Panchakarma, the ultimate Ayurvedic detox treatment is a five step procedure that is intelligently designed to clean the body at a deep cellular level. The aim of this detoxification therapy is not only to remove accumulated toxins from various parts of the body, but also to bring balance between the three doshas of the body that is – Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Now the Panchakarma treatment is not only about the 5 step procedure that constitute the therapies of the treatment. But there is also a preparatory and post treatment therapies that play an important role in the efficiency of the entire treatment. While the treatments in themselves are transformative, the diet that is to be consumed before, during and after the treatment also plays an important role. This enhances the efficiency of the treatment and protect the body’s digestive fire – Agni and gradually after resolving the issues it protects and strengthens the body’s natural immunity, metabolism and digestion.

In Ayurveda food is not only treated as a means of preparation but as medicine that help the body get rid of toxins, rebuild tissues, heal diseases and support body in long term reformation and rejuvenation. In this guide, we shall be understanding about Ayurveda diet and how the right nutrition during and after Panchakarma treatment play an important role.

What to eat in the main phase – Pradhan karma

The main phase of this detoxification process includes Vaman (Medical emesis therapy), Virechna (Purgation therapy), Basti (Enema therapy), Nasya (Medicated nasal administration) and Raktamokshana (Bloodletting therapy). In addition to these core therapies, consuming the right and suitable diet elevates the therapeutic results of the treatment.

Satvik, easily digestable meals – Consuming satvik, light easily digestible meals such as Khichdi which is made up of Moong dal, rice and very mild spices or Kanji – fermented rice recipe or soups made out of Moong dal, steamed vegetables are not only easy but also supportive on the body’s internal digestive system to digest. It stabilises the Vata Dosha of the body, balances the digestive fire and keeps the body energetic while supporting detox.

Cooked food only, especially warm – Although raw food such as salads, smoothies etc are otherwise healthy for our body. But when you are undergoing a Panchakarma treatment, it is important to ensure that you are consuming properly cooked warm meals. This include spices such as cumin, turmeric, fennel, ginger etc which support digestion by boosting the Agni – digestive fire. Although, it should be taken care that one should avoid hot spices such as red chilli powders, pepper etc and keep distance from dry snacks, cold foods and raw items.

Stay hydrated – Hydration is very important for our body because the human body is mostly made up of water. But this becomes even more important when you are seeking Ayurvedic treatments like Panchkarma. The reason being that water helps in removal of toxins and strengthens your digestion. Drinking warm water or herb infused waters can be very beneficial to enhance the treatment. But it should be taken care that you avoid alcohol, caffeine, iced water, bottled juices and carbonated drinks so that you don’t damage your Agni.

Diet during the Paschat karna phase, post Panchkarma diet

Consume liquid diet – After the Panchakarma treatment is over, the body enters the Pashat Karma phase that is the post panchakarma phase. It is important to remember that the body is slowly introduced to food through Sansarjana karma. Therefore, the complexity of the food should be gradually increased. So in the first stages it should be taken care to consume liquid diet that includes warm soups with thin consistency or clear Dal water or warm rice water for two to three days until the body is prepared to take anything solid.

Intake semi solid foods – The next step is to move on to semi solid food such as oats, dalia Khichdi, Meals prepared of Moong daal which is easy to consume and breakdown by the body.

Eeat soft solid – Now you can go on to eating soft solids that include easily digestible vegetables or soft chapatis or rice which is properly cooked. You can consume fruits and vegetables as well. But it should be taken care that since the soft solid food phase has started you should not jump onto packaged foods or fast food that will cause you harm.

Resume normal diet after a week – Finally you can get back to eating your normal food after a week of the Panchkarma treatment is over and this mostly depends upon the intensity of the treatment. But you should make sure that after the treatment is over you are still consuming ayurvedically balanced, wholesome meals which are prepared by whole grains and fresh vegetables and spices.

Expert tips to experience maximum therapeutic benefits of Panchakarma

• Ayurveda recommends one to eat with intention and sincerity. Meaning that when you are eating your food you should eat slowly and avoid distractions such as screens or music.
• It is suggested to stop eating until you are absolutely full. It is believed in Ayurveda that there should be 1/3 space left in your belly so as to keep space for digestion.
• There are certain incompatible foods in Ayurveda such as mixing fruit and milk or curd and fish or ghee and honey and even meat and dairy. This is because these food combinations make it difficult for the body to breakdown the food and can also have other side effects.
• Following a circadian rhythm for eating will impact your body. Ayurveda suggests one to follow the sun especially for eating. This means that when the sun is at the peak in the afternoon hours, you should consume your lunch and by sunset your dinner should be done. Also late night munching should be avoided to maintain balance and healthy digestion.

 Conclusion

Food is not only a means replenishment and energy. But it is an effective tool that can offer powerful healing to support intense detox treatment such as Panchakarma. Today, there are certified ayurveda courses in kerala, hat educate about the role and impact of food in Ayurvedic treatments. This knowledge not only helps one to learn about elevating the therapeutic benefits of a certain treatment. But also keep the traditional wisdom of Ayurveda alive especially in modern times like today.