Vaman is one of the five Panchkarma procedures in Ayurveda. It aims to eliminate excess Kapha Dosha from the body. The therapeutic removal of excess Kapha through the oral route is known as Vaman. The Vaman Panchkarma procedure consists of three main stages.

1. Purvakarma (Preparatory Procedure)

Purvakarma prepares the body for the main Vaman procedure. It includes the following steps:

a) Langhan, Deepan, and Pachana: These procedures help promote Agni (digestive fire).

b) Snehana and Abhyangam: These involve oleation and therapeutic oil massage.

c) Swedana: This refers to sudation or sweating therapy.

2. Pradhan Karma (Main Procedure)

Pradhan Karma is the main stage of Vaman Panchkarma. The patient drinks Yashtimadhu Phanta until the stomach feels full. This step is known as Aakantha Pan.

After Aakantha Pan, the process of therapeutic vomiting begins. The procedure aims to eliminate accumulated Doshas through the oral route. Traditionally, practitioners expect approximately eight Vegas (bouts of vomiting) for proper detoxification.

3. Paschat Karma (Post-Procedure Care)

Paschat Karma refers to dietary management after the Vaman procedure. It involves gradually returning to a normal diet.

The patient starts with light foods and gradually progresses towards a regular diet. This step supports the body’s recovery after the procedure.