Virechana Karma is one of the five main cleansing therapies in Ayurveda, categorized under Panchakarma. It refers to therapeutic purgation—medically induced laxation to cleanse the small intestine and liver, and to eliminate excess Pitta dosha from the body.

🔍 Purpose of Virechana Karma

Virechana is primarily used to:

• Remove accumulated Pitta toxins (heat, acidity, inflammation).
  
  

• Purify the gastrointestinal tract, especially the liver, gallbladder, and small intestines.
  
  

• Treat Pitta-related disorders such as:
  
  

  • Skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, acne)
    
    

  • Hyperacidity and ulcers
    
    

  • Liver disorders (jaundice, fatty liver)
    
    

  • Headaches and migraines (of Pitta origin)
    
    

  • Hormonal imbalances
    
    

  • Chronic constipation
    
    

🌀 How Virechana Is Done (Step-by-Step)

1. Purva Karma (Preparation Phase)
   
   

   • Internal oleation (Snehapana): Consumption of medicated ghee or oil over 3–7 days to loosen toxins.
     
     

   • External oleation and steam therapy: Oil massage and sweating help mobilize toxins.
     
     

   • Light Pitta-aggravating diet is given before the main procedure to bring Pitta into the GI tract.
     
     

2. Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure)
   
   

   • On the day of Virechana, the patient fasts in the morning.
     
     

   • A purgative herbal medicine is administered (commonly Trivrit lehya, Avipattikar churna, or Castor oil with ginger).
     
     

   • The person then consumes warm water at intervals.
     
     

   • Multiple bowel movements occur over several hours, eliminating toxins from the system.
     
     

3. Paschat Karma (Post-care)
   
   

   • A carefully planned post-purgation diet (Samsarjana Krama) is followed, starting with rice gruel and progressing slowly to normal food over 3–7 days.
     
     

   • Lifestyle adjustments are made to avoid heat, stress, and overexertion.
     
     

✅ Benefits of Virechana Karma

• Deep detoxification of the digestive and hepatic systems.
  
  

• Reduction of inflammation and skin conditions.
  
  

• Improved digestion and absorption.
  
  

• Relief from headaches and emotional imbalances.
  
  

• Strengthens immunity and vitality (ojas).
  
  

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Should only be done under the guidance of a trained Ayurvedic practitioner.
  
  

• Not suitable for very weak patients, those with dehydration, pregnancy, or serious gastrointestinal diseases.
  
  

• Requires rest and careful diet afterward to avoid complications.