Kizhi

Kizhi is a renowned Ayurvedic treatment that utilizes herbal poultices to address various health conditions. The word “Kizhi” translates to “bundle” in Malayalam, referring to the cloth bags filled with medicinal herbs, leaves, powders, or rice used in this therapy. The poultices are heated in herbal oils and applied to specific areas of the body, facilitating localized sweating and promoting the absorption of herbal properties. The therapeutic heat and active herbal ingredients work together to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and enhance blood circulation. Kizhi is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal disorders, arthritis, sports injuries, and certain neurological conditions. This treatment is performed by trained therapists who customize the herbal ingredients based on the patient’s specific needs, ensuring optimal therapeutic benefits.

In podikizhi, the poultice is made with medicinal powders and is used for sudation. Podikkizhi helps in opening up the channels in the body and thereby increases blood circulation. This helps in reducing the inflammations caused by arthritis, muscular spasm, and rheumatism. It is also recommended for relieving stress and body stiffness.

Elakizhi is another form of sudation technique in which herbal leaves are freshly collected, chopped, and processed to make a poultice. It is applied either on the whole body or a specific area after anointing the site with oil, which helps in reducing the inflammation and pain.

Navarakizhi is a specialized Kizhi treatment where small cotton bags filled with Navara rice (a unique variety of rice) cooked in herbal decoctions and milk are used. The heated Navara rice bags are gently massaged over the body, focusing on joints and muscles. This treatment helps in promoting muscle strength, reducing joint pain, and rejuvenating the body. Navarakizhi is especially beneficial for individuals with arthritis, muscle weakness, and certain neurological disorders.

Ennakizhi involves the use of medicinal leaves and herbs in the poultices. The herbs are chosen based on their therapeutic properties and are usually heated with medicated oils. Ennakizhi helps in relieving pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the affected areas. It is particularly effective for managing conditions like back pain, joint problems, and sports injuries.

Manjakizhi utilizes a special type of rice called Manjal (turmeric) rice in the poultices. The rice is cooked with milk and herbal decoctions before being tied in cloth bags. The heated Manjal rice bags are then applied to the body to reduce inflammation, promote blood circulation, and enhance skin health. Manjakizhi is beneficial for skin conditions, arthritis, and musculoskeletal ailments.

Mamsakizhi involves the use of poultices containing meat or meat-based products. The poultices are usually made with cooked meat, herbs, and medicinal pastes. This treatment is primarily used for muscular pain, joint disorders, and conditions involving muscular wasting. Mamsakizhi helps in nourishing the muscles, promoting tissue repair, and improving muscle strength.

Thechipoo Thengapal Kizhi is a unique and traditional Ayurvedic treatment that incorporates medicinal flowers and coconut milk in the poultices. The flowers are chosen for their therapeutic benefits and are combined with coconut milk and other herbal ingredients. The heated poultices are then applied to the body, offering a gentle and soothing experience. This treatment helps in reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and rejuvenating the body and mind.