KIZHI –
A traditional Ayurvedic heat therapy that uses warm medicated pouches filled with herbs, leaves, powders, or rice to relieve joint pain, reduce inflammation, and relax muscles.
Kizhi treatment is included in Kalari marma massage. It is also included in Ayurvedic massage when required for pain relief.
Kizhi means poultice in Malayalam, the language of Kerala, and Pinda Sweda in Sanskrit.
The kizhi is densely packed with herbal ingredients. It is heated in herbal oil and massaged over the affected area or the whole body as required.
The targeted heat of the kizhi promotes the deeper absorption of the herbal properties. It also warms up and relaxes the tissues, allowing for deeper massage work to be done.
The kizhi ingredients, herbalised oils and massage techniques are chosen for the type and cause of your pain.
BENEFITS:
- Reduces pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
- Improves blood circulation and oxygen supply to the tissues.
- Enhances the immune system and prevents diseases.
- Detoxifies the body and removes toxins and impurities.
- Relaxes the nervous system and calms the mind.
- Improves skin complexion and texture.
- Delays the signs of aging and rejuvenates the body.
TYPES OF KIZHI–
Njavarakizhi
Njavara is a medicinal rice. In njavara kizhi, njavara rice is cooked with cow’s milk and herbal decoctions. The prepared rice is tied into a kizhi bag and massaged over the body. This therapy is particularly effective in strengthening muscle tissues, improving overall body tone, and enhancing athletic performance.
Elakizhi
In Elakizhi, a mixture of herbal leaves is sautéed in oil, tied into a kizhi, and used to massage the body. The kizhi is dipped in warm herbal oil throughout the massage process, providing relief from pain and stiffness. The oil in which kizhi is dipped varies from person to person and from disease to disease. This treatment is beneficial for conditions like arthritis, spondylosis, and muscle pain.
Podi Kizhi or Choornapindaswedam
Podi Kizhi involves the use of powdered herbal leaves, which are mixed with herbal oils and tied into a kizhi. The affected area is massaged with the kizhi for about 60 minutes. This therapy is ideal for treating conditions such as rheumatic arthritis (with or without inflammation), spondylosis, swelling, backaches, paralysis, and long-term muscle injuries.
Naranga Kizhi
In this type, lemon (naranga) is the primary ingredient. The lemon is cut and fried in a mixture of herbal oils and powders, then tied in a cloth bag. The kizhi is dipped in warm oil and massaged over the affected areas. Naranga Kizhi is particularly useful for relieving joint and muscle pain. Here also, oil is selected based on the patient’s condition.
Each of these Kizhi treatments is designed to meet specific therapeutic needs, making them a vital part of Ayurvedic pain management.
