VIRECHANA A BIOPURIFICATORY METHOD IN AYURVEDA: A REVIEW

Abstract

Virechana is one kind of Shodhana Karma. The act of expelling Doshas through “Adhobhaga” is known as Virechana. Virechana is a therapeutic medicated purgative therapy that is meant for expelling out vitiated Dosha and Mala (waste material) through the anal route. This therapy is indicated for bio-purification and detoxification of body in many diseased conditions as well as for healthy individuals too as preventive measure. It is worth mentioning that Virechana Karma, in contrast to modern purgatives, is not merely an act to open the bowel, however a complete therapeutic measure which has systemic as well as local effects. This reality is additionally supported by the etymological consideration of the word "Virechana", its wide range of indications the specific classical method, and mode of action given in Ayurvedic literature. In addition to the adequacy and popularity, the Virechana Karma, is considered as the best treatment for morbid and increased Pitta Dosha and it is more useful in eliminating the diseases originated from the vitiated Pitta. It is less complex procedure than Vamana, has less probability of complications and should be possible effectively, so it is widely utilised as Sodhana therapy in routine.