Pichu is a gentle, sustained oil therapy in which a thick pad of sterile cotton or gauze is soaked in warm medicated oil and placed over a specific region, held in position and re-warmed so the oil works into the area over time. It combines local oleation (snehana) and mild fomentation in one focused treatment.
It is named for the site treated – Shiro Pichu over the head, Kati Pichu over the low back, Greeva Pichu over the neck, Janu Pichu over the knee. At ACTYMED it is used chiefly for degenerative spine conditions, chronic localised pain and dryness, where prolonged contact with a medicated oil is the aim.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is it performed?
Preparation (purva karma): the oil is warmed and the site prepared. Main procedure (pradhana karma): an oil-soaked pad is laid over the region and retained, commonly for 30 to 45 minutes, with the oil topped up to keep it warm. Aftercare (paschat karma): the area is wiped, kept warm and cold exposure avoided.
Which conditions is it used for?
Lumbar disc and spondylosis pain, cervical spondylosis, knee osteoarthritis, and – over the head – insomnia, tension headache and hair and scalp concerns.
How is it different from Kati Basti?
Kati Basti holds a reservoir of warm oil within a dough ring on the site; Pichu uses an oil-soaked pad. Both aim at prolonged local oleation and are sometimes used in sequence.
Who should avoid it?
Infected or broken skin, active fever and known oil allergy, which is screened first.
How often is it done?
Typically as a short daily course as part of a plan.
