Snehapana in Ayurveda

- Snehapana in Ayurveda: Snehapana is a form of internal oleation (Abhyantara Snehana) that plays a crucial role in Panchakarma therapy, categorized under Shadhvidhupkrama. It is essential for both Purvakarma of Shodhana therapy and as a primary treatment in various diseases. Snehapana is divided into three types based on effects: Brimhana (nourishing), Shamana (pacifying), and Shodhana (detoxification) Sneha.   

- Types and Administration: Snehana is administered externally (Bahya Snehana) through procedures like Abhyanga (massage) and internally as Snehapana. The internal oleation is further classified by action into Shodhana Sneha, Shamana Sneha, and Brimhana Sneha, each with specific dose and timing recommendations according to classical Ayurvedic texts.   

- Procedure and Preparations: Proper patient preparation includes assessment of health parameters, digestion status, and counseling. Snehapana is ideally taken after digestion of previous meals, with doses varying by type. Post-administration care involves rest, diet regulation, and avoidance of certain activities to ensure efficacy and safety.   

- Therapeutic Actions: Shodhana Snehapana mobilizes and expels aggravated doshas by facilitating their movement and detoxification via liver and bile pathways. Shamana Sneha normalizes doshas without expelling them, administered when there is hunger but no food intake. Brimhana Sneha nourishes and strengthens the body, administered with meals or specific timing to target different body regions.   

- Indications and Contraindications: Tables in the document list various diseases where Snehana is indicated, such as conditions with dryness, vata disorders, and weakness, and contraindications including dehydration, indigestion, pregnancy, and certain acute conditions. These classical guidelines ensure appropriate patient selection for Snehapana therapy.  

- Complications and Management: Potential complications from improper Snehapana include nausea, fever, skin issues, anorexia, indigestion, and others. Immediate cessation and supportive treatments like purgation, dry diet, and herbal remedies are recommended to manage adverse effects.  

- Conclusion on Safety and Efficacy: Despite transient increases in lipid levels during Snehapana, these normalize post-Shodhana therapy. Proper adherence to classical guidelines and supervision by qualified practitioners minimizes risks such as hyperlipidemia, making Snehapana a valuable and acceptable Panchakarma procedure.