Ama is a sticky, toxic residue created from undigested food particles and other waste materials when our digestive powers are weak. In ayurveda, the accumulation of ama in our cells and tissues is considered the underlying cause of disease and illness. Ama clogs the body's circulation channels, preventing the healthy flow of energy and information throughout the system. Ama can manifest in a variety of ways. For example, you may experience a build-up of mucus that restricts the airflow through your nasal passages. Or ama may accumulate as plaque in your arteries, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack.

Symptoms of ama include loss of appetite, indigestion, tongue-coating, bad breath, fatigue, depression, inability to concentrate, susceptibility to infections, and generalized pain.

Panchakarma is a profound detoxification and cleansing therapy that enables the body to release ama through a powerful combination of daily massage treatments, herbalized oil-based enemas (bastis), a cleansing diet, and other gentle therapies.

Panchakarma is the cornerstone of The Chopra Center’s weekly Perfect Health program, which combines specific foundational teachings, intellectual guidance, and daily experiential practice with deep ayurvedic healing therapies. To learn more, please call 888.736.6895 or request more information here.