Eladi Keram is a classical Ayurvedic herbal oil prepared using the traditional Eladi Gana (a group of aromatic, skin-supportive herbs described in the Ashtanga Hridayam and Sushruta Samhita).
It is widely used in Kerala Ayurveda Practices for head massage, body application, and external therapies.
The formulation is known for its fragrance, cleansing action, and its ability to balance Vata and Kapha doshas, especially when aggravated over the skin and respiratory system.
Because of its warming nature, it is commonly applied for conditions presenting with itching, roughness, or patches.
The ingredients of Eladi Keram may vary across classical and regional formulations, but the core principle remains unchanged.
It is an aromatic herbal oil blend prepared to support healthy skin, maintain respiratory comfort, facilitate balanced dosha movement, and promote overall sensory ease.
IngredientsÂ
Base Oil
Coconut oil
Herbal Paste (Kalka) Ingredients
Ela (Elettaria cardamomum)
Sthoola Ela (Amomum subulatum)
Turushka (Hydnocarpus laurifolia)
Kushta (Saussurea lappa)
Phalini (Callicarpa macrophylla)
Mamsi (Nardostachys jatamansi)
Jaladhyamaka (Coleus zeylanicus)
Sprikka (Anisomeles malabarica)
Choraka (Angelica archangelica)
Chochapatra (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
Tagara (Valeriana wallichii)
Sthauneya (Taxus baccata)
Jati (Myristica fragrans)
Rasa (Commiphora myrrha)
Shukti (Ostrea edulis)
Vyaghranakha (Capparis sepiaria)
Marahva (Cedrus deodara)
Aguru (Aquilaria agallocha)
Shrivasaka (Pinus longifolia)
Kumkuma (Crocus sativus)
Chanda (Costus speciosus)
Guggulu (Commiphora mukul)
Devadhupa (Shorea robusta)
Khapura (Boswellia serrata)
Punnaga (Calophyllum inophyllum)
Nagahva (Mesua ferrea)
Ayurvedic properties of Eladi Keram
- Dosha Karma: Vata-Kapha Shamana (balances aggravated Vata and Kapha doshas).
- Guna: Aromatic, warm, gentle, and penetrating.
- Dhatukarma: Blood purifying (Raktadoshaharam) and lipolytic agent (medoharam).
- Srotokarma: Acts on Rasavaha and Shleshmavaha srotas; supports proper flow by reducing stagnation.
- Lakshanika Karma: Assist in wound healing (Ropana) and acts as a scraping or cleansing agent (Lekhana)
Use of Eladi Keram in Ayurvedic Treatment
Eladi Keram is widely used for:
- Shiroabhyanga (head oiling)
- Abhyanga (body massage)
- Used for abhyanga before kizhi and other swedana procedures
How does Eladi Keram work
Eladi Keram works through:
- Aromatic penetration: Its aromatic herbs help open skin pores and promote natural cleansing at the epidermal level.
- Warming action: The hot potency (Ushna veerya) of this oil supports the movement of Vata and helps regulate Kapha accumulation.
- Srotoshodhana: Clears channels associated with skin nutrition (Rasavaha) and moisture retention (Shleshmavaha).
- Micro-circulatory support: Promotes gentle stimulation across the skin surface, supporting even tone and comfort.
- Rakta-twak nourishment: Acts at the level of skin tissue and blood, helping maintain normal complexion and softness.
Conditions Eladi Keram helps to treat
- Itching
- Fungal patches / Tinea-like conditions
- Discolouration
- Eczema-like symptoms
- Hives
- Insect bite marks
- Dermatitis
- Skin roughness
- Scalp dryness
- Dandruff
- Psoriasis-associated dryness
- Acne-type eruptions
- Wounds from bites or minor toxins
- Respiratory conditions
Benefits of Eladi Keram
- Balances Vata-Kapha doshas over the skin
- Can help maintain skin clarity and natural brightness
- Helps the skin stay soft due to the aromatic oil base
- Provides a soothing and warming sensation
- Traditionally used for comfortable scalp and hair care
- Helps maintain an even complexion with regular external use
- Supports healthy sweat gland function during massage
- Offers a cleansing effect suitable for humid climates
- Helps maintain skin hygiene due to fumigatory herbs
Directions for usage
- Warm slightly and apply externally over scalp or body.
- Massage gently in circular strokes.
- Leave for 20 to 45 minutes before bathing, depending on individual tolerance.
- It can be used daily for a head massage or as advised by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Interaction with other medicines
- Usually safe externally when used with other topical Ayurvedic oils.
- If under dermatological treatment, consult a physician before combined use.
- Avoid mixing with very cooling oils unless instructed.
Side effects
- Rarely may irritate extremely sensitive skin.
- Warm nature may not suit individuals with high Pitta conditions on the scalp.
- Allergic reactions are possible in people sensitive to aromatic herbs or resins.
Who should avoid it
- Individuals with active scalp infections (unless advised).
- People with extremely sensitive, highly Pitta-dominant, inflamed skin.
- Those allergic to nutmeg, frankincense, saffron, or aromatic resins.
How to keep this medicine
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Keep the bottle tightly closed.
- Keep the bottle out of reach of children
FAQ
How to use Eladi Keram for skin conditions?
Take the required quantity of oil and apply as a thin layer over the affected area. Leave for the recommended time before washing off with lukewarm water.
When to apply Eladi Keram?
Eladi keram can be applied before bath, in the morning. Avoid applying immediately before going out in the sun.
Can I use Eladi Keram internally?
Internal use is mentioned in classical texts only under strict supervision and not as a standard practice. Do not use internally without an Ayurvedic physician’s explicit guidance.
Conclusion
Eladi Keram is a classical Ayurvedic formulation known for its aromatic herbal blend, traditionally used in external applications for skin and respiratory-related concerns involving Vata-Kapha imbalance. Its extensive combination of herbs, resins and natural substances reflects the depth of Ayurvedic wisdom, making it a suitable choice in routines aimed at supporting skin and respiratory comfort, cleansing and overall skin rejuvenation.
