What Is Ayurvedic Potli Massage? How Does It Help with Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation?

Question

I’ve been reading about Ayurvedic Potli massage, which uses herbal poultices (Potlis) filled with medicinal herbs to provide relief for muscle pain, joint stiffness, and inflammation. I’m interested in knowing how Potli massage works for pain relief and muscle relaxation, especially for conditions like arthritis, back pain, and sports injuries.

Some types of Potli massage include Podi Kizhi, which uses herbal powder to relax the muscles, and Ela Kizhi, which uses herbal leaves for joint pain. I’m curious to know how effective this therapy is for long-term pain management.

If anyone has experienced Ayurvedic Potli massage, please share your experience. Did it help with reducing pain, improving flexibility, or relieving muscle tension? How many sessions did you need to feel the effects, and did the results last long-term?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurvedic Potli massage is a highly effective therapy for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and joint stiffness. It involves the use of herbal poultices (Potlis) filled with medicinal herbs, which are heated and applied to affected areas to reduce pain, improve circulation, and relieve inflammation.

Types of Potli Massage & Benefits:
Podi Kizhi (Herbal Powder Potli): Used for muscle relaxation, stiffness, and inflammation relief.
Ela Kizhi (Leaf Potli): Effective for arthritis, joint pain, and detoxifying the body.
Njavara Kizhi (Rice Potli): Helps with nourishing tissues, strengthening muscles, and rejuvenation.
How Potli Massage Works for Pain Relief:
✔ Improves Blood Circulation – Enhances oxygen supply to muscles and joints.
✔ Reduces Muscle Tension & Stiffness – Warms and relaxes sore muscles.
✔ Relieves Chronic Pain (Arthritis, Back Pain, Injuries) – Herbal heat therapy reduces inflammation.
✔ Detoxifies & Promotes Healing – Opens pores and helps remove toxins from tissues.

Results & Session Recommendations:
Immediate Relief: Some people feel relaxation after 1–2 sessions.
Long-Term Benefits: A course of 5–7 sessions is ideal for chronic pain relief.
Frequency: Weekly or biweekly sessions help maintain long-term relief.
For best results, Potli massage is often combined with Abhyanga (oil massage), Ayurvedic medicines, and lifestyle modifications. If you have chronic pain, consulting an Ayurvedic doctor can help tailor the treatment to your needs.

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