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  2. Volume 2 | Issue 3 [July-September]
  3. PANCHAKARMA IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN DETOX AND SPA THERAPIES: BRIDGING TRADITIONAL AYURVEDA AND CONTEMPORARY WELLNESS PRACTICES
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Dr. Jalpa Gandhi

PANCHAKARMA IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN DETOX AND SPA THERAPIES: BRIDGING TRADITIONAL AYURVEDA AND CONTEMPORARY WELLNESS PRACTICES

Introduction: Panchakarma, a cornerstone of Ayurveda, encompasses detoxification and rejuvenation therapies aimed at maintaining physiological balance and enhancing wellness. In the modern wellness industry, detox and spa therapies have gained global popularity for health promotion and preventive care. Exploring the alignment between Panchakarma and contemporary spa therapies provides insight into integrative health strategies. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya. Inclusion criteria included clinical trials, observational studies, systematic reviews, and authoritative Ayurvedic literature addressing Panchakarma, detox therapies, and spa interventions. Exclusion criteria comprised non-peer-reviewed publications, case reports, and studies with inadequate methodological detail. Results: Panchakarma procedures such as Virechana, Basti, and Abhyanga demonstrate physiological benefits including detoxification, stress reduction, metabolic regulation, and improved skin and musculoskeletal health. Modern spa therapies, including massage, hydrotherapy, and sauna treatments, share similar wellness objectives. Comparative analysis reveals overlaps in therapeutic outcomes and highlights the potential for integrative protocols combining Ayurvedic and contemporary practices. Discussion: Panchakarma provides evidence-based frameworks for detoxification and rejuvenation that can inform modern spa and wellness practices. Despite promising results, challenges remain in standardizing procedures, measuring outcomes, and ensuring scientific validation. Future prospects include clinical trials, mechanistic studies, and development of integrative wellness protocols bridging traditional Ayurveda with modern spa therapies.

 

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Detoxification, Panchakarma, Spa Therapy, Wellness