Picchila is the Ayurvedic property of stickiness primarily associated with the Water element. It increases Kapha dosha while decreasing Vata and Pitta. Sticky substances strengthen body tissues and promote healing, but can cause channel blockages and accumulation of waste products. They decrease digestive fire and may create mental unclearness. Examples include plant resins and gums. This property requires careful use to avoid excessive accumulation and stagnation in body channels.
🌟 Definition
Picchila is the property responsible for the stickiness of matter in Ayurvedic science.2
💧 Elemental Association2
Picchila attribute is primarily linked to one element:
Sroto rodha - Creates blockages in body channels 🚫
Impedes circulation of nutrients and waste
Results in imbalances and disease manifestation
Affects microcirculation and tissue perfusion
✨ Key Properties
Decreases digestive fire () 🔥⬇️
Strengthens (body tissues) 💪
Promotes adhesion and heals fractures 🩹
Creates mental unclearness and reduced perception 🧠
Increases vitality and nourishment
Linked to accumulation processes in body2
Provides binding action for tissue repair
Enhances lubrication of joints and organs
💊 Pharmacological Properties
Sandhana - Healing and binding
- Strength promoting
Snigdha - Lubricating and moistening
Guru - Heavy and substantial
Sheeta - Cooling in nature
Kleda - Moisture increasing
🌿 Examples
Plant resins (various tree gums)
Gum arabic (babool gum)
Tragacanth gum (goond katira)
Aloe vera gel (kumari)
Okra (bhindi) - mucilaginous vegetables
Fenugreek seeds (methi) when soaked
Chia seeds and flax seeds
Marshmallow root (althaea)
🏥 Therapeutic Applications
Picchila substances are beneficial for:
Fracture healing and bone repair
Dry cough and respiratory irritation
Gastric ulcers and digestive inflammation
Joint lubrication and arthritis
Wound healing and tissue repair
Dry skin conditions and eczema
Urinary tract inflammation
Weakness and tissue depletion
Should be avoided in:
Weak digestive fire and sluggish metabolism
Excessive Kapha conditions
Respiratory congestion and phlegm
Channel blockages and poor circulation
and weight management issues
Mental dullness and lack of clarity
👤 Manifestation in Kapha-dominant Individuals
Thick, sticky mucus production
Slow, methodical thinking patterns
Strong tissue structure but potential stagnation
Tendency toward congestion and blockages
Good endurance but reduced agility
Loyal, attached personality traits
Difficulty with change and adaptation
⚖️ Balancing Picchila Property
Combine with heating spices to maintain agni
Use tastes to counteract stickiness
Include digestive stimulants like
Balance with , substances when needed
Add (chala) properties to prevent stagnation
💡 Therapeutic Combinations
With heating spices - To prevent digestive slowdown
With bitter herbs - To clear channels and reduce accumulation
With pungent tastes - To balance excessive stickiness
With light substances - To prevent overwhelming the system
With carminative herbs - To maintain proper digestion
🧘 Psychological Effects
May cause mental fogginess and reduced clarity
Increases attachment and emotional stickiness
Reduces quick decision-making ability
Creates resistance to change
Promotes deep bonding but may hinder flexibility
Can lead to stubbornness and rigid thinking
⏰ Optimal Usage Guidelines
Best used in Vata conditions requiring binding and healing
Take with warm water or warming spices
Combine with exercise to promote circulation
Monitor elimination patterns closely
Avoid during acute illness or high ama conditions
Use cyclically rather than continuously for best results
🌡️ Seasonal Considerations
Reduce use in spring (Kapha season) when natural accumulation occurs
More beneficial in autumn/winter when Vata needs grounding
Adjust dosage based on humidity and environmental conditions
Consider individual constitution and seasonal sensitivity
References
Primary Source: Acharya Balkrishna's A Practical Approach To The Science of Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthy Living.
Ayurveda - The Science of Self-Healing - Dr Vasant D Lad - Pg 51
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.