Upanaha Sweda (Herbal Poultice Wrap)
Upanaha Sweda
A warm herbal paste is applied over a painful joint or area and bandaged in place to give sustained, localised sudation for stubborn pain and swelling.
reduces Vataneutral for Pittareduces Kapha
What it involves
A medicated paste (often with fermenting or heating herbs) is spread over the affected part, covered with a leaf and bandaged, and left for several hours; the retained warmth and herbs relieve pain and stiffness.
Traditionally used for
- chronic joint pain and stiffness
- localised swelling
- muscular pain
- Vata and Vata-Kapha disorders
Contraindications & cautions
- acute hot, red inflammation
- broken or infected skin
- allergy to poultice ingredients
Questions to ask a practitioner
- Which paste and how long should it stay wrapped?
- How often should this be repeated?
Evidence notes
A classical localised sudation for chronic Vata pain; not for acutely inflamed hot joints.
Classical sources
- Charaka Samhita — Sutrasthana 14 — Swedadhyaya (Upanaha)
- Sushruta Samhita — Chikitsa Sthana 4 — Swedana
Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.