Benefits of Takra dhara in Ayurveda

The word 'Takra' means butter milk and 'Dhara' means pouring. Dhara with medicated  butter milk is called as  Takra dhara. This is similar to Shiro dhara  but buttermilk is poured onto  the forehead, instead of  herbal oil. Takra dhara involves continuous flow of medicated butter milk to the centre of forehead continuously.

Takra dhara should be done in the prescribed time and duration. After giving head massage medicated Buttermilk is poured in an uninterrupted flow from a hanging vessel to the forehead and scalp.Usually materials like Amalaki choornam , Mustha and Milk are used for the preparation of Takra.Normally the course of the treatment is of 7-14 days and the duration each day is of 45-90 minutes depending on the clinical condition of the patient.

Buttermilk is supposed to have tremendous cooling properties and induces the same to the brain with the intent of relaxing the mind and reducing mental stress.Ayurveda suggests this treatment especially for psychosomatic disorders like psoriasis. It is also a favorite  therapy for people who  complain of migraines and  other specific Pitta disorders,  where cooling and refreshing  therapies are recommended. Apparently this is very commonly used treatment for Vata predominant diseases like Alzheimer’s, insomnia, stress related problems, hypertension etc.

It prevents graying of the hair and hair fall, reduces headaches, increases digestive power and alleviates anorexia. In cases of psoriasis, Dhara is performed on the affected area to have a curative effect. Also this proves very effective in treating scalp problems like dandruff. This treatment relaxes and revitalizes the central nervous system hence helps in strengthening the central nervous system and curing diseases like diabetic neuropathy and paralysis."The excessive secretion of cortisol produced by stress causes rise in blood levels of glucose.This may be reduced due to the relaxation effect of Takra dhara" says Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital & Orthopedic Centre.Before doing Dhara the patient should be well examined and any contra indications should be excluded.

Takra dhara is believed to have a balancing effect on the deepest recesses of our brains, stimulating the endocrine system, the pituitary and pineal glands (for hormonal imbalances) and pleasure neurotransmitters (for depression or emotional insecurity). It is also said to enhance blood circulation to the brain, improving clarity and releasing deeply trapped Aama, or toxins.