Alleviating Knee Joint Disorders With Ayurvedic Janu Dhara Therapy – A Review Article

Abstract

Janu Dhara is an Ayurvedic procedure where lukewarm medicated oil is poured over the knee joint for a certain period with the help of a Dhara Patra. The word Janu refers to knee and Dhara means to pour, mainly medicated oil. It is a very unique procedure mentioned as ‘Snehayukta Swedana’ due to the fact that it comprises both Snehana (therapeutic oleation) and Swedana (sudation therapy). The Taila (oil) used for this procedure does the Snehana and due to the Agni Samyoga in this procedure it has the resulting Swedana effect. Janu Dhara is advised in painful conditions caused mainly by Vata Dosha, usually for degenerative diseases, stiffness associated with bone, joint and or musculoskeletal pains, it relieves swelling and inflammation in the knee joint. At the end of the procedure perspiration is noticed and an increased range of motion can be observed. Previous clinical studies also suggest the efficacy of Janu Dhara in knee joint pain. Janu Dhara helps to tone muscles, provides lubrication and improves the working mobility of the joint. Keywords: Ayurveda, Janu Dhara, Knee Joint, Panchakarma