Udwarthanam: Dry Massage with Herbal Powder

Overview:

Udwarthanam is a vigorous Ayurvedic massage that uses dry herbal powders instead of oil. It is an energizing treatment aimed at detoxification, weight reduction, and skin rejuvenation.

Key Characteristics:

• Powder-Based Massage: Uses finely or coarsely ground herbal powders selected based on one’s dosha.

• Opposite Stroke Technique: Unlike typical Ayurvedic massages that flow towards the heart, Udwarthanam uses short, sharp, upward strokes against the direction of hair growth, stimulating the body in the opposite flow of dosha.

Therapeutic Benefits:

• Increases body heat and improves circulation

• Breaks down cellulite, firms muscles, and boosts metabolism

• Reduces fat and cholesterol levels

• Promotes detoxification by opening micro-channels and removing ama (toxins)

• Improves digestion and removes bad body odor

• Exfoliates dead skin cells, leaving the skin soft, smooth, and glowing

Clinical & Spa Applications:

• Typically prescribed for 10–14 days in clinical settings for obesity, metabolic sluggishness, or ama twan.

• Now widely adopted by luxury spas for its rejuvenating effects.

Popular Destinations:

• Udaivilas Spa (Udaipur): Uses custom powders like triphala choornam, Terminalia chebula, or kola kula thadhi choornam (a mix of pulses and herbs). The treatment is followed by steam therapy to aid in detox and absorption.

• Soukya International Holistic Health Center (Bangalore): Tailors the herbal mix per individual needs. Common ingredients include:

  • Vacha (Acorus calamus) – for swelling

  • Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry) – antioxidant and rejuvenator

  • Green gram powder

  • Basil – cleansing and antimicrobial

Unique Aspects:

• Conducted by two therapists simultaneously for balanced pressure and synchronized movement.

• Powder may enter the nasal passage during treatment, offering internal cleansing benefits.

• Encourages steam room use post-massage for deeper detox and skin softening.