What is Pizhichil?
Pizhichil, from a Malayalam word for ‘squeezing’, is a classic Kerala Panchakarma therapy. Generous amounts of warm medicated oil are squeezed from cloth over the body while therapists massage gently and rhythmically.
It combines oleation (snehana) and gentle heat (swedana) in one procedure, and is traditionally used for Vata disorders.
How Pizhichil is done at Sattva
Every therapy at Sattva begins with a consultation. Our physician reviews your health history, diet and lifestyle and uses traditional methods such as pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha) to understand your constitution, then decides whether Pizhichil is right for you and which preparation to use. Panchakarma at Sattva is medically supervised.
You lie on a wooden therapy table (droni). Therapists dip cloths in warm oil and squeeze it in a steady stream over the body, stroking in unison. The oil is continually re-warmed so that the temperature stays even, and the head is protected with a separate oil. You rest after the therapy before bathing.
Who may benefit from Pizhichil?
Our clinic describes Pizhichil as a revitalising therapy that improves muscle tone and aids recovery from paralysis and cerebral palsy. In Ayurveda it is traditionally used as supportive care for:
- Vata-related conditions affecting the muscles, joints and nerves
- People in rehabilitation after paralysis, alongside their medical and physiotherapy care
- Muscle stiffness and weakness, as judged by the physician
Whether Pizhichil is suitable for you is decided by the physician after your consultation. Please tell us about pregnancy, recent surgery or injury, fever, skin problems, allergies, heart conditions and any medicines you take.
Pizhichil supports, but does not replace, neurological care and physiotherapy.
What to expect
Your visit starts with a consultation, after which the therapy is carried out in the therapy room. Afterwards you can rest before going home, and the therapist will give you simple aftercare advice. The length of each session and the number of sittings vary from person to person; your physician will explain them in your treatment plan.
Pizhichil: frequently asked questions
Do I need a consultation before Pizhichil?
Yes. An appointment is required for all consultations and treatments. Your first consultation covers your health history, diet and lifestyle, and includes traditional pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha), so that the physician can decide whether Pizhichil is suitable for you.
Is Pizhichil suitable for children?
This is decided by the physician after assessment.
Why is so much oil used?
The continuous flow of warm oil is the defining feature of Pizhichil. It keeps the whole body evenly warm and oiled throughout the therapy.
How do I book Pizhichil at Sattva?
Tap “Book on WhatsApp” on this page. WhatsApp opens with the message “Hello, I’d like to book an appointment for Pizhichil at Sattva Healthcare.” Add your preferred day and time and send it. You can also call us on +91 99818 14808.
Book Pizhichil at Sattva Healthcare
Booking is by WhatsApp. Tap the button and send the pre-filled message with your preferred day and time; our team will confirm your appointment.
Related therapies
This page gives general information about a traditional Ayurvedic therapy and is not medical advice. Individual experiences vary, and no particular result is promised.