Shirolepam (Thalapothichil)
‘shiras’-‘head’ and ‘lepam’-‘application of paste’. Shirolepam is a procedure wherein application of medicated paste over the head is done. It is also known by the name ‘thalapothichil’ (thala-head; pothichil-covering). The paste is prepared by using some cooling herbs mixed with buttermilk. This is an effective treatment for many of the psychological disorders. It promotes both mental and physical relaxation.
Procedure
The person is made to sit in an easy position. A gentle oil massage is given to head with specific medicated oil. An herbal paste is freshly prepared by cooking it with the buttermilk after carefully assessing the condition of the person. The paste is applied over the scalp in a layer of thickness of about 0.5 to 1 centimeter, leaving a small central portion. The paste is covered using banana leaf and cloth leaving the groove open at the bregma. A medicated oil is filled in this groove. At the end of the procedure the paste is removed; a gentle head massage is given.
Duration of the treatment
30 minutes to 45 minutes depending on the condition.
Benefits
- Promotes nerve stimulation
- Relieves stress and anxiety
- Reduces the aggravated pitta
- Reduces the burning sensation of scalp
- Promotes mental and physical relaxation
- Promotes sound sleep
- Cures dandruff, hairfall,premature graying of hair and hair loss
- Effective in hypertension management
- Improves lustre and smoothness of hair
- Improves memory
- Relaxes, rejuvenates and nourishes the head and neck region
- Effective in migraine headache
- Insanity
- Epilepsy
- Neurological disorders