Health & Well-Being A-Z

Shirodhara

woman receiving Shirodhara technique
Description

Shirodhara is a technique used in Ayurvedic medicine. It involves pouring different liquids over the forehead to heal various conditions.

Shirodhara literally means "head flow." The liquids used depend on the conditions being treated. Commonly used liquids include water, various oils, buttermilk, or coconut water. It's not clear how shirodhara might work.

People use shirodhara for hayfever, insomnia, ringing in the ears, dizziness, hearing loss, memory loss, ADHD, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Is It Effective?

Effective

There is interest in using shirodhara for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Is it Safe?

Safety

Shirodhara is possibly safe when used appropriately. No side effects have been reported.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if shirodhara is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. But there is no reason to expect side effects.

Drug interactions

It is not known if this treatment interacts with any medicines. Before using this treatment, talk with your health professional if you take any medications.

Herb interactions

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Food interactions

There are no known interactions with foods.

Dosage

Shirodhara is a technique that involves laying face up in a relaxing environment while a variety of liquids are gently flowed over the forehead. The liquid used depends on the condition being treated. Commonly used liquids include water, various oils, buttermilk, or coconut water. Shirodhara is becoming increasingly popular in day spas, especially in North America, where it is used to relieve fatigue and promote relaxation.

Other names

Ayurvedic Shirodhara, Jaladhara, Ksheeradhara, Massage Ayurvédique, Shiro Dhara, Shirodhara Therapy, Thakradhara, Thyladhara.

Disclaimer

Information on this website is for informational use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While evidence-based, it is not guaranteed to be error-free and is not intended to meet any particular user’s needs or requirements or to cover all possible uses, safety concerns, interactions, outcomes, or adverse effects. Always check with your doctor or other medical professional before making healthcare decisions (including taking any medication) and do not delay or disregard seeking medical advice or treatment based on any information displayed on this website.

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