External Therapy Protocol
Pralepa (Cooling Herbal Paste)
in Bengaluru
In Ayurveda, Lepa (paste application) is divided into types. Pralepa specifically refers to a paste made from cooling (Sheeta) herbs, applied thinly, and removed before it dries. It is the primary treatment for Pitta-dominant, burning, red, and inflamed conditions.
Clinical Benefits
- Instantly relieves severe burning sensations (Daha) in the skin or joints
- The best localized treatment for acute Gout (Vatarakta) flares where the joint is red-hot
- Soothes severe sunburns, acute eczema, and rosacea
- Reduces vascular inflammation and heat
Clinical Procedure
1. Preparation (Purvakarma)
- • Cooling herbs (like Sandalwood, Usheera, or Aloe Vera) are mixed with cold liquids (like Rose water or milk).
2. Main Action (Pradhana Karma)
The paste is applied in a thin layer (about 2-3 mm) over the hot, red area. It feels instantly soothing.
3. Post-Therapy (Paschatkarma)
- • CRITICAL: It must be gently removed while it is still wet. If allowed to dry, it stops cooling and traps the body heat inside, defeating the purpose.
Patient FAQs
Why do you wash it off before it dries?
When a wet paste is on the skin, evaporation causes a continuous cooling effect. Once the paste dries into a hard crust, it seals the pores, trapping the Pitta (heat) underneath and causing more pain.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Abhiram SSBAMS (Reg No: 36991)
Chief Consultant, Ayurvedic Rheumatology & Dermatology • Updated: 2026-07-24
Protocol Details
Duration
20 to 30 minutes (removed before drying).Frequency
Can be applied multiple times a day for acute burns or gout flares.Primary Indications
condition-goutcondition-eczemacondition-rosaceacondition-varicose-veins
Contraindications
- Cold, stiff, Vata-dominant swellings without heat (requires Pradeha instead)
- Severe chest congestion or asthma (applying cold pastes can trigger spasms)