Panchakarma

Udhvarthanam

Vigorous herbal-powder massage with upward strokes

A brisk, friction-based Ayurvedic body treatment.

Technique: Firm upward strokes Setting: Private treatment room Texture: Dry or lightly oiled
Therapist rubbing coarse herbal powder along a seated man's supported lower leg, with his other foot resting naturally on the floor
BAMS-led care: Pranavam’s Ayurveda doctors lead and supervise Ayurveda and Panchakarma care. Trained therapists carry out hands-on treatments to the agreed plan. Meet the clinical team →

What it is

A herbal powder blend is worked across the body in firm, upward strokes, either dry or softened with a little oil.

The dry version keeps the powder texture prominent; adding a small amount of oil softens the blend without turning it into a flowing oil massage. In either form, the session remains brisk and friction-based, with the repeated upward direction across each area of the body defining the technique.

Who it suits

  • People seeking vigorous, exfoliating bodywork.
  • Those who prefer dry treatment to an oil massage.
  • Those comfortable with firm-pressure bodywork.

Check before booking

  • Pregnant or recently postpartum.
  • Sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, active rashes.
  • Herb allergies.
  • Easy bruising or blood thinners.
  • Fever, infection or recent injury.

Before the session

Eat lightly. Note any skin sensitivity, eczema or herb allergy.

After

Allow time to rest. Avoid harsh cleansers and other exfoliants for at least 24 hours.

Related treatments

Other Panchakarma therapies

Request a Udhvarthanam appointment.