Sirodhara using medicated oil is called Thailadhara. Different types of medicated oils are used depending on the condition of the patient. Firstly, suitable oils are applied on the head and body and then a gentle massage is done on the body. The patient is laid on his back to get the flow of the oil onto the forehead. After finishing the dhara, the patient is allowed to take rest for a few minutes. Then a hot water bath is given on the body and special medicated water is given for head bath.

Sirodhara using medicated milk is called Ksheeradhara. Pure cow’s milk is medicated with herbs like sandal wood, camphor, vetiver roots etc. After doing a gentle massage on the body and oil application on the head, this medicated milk is poured on the forehead of the person. The temperature of the milk is made lukewarm in the beginning and then maintained as room temperature throughout the process. Along with the dhara, a gentle massage on the body is also done. After that the head of the person is wiped well and the patient is allowed to take rest for a few minutes.

Sirodhara done by using medicated buttermilk is called Thakradhara. The medicated butter milk is made by mixing equal quantities of herbal decoction and butter milk. The buttermilk itself is medicated with some herbs depending on the condition. Firstly, suitable oil for the head and the body are applied and then a gentle massage is done on the body. Then the dhara starts with lukewarm buttermilk flowing on the forehead in a continuous stream. Along with that a gentle massage is done on the body without disturbing the head position. After that the patient is allowed to take rest for a few minutes.

Sirodhara done by using medicated herbal decoction is called Kashayadhara. Different types of herbal decoctions can be used depending on the condition. Firstly, suitable oil for the head and body are applied and then a gentle massage is done on the body. After finishing the dhara the patient is allowed to take rest for a few minutes.