Thalapothichil Ayurvedic Treatment in Kerala, also known as Shirolepa (anointment to head) is a special treatment in Ayurveda by applying medicated paste on the head of the patient. In Malayalam, ‘thala’ refers to head and pothichil means covering. This traditional Ayurvedic treatment of Kerala, a basically cooling treatment, is considered very effective in the case of various psychosomatic disorders.
The process involves a gentle massage to the head of the patient, made to sit in a comfortable position, with specially prepared medicated oil. An herbal paste is applied over the scalp. The paste is then covered with leaves (plantain or lotus leaf) and cloth. At the end of the procedure, the paste is removed followed by a gentle massage to the head. Tharpanam treatment in Kerala, has acquired great importance by using rich traditional herbs and ointments.
Tharpanam or Tharpan means retention of medicines over the eyes. In this form of medication, the eyes are bathed in medicated oil for 2-10 minutes. The patient is laid on his/her back on a droni and a paste of black gram mixed with lukewarm water that’s prepared in a receptacle and then the medicated oil is poured into the eyes.
Duration of the treatment: 30 minutes to 45 minutes depending on the condition.
Thalapothichil is considered an effective remedy in cases of