Shirovasti

Shirovasti is considered more of a palliative (Shamana ) treatment that an eliminative (Shodhana) one. The treatment is usually preceded by oleation ( Sheehan ) and sudation ( Swedana).

A leather sleeve of about six to eight inches in length is placed on the shaven head of the patient and a ban (varti) tied around the forehead to keep in place. Kneaded dough is used to line the inside of this sleeve and ensure that it does not leak. Oil is then poured into the sleeve and allowed to remain on the head for a while. The oil commonly used is Ksheerabala or Dhanwantaram, The length of time the oil should be kept there is determined by the severity of the disease. Usually it is up to fifty minutes for diseases caused by severe Vata disorders.

This treatment is prescribed for disorders like facial paralysis, cataract, deafness, earache, insomnia and other diseases that afflict the cranial nerves. Patient is seated in an upright position, and medicinal oil is poured into a leather sleeve of about six to eight inches in length, and kept for some time. .