Purgation (therapeutic bowel cleansing) is an Ayurvedic detoxification procedure primarily used to eliminate excess Pitta dosha from the body. It works by expelling toxins through controlled loose motions, cleansing the intestines and middle alimentary tract. Beneficial for digestive issues, skin disorders, and Pitta-related conditions, this therapy requires proper preparation and aftercare. Unlike emesis, mild purgation is recommended for healthy individuals as a monthly detoxification practice. The procedure should be performed under proper guidance and is contraindicated in several specific conditions.
What is Purgation? 💫
Purgation refers to the therapeutic expulsion of (waste products) or through the anal route via controlled loose motions. This Ayurvedic cleansing procedure aims to clear the intestines and remove toxins accumulated in the middle part of the alimentary tract.1
Timing Considerations ⏰
Seasonal Timing:
Can be performed throughout the year
Best time: season for most people
Dosha Connection ⚖️
Primary benefit: Considered the best procedure for elimination of excess dosha
Therapeutic Benefits 🌡️
Strengthens sensory and motor organs
Refreshes the brain
Increases digestive fire ()
Stabilizes tissues
Enhances overall body strength
Especially effective for:
Elimination of (undigested food toxins)
, intestinal worms, and flatulence
like dermatitis
Various Pitta-related disorders including:
Inflammations
Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
Migraines
Parasitic conditions
Pre-Purgation Preparation1 🔄
Before the procedure:
Undergo (application of oils)
Undergo fomentation therapy (heat application)
Consume light food the previous night
Note: Purgation should be done on an empty stomach
Purgation Procedure 🧪
Medicinal Purgative Substances1:
Different substances are recommended based on body type (constitution):
For body type: Gandharva Hastadi Avanakenna (25-50 ml)
For Vata-Pitta body type: Nimbamritadi Avanakenna (25-50 ml)
For body type: Avipathi Churna (15-30 gm)
Common option: Castor oil (easily available)
Note: Dosage depends on the state of the alimentary tract, determined by recent bowel movement patterns.
Method1:
Squeeze lime juice on your tongue and inhale the lime's fragrance
Close your nose and quickly drink the medicine
If too thick, mix with half a glass of warm water
Powdered medicine can be mixed with warm water or honey
Drink warm water after taking the medicine
Wait for diarrhea to begin
After each bowel movement, drink some hot water to replenish lost fluids
Continue until there are no more intestinal cramps after drinking hot water, indicating the medicine's effect is complete
Selecting Appropriate Laxatives 🍃
Laxative selection is based on dosha dominance indicated by bowel patterns:
Bowel Type
Dosha
Laxative Strength
Examples of Laxatives
Soft
Pitta dominant
Mild laxatives, low doses
Milk, water, oil, grapes
Moderate
Kapha dominant
Moderate strength
Indian jalap (Nisoth), Indian laburnum (Amaltas)
Hard
Vata dominant
Strong laxatives
Common milk hedge, purging nut (Jatropha curcas)
Post-Purgation Care 🌱
Immediate Measures1:
Take a warm shower after completion
When hungry, eat light, warm, lubricating foods:
Broken grain (like rice) cooked with water and salt
Guidelines for Several Days After1:
Avoid cold drinks and cool substances
Avoid , , or fried foods
Avoid raw foods
Contraindications ❌
Purgation should not be performed in cases of:
Childhood, old age, debility
Inflammation in lower alimentary tract1
Any downward bleeding (including menstruation)1
Emaciation
Soft-natured individuals
Pregnancy or post-delivery period
Stout/obese individuals
Intoxication
First stage of fever
Existing diarrhea
Low digestive fire1
Wounds from weapons
Dry body constitution
Dehydration1
Immediately after emesis
Ulcerative colitis
Uterine prolapse1
Rectal prolapse
Low Agni (digestive fire)1
Signs of Successful Therapy1 🌟
Decrease in all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
Feeling of lightness throughout the body
Purified channels (srotas)
Increased hunger
Additional Benefits1 💪
Cooler and calmer body
Clearer skin
Decreased signs of aging
Complications from Excessive Purgation1 🚫
Excessive diarrhea
Dehydration
Rectal bleeding
Increased Pitta causing inflammation and burning sensations
Increased body dryness and other Vata symptoms (e.g., rectal prolapse)
Tremors and fainting
Signs of Incomplete Purgation1 ⚠️
Persistent feeling of heaviness
Loose toxins causing skin rashes, fever
Abdominal and chest congestion
Excessive secretions from nose and mouth
Follow-up Recommendations1 🔄
If full benefits are not experienced, the procedure can be repeated after 7 days
Should Healthy People Undergo Purgation?1 🤔
Yes - unlike emesis, purgation is recommended for healthy individuals
Monthly mild purgation is recommended as a detoxification practice for everyone from teenagers to elderly
Mild purgation is also beneficial for those suffering from constipation
Emergency Indications1 🚨
In these cases, purgation can be performed without preparatory procedures:
After emesis in cases of poison ingestion
Upward bleeding (mouth, gums, nose, eyes)
, burps, , nausea, or vomiting
Epilepsy, fits, or high fever
Intestinal parasites or worms
High blood pressure
Pitta-type headaches
Excessive anger or frustration
References:
Primary Source: Acharya Balkrishna: A Practical Approach to The Science of Ayurveda - A Comprehensive Guide for Healthy Living - Chapter - Treatment Methods
School of Ayurveda and Panchkarma - Lectures and Notes
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this website are purely informative and educational and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a certified healthcare professional for advice.