Abstract

Panchakarma a specialty of Kayachikitsa (Internal Medicine) presents a unique approach of Ayurveda with specially designed five procedures of internal purification of the body through the nearest possible route. Such purification allows the biological system to return to homeostasis and to rejuvenate rapidly and also facilitates the desired pharmacokinetic effect of medicines administered thereafter. Panchakarma provides a comprehensive therapy role as a promotive, preventive, curative & rehabilitative procedure. Panchakarma is not merely bio-purificatory therapy as it is understood, but also has wider range of therapeutics such as replenishing, depleting, rejuvenating therapies etc. Panchakarma, a comprehensive, and an integral part of Ayurvedic treatment and have its role in every therapeutic condition. Due to its long lasting and radical relief of chronic diseases, it is now developing globally. But Panchakarma, the purification therapy expounded in Ayurveda is perhaps the most misunderstood of all the Ayurveda practices. Due to ignorance, it is often perceived as just another system of oil massage. In today's world more and more people are falling victim to the adverse effects of stress and anxiety, which is leading to diseases like improper digestion, lack of sleep, allergies, heart diseases, diabetes, chronic fatigue, cancer, osteoporosis etc. These diseases are caused mainly due to deep seated toxins. Panchakarma eliminates these toxins from the body, allowing permanent healing of tissues and channels and thus normalizes digestion, and mental functions. In this article the scientific and evidence based review of Panchakarma has been done.