Chakrataila (Cakrataila)

Modern description

A medicated oil used for anointing and sprinkling, especially in wound care, to promote healing and reduce inflammation. It can also be used in Shirodhara treatment to help with insomnia and balancing the doshas.

Purpose

Anointing

Indications

• Vata disorders, inflammatory conditions, Vrana (wounds), skin diseases, poisoning, tumors (Arbuda), edema, and diseases of the female reproductive system.

Classical indications

• Kushtha (skin diseases)
• Vrana (wounds)
• Bhagna (fractures)

Karma

• Vatahara
• Shothahara
• Vranaropana
• Vishaghna

Key ingredients

• Tila Taila
• Dadhi
• Kanji
• Mastu
• Mutra
• Kalka of
• Tagara
• Devadaru
• Ela
• Manjishta
• Haridra
• Daruharidra
• Choraka
• Sariva
• Rakta Chandana
• Lodhra

Adult dose

5-10 ml for internal use or as directed by an Ayurvedic physician. For external use, apply liberally to the affected area.

Pediatric dose

For external application only. Use with caution on sensitive skin.

Preparation steps

• Collection of raw materials: Collect all the necessary herbs and base oil (Tila taila). Ensure they are of good quality and properly identified.
• Preparation of Kashaya (Decoction): If the formulation requires a decoction, prepare it by boiling the prescribed herbs in water until the water reduces to one-fourth of the original quantity.
• Preparation of Kalka (Paste): Some formulations require a paste of certain herbs. Grind the herbs with a little water to make a fine paste.
• Sneha Paka (Oil Processing): Combine the base oil (Tila taila), Kashaya (if applicable), and Kalka (if applicable) in a suitable vessel.
• Heat the mixture: Heat the mixture on a low flame, maintaining a constant temperature. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
• Observe for Taila Paka Siddha Lakshanas (Signs of proper oil processing): Look for the signs of proper oil processing, such as the disappearance of moisture, frothing, and a change in the color and aroma of the oil.
• Filtration: Once the oil is processed, allow it to cool slightly and then filter it through a clean cloth to remove any solid particles.
• Storage: Store the oil in a clean, airtight container away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Safety contraindications

• Avoid in cases of severe burns or open, actively bleeding wounds. Contraindicated in individuals with Kapha aggravation.