Ayurvedic Treatments
Upanaham
A warm herbal poultice bandage is wrapped around painful joints, delivering sustained healing through the night while you rest.
Upanaham is a traditional Ayurvedic bandaging therapy where a warm, medicated herbal paste is applied to the affected area and then wrapped securely with medicinal leaves and cotton cloth. The poultice is left in place for several hours or overnight, allowing the herbs to work continuously and deeply. This treatment is based on the Ayurvedic principle of sustained oleation and fomentation. By keeping the medicated paste in prolonged contact with the affected tissues, Upanaham delivers a deeper, more lasting therapeutic effect than single-session treatments. It is particularly valued in Kerala Ayurvedic tradition for stubborn joint conditions. During the application, the therapist carefully layers the warm paste over the affected joints, covers it with plantain or castor leaves, and secures the wrap. The warmth and gentle compression create an immediate sense of comfort. As the herbs work over the following hours, you will feel a gradual easing of stiffness and pain.
Key Benefits
Sustained therapeutic action over several hours
Deeply relieves joint pain and morning stiffness
Reduces swelling in arthritic joints
Improves joint mobility and flexibility
Strengthens bones and connective tissue
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the condition and your practitioner's recommendation. For acute conditions, the bandage may be kept on for 4-8 hours or overnight. For milder conditions, 2-3 hours may be sufficient.
While most commonly used for joints, Upanaham can also be applied to the lower back, neck, and other areas affected by pain and inflammation.
If applied to the knee or ankle, you can walk gently, though rest is recommended for maximum benefit. The bandage is secure and comfortable enough for normal movement.
