Sirodhara: Oiling the Third Eye – Summary and Explanation

Overview:

Sirodhara (also spelled Shirodhara) is one of the most iconic Ayurvedic treatments, especially popular in spas worldwide—often even more than in clinical settings in India. Its name comes from siro (head) and dhara (stream or flow), referring to the steady stream of warm liquid poured on the forehead, particularly over the "third eye" area (the center of the forehead, just above the brow line).

How It Works:

• The patient lies down on a wooden treatment table, enveloped in warm towels.

• A vessel slowly drips warm liquid in a rhythmic stream onto the forehead.

• Liquids used can include herbal oils, milk, buttermilk, or ghee, selected based on the patient’s Ayurvedic constitution (dosha).

• The special table, made from therapeutic wood, is designed to catch and recycle the oil.

Therapeutic Benefits:

• Profoundly calming and relaxing—soothes the central nervous system.

• Thought to balance the Ajna chakra or "third eye," aiding clarity and deep mental rest.

• Used traditionally to treat vata imbalances (like insomnia, anxiety, and nervous tension), but also helps pitta types (cooling the mind) and kapha types (can induce sleep and relaxation).

• Also indicated in a range of conditions: ENT disorders, high blood pressure, mental health issues, facial paralysis, and more.

Customized Treatment:

• Vata types: herbal oil, for 53 minutes

• Pitta types: herbal milk, ghee, or coconut oil, for 43 minutes

• Kapha types: buttermilk, for 31 minutes

• Best administered early in the morning over a 21-day course, depending on the individual.

Variants:

• Deha-dhara: An extended version where multiple therapists pour oil over the whole body.

Modern Context:

Despite its deep roots in therapeutic Ayurveda, sirodhara has become a popular spa treatment worldwide, often in simplified or non-traditional forms. Many are drawn to its calming effects—even if unaware of its traditional or doshic basis.