Pizhichil Equipment Oil Bath Apparatus
Pizhichil Equipment Oil Bath Apparatus (Sanskrit: Pizhichil Yantra / Sarvanga Dhara Patra) is an instrument used in massage and external therapy tools. A set of equipment for Pizhichil (Sarvanga Dhara) therapy where warm medicated oil is continuously poured over the entire body from a height while simultaneously massaging. Includes oil vessels, squeezing cloth, Droni (trough/tub), and oil warming apparatus.
| Sanskrit name | Pizhichil Yantra / Sarvanga Dhara Patra |
|---|---|
| Ayurvedic category | Massage and External Therapy Tools |
A set of equipment for Pizhichil (Sarvanga Dhara) therapy where warm medicated oil is continuously poured over the entire body from a height while simultaneously massaging. Includes oil vessels, squeezing cloth, Droni (trough/tub), and oil warming apparatus.
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Kerala Ayurvedic tradition (Ashtavaidya texts); references in Sahasrayogam. Also known as Sarvanga Sneha Dhara. Called ‘the royal treatment’ (Raja Sweda) as it was traditionally reserved for royalty.
How is it used traditionally?
Rheumatic diseases, paralysis (Pakshavadha), neurological disorders, musculoskeletal degeneration, sexual debility, anti-aging, and complete body rejuvenation (Rasayana).
Traditional materials
- Cotton cloth pieces (Vasana) for squeezing oil
- Brass or copper oil vessel (Dhara Patra)
- Wooden Droni (trough/tub) for patient to lie in
- Earthen pot for warming oil
Modern variants
- Automatic oil circulation systems
- Thermostat-controlled oil warmers
- Stainless steel Droni tubs
- Fiber-body treatment tables with oil collection channels
Regulatory status
- India Cdsco: Not classified as a medical device.
- Us Fda: Not regulated as a medical device.
- Eu Mdr: Not classified as a medical device.
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