Patra Pinda Swedana (පත්‍ර පින‍්‍්ඬ ස‍‍්වෙීදන) (Leaf bolus steam)

 In Ayurveda, Swedana or fomentation is a treatment procedure that involves inducing sweat in an individual by heat application in the form of steam or other heated medicaments. As the body starts sweating in the Swedana treatment, stiffness, heaviness, and coldness are eliminated.

Pinda Sweda is a common form of Swedana in which the medicaments are tied up in a cloth and used for the therapy. In Patra Pinda Sweda, leaves of medicinal plants and other drugs are tied up in the cloth and applied to the body while frequently heating it. Also called Ela Kizhi, the treatment is usually done after a light oil massage or Abhyanga; it offers relief in diseases related to bones, muscles, and nerves.

For Patra Pinda Sweda Ayurvedic treatment, the following medicinal leaves are generally used.

Eranda (Ricinus communis)

Nirgundi (Vitex negundo)

Arka (Calotropis gigantean)

Chincha (tamarind)

Dhatura (Dhatura metal)

Shigru (moringa leaves)

Other ingredients that may also be used are lemon, coconut grating, Saindhava Lavana, Methika, Rasnadi churna, etc. For the procedure, fresh leaves are collected and cut down into small pieces. They are then heated in a non-stick pan in an herbal oil, along with other ingredients. After the mixture is fried, it is tied in a clean cloth to form a bolus of Patra Pinda.

The heating apparatus is maintained at a constant temperature, and the bolus is frequently dipped in the warm oil while rubbing the body with mild pressure. The fomentation given in Patra Pinda Sweda therapy is carried out in seven postures like that of Abhyanga massage so that all the parts of the body are equally fomented.

The fomentation lasts for 5-10 minutes in each posture. A uniform temperature of the bolus is maintained throughout the procedure by dipping it in the heated mixture of medicated decoction and milk.

The procedure completes after sweating is induced. After that, Rasnadi Churna is applied to the individual and they are advised to take rest for an hour and bathe with warm water. A light diet after the procedure is recommended.

Patra Pinda Sweda is beneficial for the following conditions.

Spondylosis

Spondylitis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoporosis

Back pain or body ache

Cramps

Sports injuries

Paralysis

Myalgia

Neuralgia

Sciatica

Chronic pains

Rheumatoid arthritis

Post-traumatic dysfunctions

Contraindications: When It Should Be Avoided?

 

People with skin allergies are not recommended to undergo Patra Pinda Sweda therapy.

It is not recommended for people with sensitive skin as well because symptoms like redness and itching may develop due to the application of heat.

Fomentation should be avoided on the parts that have an acute inflammation.

Patra Pinda Sweda is contraindicated for pregnant women and people with diabetes.

Other conditions where it is contraindicated are certain cardiac problems, hemorrhagic disorders, indigestion, fractures, acute illness, and extreme fatigue.

 

Patra Pinda Sweda Benefits

 

Delays the age-related degeneration of joints

Improves the range of movements of the joints

Prevents water retention in the joints

Improves blood circulation in the body

Soothes the nerves and offers relief from neuralgic pain caused by nerve disorders

Helps to eliminate toxins from the body through sweatin

Improves the sensory and motor functions in people with paralysis