More and more people, these days, seek relief from the woes of the modern world through the ancient techniques of healing. Potli Massage Therapy is one of those ancient techniques where the best herbal remedies are coupled with therapeutic massage. This therapy is very effective to cure both physical and mental ailments like stress, depression, anxiety. This article is specifically written to focus on ancient but effective potli massage therapy. In this article, you will get a complete idea about what is potli (Hot Compress), its benefits, the ingredients used in potli and their properties, how to tie it, heat it and how to apply it.
What is Potli Massage Therapy?
Potli Massage Therapy is one of the oldest Ayurvedic treatments in India. It has been used in South East Asia, especially in Thailand, as a natural remedy for centuries. In this popular massage therapy, a heated herbal pouch also known as potli (poultice) is used. This potli is softly pressed on the body or affected area, sometimes rolling it over in a manner similar to a massage. It rejuvenates, relaxes and nourishes the affected area or the entire body. It has a therapeutic effect on the entire body and mind. In potli massage out of 5 elements of nature, fire and water elements are used.
Different herbs have different properties so herbs in potlis are selected according to health condition and properties of the herbs. They are then packed into a muslin cloth and massaged onto specific pressure points that help in healing the body. They also help stimulate blood circulation which promotes faster recovery and healthy skin as well.
The herbs and oils in the potli get absorbed by the skin which reduces pain and improves blood circulation and thus promotes relaxation.
The treatment is based on Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine using natural medicines to treat several disorders. Potli Massage is most effective because it combines the advantage of touch therapy with the curative properties of herbs.
The History of Potli Massage
The origins of Potli Massage can be traced back to ancient Ayurvedic texts, where it was used as a remedy for various physical ailments. The technique was practised by Indian healers who understood the therapeutic properties of specific herbs and their ability to heal the body and mind. The use of herbal pouches for massage was believed to balance the doshas (the three energies that govern the body in Ayurveda – Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and promote overall well-being.
Over the years, Potli Massage has evolved and has been adapted for today’s needs. Today, it is a common practice in many Ayurvedic spas and wellness centres all over the world, particularly in India and Southeast Asia. Although it is popular today, the treatment still proves its origins by using natural herbs and oils to heal the body.
Potli Massage Therapy has many benefits that promote both physical and mental well-being. Let’s have a look-
1. Relieves Muscle Tension and Pain
One of the main advantages of Potli Massage is that it reduces muscle stiffness and inflammation. It is very much helpful in treating conditions like arthritis, back pain, neck stiffness, and joint pain.The herbal warm pouches cause an increase in blood circulation to the areas of tension, which in turn reduces muscle tightness and helps in relaxing the muscles.
2. Improves blood circulation
The heated potlis expands blood vessels which increases blood flow, promoting better circulation throughout the body. This is helpful in delivering oxygen and nutrient supply to different organs which helps in improving their function. As a result, the healing process becomes fast.
3. Detoxifies the Body
Certain herbs used in potlis like neem, turmeric, lemon grass, lemon peel, and eucalyptus are helpful in detoxifying the body. Regular therapy can aid in flushing out toxins from the body, promoting clearer skin and better organ health. If herbs are combined with techniques, then it gives a cleansing effect externally as well as helps one get rid of toxins in the body which results in improved digestion, healthier and lustre skin, and overall well-being.
4. Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress
Potli Massage Therapy is very relaxing and soothing thereby reducing anxiety and stress. Herbs like lemongrass calm the nervous system, making it an excellent treatment for those suffering from anxiety or hypertension. It activates the function of the pineal gland so very much effective in treating insomnia.
5. Improves Skin Health
Certain herbs used in Potli Massage have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in tightening the skin. Due to heat pores get open and herbs can absorb into the skin which helps to improve the health and texture of the skin. It also helps to reduce acne.
6. Enhances Flexibility and Joint Mobility
It improves the flexibility and mobility of joints. So useful for people who are suffering from stiff joint problems. It is suitable for seniors or anyone who is suffering from the problem of joint flexibility. Athletes and body builders prefer this treatment as it helps relieve soreness of muscle, improves mobility and flexibility, and helps speedy recovery after sports activities or intense workouts.
7. Other Benefits
Prevent ageing, reduce weight, Improve the quality of sleep, reduce numbness
Contraindication
Potli Massage is not advisable in following conditions
- Skin Infection or allergies
- Cancer
- Infectious diseases
- Major cardiac problem
- Hemorrhagic disorders
- Diabetes
- Diarrhea
- Acute illness
- Epilepsy
- Pregnancy
- Severe inflammation
The Major Potli Massage Ingredients
The key ingredients used in herbal pouches as part of Potli Massage Therapy have medicinal properties, with specific purposes to target various health conditions. Though the herbs will differ from one individual to another, some common herbs found in Potli Massage include the following:
- Neem – anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant
- Basil (Tulsi) – antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory. It relieves pain, reduces swelling, lowers blood sugar levels, immunity Booster, reduces Fever, Cold, Cough, and Reduces Stress & Blood Pressure.
- Lemon grass – antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant. It detoxifies the body, improves digestion, decreases stress and promotes relaxation.
- Mint – Antioxidant. Helps in indigestion, improves brain function, and reduces pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Sunth (Dry ginger) – Antioxidants. Reduces Pain, Reduces blood pressure, improves heart health, helpful in lung diseases.
- Amla – Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory. Having astringent properties. Improves digestion, reduces heartburn, improves skin tone, strengthens hair roots
- Turmeric (Haldi) – antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, healing wounds, and brightening skin. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and healing properties. Turmeric is usually applied to relieve pain, and inflammation and to improve skin tone.
- Ginger: It has anti-inflammatory properties. It improves blood circulation and soothes the nerve endings and reduces muscle pain.
- Clove: It is a natural analgesic. It helps relieve soreness of the muscles and can also ease arthritis pain.
- Cinnamon (Dalchini) – anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial. Lowers cholesterol, and improves digestion. Known for stimulant effects by helping improve blood flow to tissues
- Cardamom: It calms all the body’s muscles hence reducing stress and aiding digestion at the same time; for relaxation purposes too.
- Giloy – antioxidant, anti-stress, anti-viral, helps in wound healing.
- Eucalyptus: For the de-congestant of respiration. As a de-tenser or sedative, it also on pain-sensing nerve-endings causing reduced muscle stiffness in muscles and tendons, so effective even for joints.
- Shatavari – Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory. Boost the immune system. Support the female reproductive system. Helps in treating excess pitta. Helps in treating wounds and ulcers.
- Ashwagandha – Antioxidants. Improves muscle strength, reduces anxiety and stress, and reduces insomnia.
- Black Pepper – Detoxifying, helps in weight loss, reduces cough and cold, reduces itching, irritation and redness of skin, has soothing and cleansing effects.
- Aloevera – – anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant. Helps in wound healing, reduces pain, improves skin tone, prevents wrinkles, improves hair health, improves digestion, and lowers blood sugar.
- Rock Salt – Boosts metabolism, relieves muscle cramps, and spasms, Treats sore throat, prevents oiliness, reduces acne, removes clogged dirt, relieves stress, and promotes healthy skin.
- Camphor – It helps to balance Kapha and Pitta doshas. It is very effective in cough, cold, congestion, and inflammation associated with these doshas.
Types of Potlis
There are mainly 3 types of Potlis : Podikizhi, Elakizhi & Navarakizhi. Potli massage intends to induce Sweda (Sweat). Elakizhi (Herbs potli) is known as Patra Pinda Sweda.
- Podikizhi -(Choorna (Powder) Potli)—This potli is made with churna, a fine powder of medicinal herbs. Massage done with such potlis is known as Churna Pinda Sweda. This massage is beneficial for Bone, joint, muscle, and nerve-related diseases.
- Navarakizhi (Rice Potli): This Potli is made with rice called ‘Navara’. This rice is cooked in milk, tied in a bundle of muslin cloth, and applied in a specific rhythm all over the body. This treatment is beneficial for muscle strengthening. Navarakizhi nourishes and rejuvenates the body.
- Elakizhi (Patra (Herbs) potli) – This potli is made with medicinal herbs and leaves. Leaves are fried in herbal oil and then bolus is prepared in linen cloths. The entire body is massaged with the heated potli.
How Does Potli Massage Work?
Applying heat with potli will open the pores of the skin and effective absorption of the herbs are take place. Due to heat the blood vessels are dilated which promotes blood flow, which in turn helps to relax tightened muscles. Herbs has many medicinal properties which helps in healing. Massage technique relaxes mind and body.
The Process of Potli Massage
- Prepare potli by Selecting herbs/churna in accordance with the person’s health condition, fill in a muslin cloth and tie with thick thread.
- Apply warm herbal oil or sesame oil to the entire body to give smooth gliding strokes with the Potli.
- Heat the potli in a steamer or dip the potli in heated herbal oil and massage gently with pressing and rolling strokes. Use different strokes such as tapping, pressing, gliding etc. while massaging. Give circular strokes on the shoulder and knee area. The technique may vary from person to person.
- After the treatment ask the person to drink plenty of water to hydrate the body and also flush toxins from the body.
A session usually takes 45 to 60 minutes.
Potli Massage Therapy for Specific Condition
- Arthritis: Ideal treatment for conditions like arthritis as it helps reduce pain and stiffness from the muscles and inflammation in joints.
- Insomnia: Reduces anxiety and stress, so helpful in insomnia. The calming effects improves sleep quality.
- Muscle Recovery: Helps in muscle recovery, bringing flexibility and mobility in joints, reducing soreness etc.
Reasons for choosing Potli massage
* All natural ingredients, no chemicals are used. So, no fear of side effects.
* Therapy is modified as per person’s health condition so safe to execute.
* Promotes both physical and mental relaxation.