kalaripayattu

Even today, Marma vidya and Marma chikitsa are part of Kalaripayattu training. In fact, Kalari chikitsa boasts of many a traditional panacea that is not very popularly used in Ayurvedic treatment.

Stroking and caressing serve not only to show affection but help relieve pain as well. This feature of behaviour is found in animals too. The cow licking its calf is an expression of love. Equally, by the process of gently caressing, veins and arteries can be rejuvenated, and thereby pain lessened. An awareness of this physiological peculiarity was what caused the evolution of Uzhichil as a scientifically developed treatment procedure. Charaka, Sushruta and Vagbhata emphasize the importance of Uzhichil and Pizhichil. Oil massage is known to improve blood circulation. Uzhichil is also helpful in removing oedema in various cells, reducing obesity and improving digestion.