Ayurvedic Elakizhi treatment is done involving following steps first of all the leaves are selected which has specific Vata balancing effect. Some of the widely used leaves are Tamarindus indica, Calotropis gigantea, Ricinus communis, Moringa oleifera, Vitex negundo and Adhatoda vasica. These leaves are freshly harvested, cut, and blended with other ingredients like grated coconut, lemon, turmeric, and rock salt depending with the state of the person affected.
This mixture is then fried in sesame oil or in any other suitable medicated oil depending on the requirement. When fried, the mixture should be divided into four portions and each placed in the linen cloth in form of boluses. Such boluses are then confined on a warm container and from the frying vessel to keep the boluses warm in the process.
Before the application of boluses, a gentle oil massage, known as Abhyangam, is performed for about 10 to 15 minutes. The warm boluses are then applied over the body in a series of seven different postures, ensuring consistent temperature maintenance around 46 degrees Celsius by reheating them as needed. After the treatment, the patient is covered with a thick blanket for approximately 30 minutes to allow the body to absorb the herbal properties fully. A hot water shower is recommended afterward to cleanse the skin and promote relaxation.
