What is Patra Potali Sweda / Ilakizhi Ayurvedic Treatment?
Patra Potali Sweda, commonly referred to as Ilakizhi, is a highly effective Ayurvedic fomentation therapy. The word “Patra” means leaves, “Potali” refers to a pouch or bolus, and “Sweda” signifies sudation or fomentation. In this treatment, medicinal leaves and herbs, freshly collected and processed, are chopped, mixed with other herbal ingredients, and then tied into a bolus (potali). These bundles are then warmed in medicated oils or a suitable herbal decoction and used for rhythmic massage and fomentation over affected areas of the body. This unique method allows the active principles of the herbs to penetrate deeply into the tissues, providing therapeutic relief.