Abstract

CONCEPT ON UPANAHA SWEDA- A REVIEW ARTICLE

*Dr. Shwetha M. S. and Dr. Veena G. Rao

ABSTRACT

Sweda means sweat & therapy in which the perspiration produced is known as Swedana. It can be done as Poorvakarma, Pradhana Karma and Paschat Karma. Acharya Charaka included Swedana Karma under Shadvidopakrama. It is an independent therapeutic measures for the management of many diseases particularly those of Vata and Kapha Dosha origin. Upanaha is one among the types of Swedana Karma as explained by many Acharyas. Upanaha is a mode of fomentation given by applying warm herbal paste over the affected part of the body followed by bandaging. It is an ideal topical treatment and well known ayurvedic topical application to get evolved and adapt with changing time and easy practice, without changing its efficacy. Pradeha, Sankara/Pinda sweda, Bandhana are three varieties of Upanaha. It helps in reducing Vatadosha, Sheetha(coldness), Shoola (pain), Sthambha (stiffness), Gowravata (heaviness). It induces sweating and brings Doshavilayana. Sweda helps in Gatravinamana (increase the flexibility). Hence the present article is an attempt to review the concept of Upanaha sweda which are mentioned in our classics.

Keywords: Upanaha, Topical application, Bandaging.