Sirodhara Treatment — Benefits, Procedure, and Cost
Source: AyurConnect Editorial
Sirodhara — continuous warm medicated oil stream on the forehead — is among the most evocative Kerala therapies. It is also one of the most clinically supported.
**Procedure.** Patient lies supine. Warm medicated oil (typically Ksheerabala or Brahmi Tailam) is poured in a continuous stream onto the Ajna point (mid-forehead) from a hanging vessel, for 45-60 minutes per session.
**Indications.** Insomnia, anxiety, migraine, hypertension, chronic stress, PTSD, premature greying, hair fall.
**Evidence.** Multiple peer-reviewed studies (Uebaba K, J Altern Complement Med 2008) document Sirodhara's effects on EEG (increased alpha waves), cortisol reduction, and reduced anxiety scores. Among the best-documented Ayurvedic procedures.
**Course.** 7-14 daily sessions for therapeutic benefit. 21 sessions for chronic insomnia.
**Cost.** ₹1,000-2,500 per session at verified Kerala centres. Total course ₹15,000-50,000.
**Best centres.** Arya Vaidya Sala Kottakkal, Vaidyaratnam Ollur, Somatheeram (resort-format), Kalari Kovilakom (luxury), Sanjeevanam (clinical-format).
**Variations.** Takra Dhara (medicated buttermilk) for Pitta-Vata pattern. Ksheera Dhara (medicated milk) for severe Vata.
**Contraindications.** Acute cold/cough, very low BP, recent head injury, alcohol intoxication on the day.
**Pairs well with.** Abhyanga (full body massage) + Shirobhyanga (head massage) as a 75-90 minute combined daily session.
--- _AI-generated educational content — pending medical review. For diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a verified BAMS / MD-Ayurveda doctor. Find one at https://ayurconnect.com/doctors._ _Author: AyurConnect Editorial._