Kizhi therapy is a deep ayurvedic massage that is done with Kizhi (Potli massage), filled with a variety of herbal mixtures, herbal powders and medicines, medicinal rice or sand. The warmth of the Potlis, combined with the active ingredients of the herbs and oils helps to improve circulation, reduce body stiffness, pain and relax the muscles. It is used to treat conditions like arthritis, spondylitis, fibromyalgia, any type of rheumatism, and general or chronic pain in any part of the body.
This therapy can be very useful if undergone after the proper diagnosis of disease based on the parameters of Ayurveda. Based on the diagnosis and nature of ailments, kizhi has been divided into three types in Panchakarma that are used for the treatment of different diseases – Podikizhi, Elakizhi and Njavarakizhi.