What is Talapothichil?
Talapothichil (from the Malayalam ‘thala’, head, and ‘pothichil’, covering) is a Kerala therapy in which a cooling medicinal paste is applied over the scalp and covered with a banana leaf. The paste is classically made with Amalaki (amla) and buttermilk or herbal decoctions.
How Talapothichil 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 Talapothichil is right for you and which preparation to use. Panchakarma at Sattva is medically supervised.
The hair is parted and a thick layer of the herbal paste is applied over the scalp. The head is then wrapped in a banana leaf and left for a time before the paste is washed off.
Who may benefit from Talapothichil?
Our clinic describes Talapothichil as a calming head treatment that helps to alleviate anxiety, insomnia and various scalp and hair problems. After assessment, it may be considered for people who:
- Feel anxious or stressed
- Have difficulty sleeping
- Have scalp or hair complaints
Whether Talapothichil 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.
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.
Talapothichil: frequently asked questions
Do I need a consultation before Talapothichil?
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 Talapothichil is suitable for you.
Do I need to cut my hair?
No. The paste is applied through your hair and washed out afterwards.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes. The paste is washed off, but it is a good idea to bring a towel or scarf for the journey home.
How do I book Talapothichil at Sattva?
Tap “Book on WhatsApp” on this page. WhatsApp opens with the message “Hello, I’d like to book an appointment for Talapothichil at Sattva Healthcare.” Add your preferred day and time and send it. You can also call us on +91 99818 14808.
Book Talapothichil 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.