Pizhichil

PIZHICHIL:

Pizhichil is a Keraleeya Chikitsa. Warm medicated oil is squeezed over the body of the patient with a piece of cloth, which is frequently dipped in Kuzhampu, more viscous than that used for Sarvanga Dhara. This treatment has proved very effective for ailments due to Vatha, especially Pakshaghatha, Paralysis, Muscle Spasm and Degenerative Diseases affecting Muscles.

Pizhichil is a relaxing, soothing and rejuvenating treatment with medicated warm oil used in a continuous stream for a definite period for the whole body (excluding head & neck). It is used to effectively treat arthritis, ageing, general weakness, paralysis etc. ‘Pizhichil’ and ‘Sarvangadhara’ are technically the same.

‘Pizhichil’ literally means ‘squeezing’. Here, warm medicated oil is squeezed over the patient’s body from a piece of cloth that is periodically dipped in a vessel containing the oil. In Sarvangadhara, oil is poured over the patient’s body from pitchers. Pizhichil requires a lesser quantity of oil when compared to Sarvangadhara.Before beginning Pizhichil, a suitable type of oil should be applied to the head and body of the patient. In some cases, a talam is also applied on the head and bandaged with leaves.

The masseur usually begin by squeezing oil on to the shoulders and then down the hands of the patient who sits in an upright position. Each masseur uses on hand to pour the oil while massaging with the other.

Pizhichil is recommended for diseases caused by a vitiation of the Vata humour-Pakshaghata (Hemiplegia), paralysis and muscle spasms – and other degenerative diseases that affect the muscles.