Ayurveda considers sweat (sweda) as the waste product of fat tissue or Meda Dhatu. Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Director and Principal Consultant of Ayush Ayurveda, Singapore, says, “Regular sweating is essential to eliminate ama (toxins) from the body. Inadequate sweating may lead to blocked skin pores while excessive sweating can give rise to fungal infection and body odor issues.”
Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, adds that sweating is also linked to Pitta dosha. “Pitta is responsible for the metabolic process of the body. Hence, sweating regulates temperature and affects metabolism. Ayurveda recommends steam bath (swedana) to promote perspiration.”
Swedana -Detoxification through Sweat
Swedana or sweating helps detoxify and balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor Ayush Singapore, says, “There are thousands of sweat glands that help eliminate toxins from the body. When activated, sweat glands can help to eliminate toxins in the inner layers of the skin and muscles. This is one of the major benefits of swedana. Hence it is an important preliminary procedure for the Panchakarma treatment.”
Swedana is an excellent treatment for conditions like stagnation, coldness, or stiffness. Such conditions affect the Kapha and Vata doshas. Through sweating, the body will be able to purify itself of toxins.
Sweda Therapy
Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, adds that Sweda Therapy, swedana, or sweating therapy, is a basic ayurvedic treatment using herbal steam. “The herbs used in the sweda therapy are selected based on the individual body type and needs.”
The Benefits of Swedana
Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says, “In Swedana, the steam is powered with herbs that open the channels having toxins. The herbal steam initiates generous sweating that, in turn, removes the toxins. Swedana is very effective and useful in relieving body pain, toxins, and waste.”
Eliminates toxins
Swedana detoxifies the body by expelling harmful toxins, chemicals, and metabolic waste through sweat or perspiration.
Helps in weight loss
Swedana helps burn fat and hence is effective in weight management. It enables weight loss naturally and safely.
Eases body pain
The herbal steam has a soothing effect on the nerves and joints. It helps the body to recuperate from pain and improve the quality of life. It also helps in loosening the joints, ligaments, and tendons. Swedana is very helpful in relieving menstrual cramps and rheumatoid arthritis.
Revamps the skin
Besides giving you glowing skin, swedana can help in managing skin conditions like allergies and cellulite. Swedana also improves the circulation of body fluids, thus promoting inner health.
Due to the immense benefits, Ayurveda recommends swedana to keep the body strong and refreshed.
Steam Box Swedana
Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor in Ayush Singapore, says, “In Ayurveda, a herbal infusion is used to induce steam in this. The patient is made to sit inside a wooden box surrounded by steam. The type of herbs and duration varies, but often it is about 30 minutes. Once they start sweating extensively, the body’s toxins are eliminated. However, this is done under close supervision as some people are very sensitive to high temperature.”
Dos and Don’ts
Ayurveda offers some procedures to perform swedana to ensure that it is suitable for your body type and ailment.
While Ayurveda does not favor saunas, they also insist on not including the head in the sweating chamber. Also, one should not stand in the sun for long to stimulate sweating and avoid excessive sweating.
Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor at Ayush Singapore, says, “While yoga and exercise can also induce sweating, steam is the most common source.”