbal powders used are warmed in a frying pan and then placed in a cotton cloth and made up in a bolus form. After a gentle massage to the affected body part the kizhi is rhythmically massaged in a continuous manner. The treatment is typically 25mins (if part of body) or up to 50mins if it is full body. For the treatment to be effective the treatment is recommended to be done over a continuous time period as per the direction of the Ayurveda doctor.
It is important, during and after the treatment that patients take on board the advice given. The advice will vary according to the condition of the patient. Typically, patient must avoid cold, spicy food, fizzy drinks and it is recommended that patients keep themselves warm.
