External Therapy Protocol
Kalka (Fresh Herbal Paste Application)
in Bengaluru
Kalka refers to a fresh, wet paste made by crushing green, living medicinal plants (or dry powders mixed with liquids) in a mortar and pestle. Unlike Lepam, which is often a prepared dry powder mix, Kalka is used freshly for immediate first-aid, wound packing, and acute bites.
Clinical Benefits
- Provides immediate astringent action to stop bleeding from fresh wounds
- Draws out venom and soothes pain from insect stings and bites
- Packs and cleanses deep, non-healing ulcers
- Highly potent due to the use of fresh, active plant juices
Clinical Procedure
1. Preparation (Purvakarma)
- • Fresh herbs (like Neem, Turmeric, or Aloe) are crushed thoroughly until they form a homogenous bolus (Kalka).
2. Main Action (Pradhana Karma)
The fresh paste is applied directly onto the wound, bite, or affected skin. For deep ulcers, the Kalka may be packed into the cavity.
3. Post-Therapy (Paschatkarma)
- • The area is often bandaged lightly to hold the paste in place.
- • Removed and replaced daily.
Patient FAQs
How is Kalka different from Lepam?
Kalka is usually a freshly crushed paste of living herbs (like crushing a fresh neem leaf) used immediately for high potency, often for wounds. Lepam is usually made by mixing pre-dried herbal powders with a liquid.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Abhiram SSBAMS (Reg No: 36991)
Chief Consultant, Ayurvedic Rheumatology & Dermatology • Updated: 2026-07-24
Protocol Details
Duration
Applied and retained for several hours or overnight.Frequency
As needed for wounds or acute skin issues.Primary Indications
condition-eczemacondition-hemorrhoidscondition-diabetic-neuropathy
Contraindications
- Deep, infected puncture wounds (where packing might trap anaerobic bacteria without proper cleaning)
- Severe allergies to the fresh plant sap