Swedana (स्वेदन)

Swedana is the process of sudation or inducing sweat. It is performed after Snehana to further liquefy the doshas and di.

Ayurvedic Principles (Siddhanta Kosha) 1 min read
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Sanskrit Verse

स्तम्भगौरवशीतघ्नं स्वेदनं स्वेदकारकम्।

— (Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 22/12)

Explanation

Swedana is the process of sudation or inducing sweat. It is performed after Snehana to further liquefy the doshas and dilate the Srotas (body channels). It relieves stiffness (Stambha), heaviness (Gaurava), and coldness (Shita) in the body. There are many types, including Nadi Sweda (steam) and Pinda Sweda (bolus fomentation).

Clinical Importance

As a Purva Karma, Swedana is essential for guiding the loosened doshas towards the Koshtha for elimination. It is also used as a standalone therapy for pain, stiffness, and Vata-Kapha disorders.