Panchakarma is a set of Ayurvedic techniques that aim to cleanse the body of unwanted waste and toxins after lubricating it. It is a highly individualized procedure that can only be done under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner. The term "panchakarma" means "five actions or five treatments" in Sanskrit, and there are five primary treatments included in Panchakarma:

• Vamana: This treatment involves therapeutic emesis or induced vomiting, which helps clear the upper gastrointestinal tract to the duodenum and a part of the respiratory tract.

• Virechana: This treatment involves therapeutic purgation or induced bowel movement, which helps to eliminate excess pitta from the body.

• Basti: This treatment involves medicated enema, which helps to eliminate excess vata from the body.

• Nasya: This treatment involves nasal administration of medicated oils or powders, which helps to eliminate excess kapha from the body.

• Rakta Moksha: This treatment involves bloodletting, usually through the form of leeches on the body, and is useful for treating skin and blood disorders.

Panchakarma is designed to restore balance to the body and mind by eliminating accumulated impurities from the mind-body physiology. It is essentially a detoxification program that helps manage concerns relating to skin, joint relief, pain relief, hair care, immunity, stress management, cognitive function, weight management, cough & cold relief, allergy care, eye care, kidney health, mens health, womens health, and kids health. Panchakarma helps to gently clear the channels of removal in the body so that everything runs smoothly and efficiently. In the process, the mind and body go through their own cleansing process as well. Traditionally, Ayurveda suggests doing Panchakarma with the change of the seasons, so about three times per year. Anytime you feel out of sorts or ill, consider Panchakarma.