External Therapy Protocol
Shiro Lepa (Tala Pothichil / Head Pack)
in Bengaluru
Shiro Lepa (traditionally called Tala Pothichil in Kerala) involves applying a thick, cooling medicinal paste over the entire scalp, which is then bound with leaves (like banana or lotus leaves). It is a profoundly cooling and calming therapy.
Clinical Benefits
- Highly effective for severe insomnia, anxiety, and psychiatric disorders
- Rapidly cools the brain, relieving severe migraines and burning sensations
- Excellent for treating severe dandruff, scalp psoriasis, and hair fall
- Stabilizes the nervous system and reduces high blood pressure
Clinical Procedure
1. Preparation (Purvakarma)
- • A thick paste is prepared using herbs like Amalaki, Brahmi, and buttermilk (Takra).
2. Main Action (Pradhana Karma)
The patient's hair is parted, and the paste is applied thickly (about 1 cm) over the entire scalp. The head is then covered completely with a large plantain (banana) or lotus leaf and tied securely with a cloth bandage.
3. Post-Therapy (Paschatkarma)
- • The pack is retained for 45 to 60 minutes.
- • The paste is removed, the head is wiped, and Rasnadi Churna is applied to the crown to prevent catching a cold.
Patient FAQs
Why do you tie a banana leaf over the head?
The banana leaf is naturally cooling and non-porous. It prevents the herbal paste from drying out quickly, allowing the medicinal juices and cooling effect to continuously penetrate the scalp for the full duration of the therapy.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Abhiram SSBAMS (Reg No: 36991)
Chief Consultant, Ayurvedic Rheumatology & Dermatology • Updated: 2026-07-24
Protocol Details
Duration
45 to 60 minutes.Frequency
7 to 14 days.Primary Indications
condition-insomniacondition-generalized-anxiety-disordercondition-migrainecondition-hypertension
Contraindications
- Cold, rainy seasons, or extreme winter
- Severe asthma, heavy chest congestion, or acute sinusitis
- Fever