What is Shirodhara?
The name Shirodhara comes from ‘shiro’ (head) and ‘dhara’ (stream). A continuous, rhythmic stream of warm medicated oil is poured onto the forehead, the area between the eyebrows often called the ‘third eye’, from a special vessel hung above the head.
Classically, the liquid can be oil (taila dhara), medicated milk (Ksheeradhara) or medicated buttermilk (Takradhara). At Sattva we offer these as separate therapies, and the physician chooses the one that suits you.
How Shirodhara 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 Shirodhara is right for you and which preparation to use. Panchakarma at Sattva is medically supervised.
You lie on your back on a traditional wooden therapy table, with your eyes protected by a soft pad. The dhara vessel is positioned above your forehead and gently swung from side to side, so that the warm oil flows evenly across the forehead and into the hair. The oil is collected, re-warmed and used again to keep a steady temperature.
It is often preceded by a light head, neck and shoulder massage.
Who may benefit from Shirodhara?
Our clinic describes Shirodhara as a profoundly calming therapy that helps to pacify the mind and nervous system. After assessment, it may be considered for people who:
- Feel stressed, anxious or mentally fatigued
- Have difficulty relaxing or sleeping well
- Want a deeply relaxing therapy as part of a wellness or Panchakarma plan
Whether Shirodhara 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.
Shirodhara is a supportive therapy. It does not replace treatment for anxiety, depression or sleep disorders by a doctor or mental-health professional.
What to expect
Specialised treatments like Shirodhara are usually around 45 minutes. Your physician will advise how many sittings are appropriate.
Shirodhara: frequently asked questions
Do I need a consultation before Shirodhara?
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 Shirodhara is suitable for you.
Will my hair be oily afterwards?
Yes. The oil soaks the hair, so you may want to bring a scarf or cap. Our therapists will advise when and how to wash it out.
What is the difference between Shirodhara, Takradhara and Ksheeradhara?
They use the same pouring technique but different liquids: oil for Shirodhara, medicated buttermilk for Takradhara and medicated milk for Ksheeradhara. The physician chooses based on your constitution and complaint.
How do I book Shirodhara at Sattva?
Tap “Book on WhatsApp” on this page. WhatsApp opens with the message “Hello, I’d like to book an appointment for Shirodhara at Sattva Healthcare.” Add your preferred day and time and send it. You can also call us on +91 99818 14808.
Book Shirodhara 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.