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Special Karkidaka ChikitsaAccording to Ayurveda, the Malayalam month of Karkidaka (July 15th to August 15th) is time for preventive therapies. Karkkidaka is known for rains and associated diseases. During this month, human body becomes extremely sensitive to pathogens. Karkidaka has long been identified as the period for preventive treatments and rejuvenation therapies.
The major Ayurveda therapies done during the Karkidaka month are:
Massages
Oil massages (abhayanga) of various kinds to strengthen the body, customized for various age groups are done. These massages are done with medicated oil, and are part of rejuvenation therapies.
Karkidaka Kanji (the rice porridge)
Karkidaka Kanji is basically rice porridge with medicinal herbs added. Special Ayurveda packages for preventive healthcare are available in different Ayurveda hospitals and recognized treatment centers in Kerala. Karkidaka kanji kit is also available at many Ayurveda centers across Kerala.
Sukha-chikitsa (preventive therapy)
Sukham means healthy state and chikitsa is therapy or treatment. Sukhachikitsa is given to healthy persons, to prevent attack of diseases. Massages (abhayanga) and specially prepared kanji (rice porridge) are part of sukhachikitsa.
Rejuvenation therapy
Ayurveda rejuvenation therapy is long process, lasting for many days, from 21 days up to 45 days. During rejuvenation therapy, the body is first cleaned off accumulated toxic materials (excess fat, chemicals, pathogens, etc).
The body is then strengthened with special medicines like Rasayanas and with medicated oil massages (abhayanga). Rejuvenation therapy can also include full-scale panchakarma treatments. However, according to the age, physical and mental conditions, and other factors, the doctor may decide to omit one or more procedures of panchakarma treatment.