Herbal Pattu Therapy – Traditional Healing Through Medicated Paste
What is Pattu Therapy?
Pattu is a classical external treatment used in Siddha and Ayurvedic medicine, where a freshly prepared herbal paste is applied to the affected part of the body to reduce inflammation, pain, swelling, or skin irritation. The word “Pattu” in Tamil refers to “applying a thick layer” of herbal paste directly on the skin.
This therapy draws its strength from the potency of fresh herbs, which are ground and mixed with medicated oils, juices, or decoctions, and tailored based on the individual’s body constitution (prakriti) and disease condition.
Conditions Treated with Pattu (Medicated Paste)
- Joint pain, arthritis, and swelling
- Muscle cramps and sprains
- Skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, and abscesses
- Non-healing wounds or localized infections
- Varicose veins and vascular inflammation
- Inflammatory conditions due to Vata-Pitta imbalance
How It Works (Traditional View)
According to Siddha and Ayurvedic principles, the skin serves as a powerful channel of absorption. When medicated paste is applied externally:
- It draws out toxins, soothes inflamed tissues, and reduces local heat and swelling
- It pacifies aggravated doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta
- It provides a cooling or warming effect depending on the herbs used (e.g., turmeric, neem, castor, vetiver)
The paste is typically left on the affected area for a specific period and then gently removed.
Benefits of Pattu Therapy
- Natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic action
- Reduces swelling and improves local circulation
- Promotes tissue healing and skin regeneration
- Cools or warms the tissues based on need
- Safe for chronic pain, without chemical side effects