Pizhichil Ayurvedic treatment Alternative medicine

Pizhichil is a special form of Ayurvedic treatment that combines rich oil massage with a special heat treatment. This therapy is known as the “King’s Treatment” due to its popularity with the Maharajas of ancient India. During this indulgent treatment 20 liters of medicated and warmed Ayurvedic oil is continuously poured over the body while two practitioners rub and stimulate the skin using hands and special cotton cloths. The process is performed with the person both lying down and while sitting in a chair specially designed for the purpose of applying medicated oils. This is a highly rejuvenating treatment that enhances muscular tone and retunes the entire nervous system. It comes as a package in itself – a course of 10 days is necessary to gain its maximum healing potential.

The meaning of the word Pizhichil is squeezing and the procedure involves squeezing of the warm and heated oil from a cloth. However, the first step in Pizhichil usually starts with applying oil on the head and body of the person receiving the massage. Then a cloth is placed or tied over the forehead so that the oil poured on the head does not enter the eyes. The oil that is used in Pizhichil can be varied ranging from sesame oil to ghee to other types of thailams which are made by combining various herbal oils. The type of Ayurvedic oil used on a person depends on his or her medical conditions and requirements.