# Shirodhara Pot Apparatus

> Shirodhara Pot Apparatus (Sanskrit: Shirodhara Yantra) is an instrument used in panchakarma equipment. A vessel (traditionally earthen or brass) with a small hole at the bottom, suspended above the patient's forehead. Warm medicated oil, milk, or buttermilk is poured in a continuous stream (dhara) onto the Ajna marma (forehead/third eye area).

## Key facts

- **Sanskrit name:** Shirodhara Yantra
- **Ayurvedic category:** Panchakarma Equipment

A vessel (traditionally earthen or brass) with a small hole at the bottom, suspended above the patient's forehead. Warm medicated oil, milk, or buttermilk is poured in a continuous stream (dhara) onto the Ajna marma (forehead/third eye area).

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Described in Ashtanga Hridaya and elaborated in Kerala Ayurvedic texts (Sahasrayogam). The term 'Shirodhara' derives from 'Shiro' (head) and 'Dhara' (stream).

## How is it used traditionally?

Treatment of insomnia, anxiety, neurological disorders, migraines, stress, PTSD, and as a Medhya (brain-nourishing) therapy. Part of Murdhni Taila (head oleation) therapies.

## Traditional materials

- Earthenware (Mritpatra)
- Brass (Pittala)
- Copper (Tamra)
- Coconut shell

## Modern variants

- Stainless steel automatic Shirodhara machines with IR heaters
- Electric oil circulation and temperature-controlled systems
- Fiber-body Shirodhara stands

## Regulatory status

- **India Cdsco:** Not separately classified as a medical device under CDSCO MDR 2017. Regulated as Panchakarma therapy equipment under AYUSH ministry guidelines.
- **Us Fda:** Not specifically regulated. Would fall under general wellness device if no medical claims are made.
- **Eu Mdr:** Not specifically classified. May fall under Class I if marketed as a medical device with therapeutic claims.

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Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.