Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

Top Ayurveda Virechana Therapy Resorts and Retreats in Rajasthan, India

Veda5 Ayurveda & Yoga Wellness Retreat:

• Location: Rishikesh, Kerala & Goa, India

• Details: Virechana therapy at Veda5 is part of their Panchakarma treatments, emphasizing detoxification and purification, particularly for disorders associated with Pitta dosha like gall stones, liver disorders, and digestive issues.

• Package Duration and Pricing: Specific details about the duration and pricing for the Virechana therapy aren't directly provided but generally, Panchakarma treatments at such specialized retreats can range widely in price depending on the duration and specifics of the treatment plan.

About Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

Virechana therapy is a significant Ayurvedic treatment focusing on purgation to eliminate toxins, particularly targeting the excess of Pitta dosha from the body. It's one of the five primary procedures in Panchakarma, the comprehensive Ayurvedic detoxification regimen.

History of Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

Ancient Origins

Virechana therapy, like many Ayurvedic practices, has its roots in the ancient texts of India, notably the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, which date back to around 500 BCE to 1000 BCE. These texts describe Virechana as a therapeutic purgation technique used to eliminate toxins from the body, particularly from the liver and the gallbladder, to balance the body’s Pitta dosha (bio-energy).

Practice in Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, the practice of Virechana and other Ayurvedic treatments has been influenced by the region’s own medicinal plant biodiversity and the local adaptations of traditional Ayurvedic principles. The arid climate and unique flora of Rajasthan have led to the use of specific local herbs in Virechana formulations, which may differ from those used in other regions.

Integration with Royal Patronage

Historically, the kingdoms in Rajasthan showed great patronage towards Ayurveda. The royal families and their court physicians, often Ayurvedic experts, played a significant role in preserving and nurturing Ayurvedic practices including Virechana therapy. This support helped in the research and development of herbal medicines and ensured that Ayurvedic traditions thrived alongside modern medical advancements.

Evolution Over Centuries

Over the centuries, as Ayurveda evolved, so did the practices around Virechana. Physicians began to incorporate more rigorous diagnostic criteria to determine the appropriateness of Virechana for each individual. Enhancements in the preparation of herbal concoctions and the procedural steps of Virechana were also made, making it safer and more effective.

Modern Adaptations

In contemporary times, Virechana therapy is practiced in Ayurvedic hospitals and wellness centers across Rajasthan as part of detoxification and therapeutic regimens. These centers often combine traditional knowledge with modern healthcare practices to optimize the safety and efficacy of the treatment.

Educational and Promotional Efforts

In recent decades, there has been a concerted effort in Rajasthan to educate both practitioners and the public about the benefits of Virechana and other Ayurvedic treatments. Institutions that specialize in Ayurvedic medicine contribute to research and provide training in traditional methods, ensuring the survival and relevance of these practices in modern healthcare.

Cultural Significance

Virechana, beyond its health benefits, is also part of the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. It represents a holistic view of health that is deeply intertwined with the spiritual and philosophical traditions of the region.

Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan for Foreigners

1. Understanding Virechana Therapy

Virechana is a purgation therapy designed to cleanse the body by eliminating toxins mainly through the digestive tract. It targets the Pitta dosha, which according to Ayurveda governs metabolism and can cause health issues when imbalanced. The therapy is carefully planned and monitored by Ayurvedic practitioners.

2. Initial Consultation

For foreigners, the process typically begins with an in-depth consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor. This includes a detailed health assessment to understand the individual's doshic balance and medical history. It’s crucial to determine if Virechana is suitable for them, considering their physical condition, dietary habits, and tolerance to herbal medicines.

3. Preparation Phase

Before undergoing Virechana, there is a preparation phase (Purvakarma), which involves internal and external oleation (Snehana) and fomentation (Swedana). These steps help to mobilize the toxins towards the gastrointestinal tract and are essential to ensure the effectiveness of the therapy. This phase can also include dietary adjustments and the administration of medicated ghee.

4. Administration of Virechana

The actual Virechana procedure is conducted under the supervision of Ayurvedic physicians. A specific medicinal concoction, usually a herbal laxative, is given to induce therapeutic purging. The composition of this concoction is carefully chosen based on the individual’s constitution and health needs.

5. Post-Therapy Care

After Virechana, there is a post-treatment phase (Paschatkarma) that includes dietary management and lifestyle adjustments to stabilize the body’s systems. Special diets are prescribed to gradually reintroduce food and assist in the healing process.

6. Cultural Sensitivity and Communication

Centers that cater to foreigners are typically staffed with professionals who can communicate effectively in English or other major languages, ensuring that the nuances of the treatment and the patient's needs are fully understood and addressed.

7. Integrated Wellness Programs

Many Ayurvedic centers in Rajasthan offer comprehensive wellness programs that include Virechana along with other therapies like massage, yoga, and meditation, providing a holistic approach to health.

8. Safety and Standards

Facilities catering to international visitors adhere to high standards of hygiene and professional practice to ensure safety and effectiveness. They are often certified by relevant health authorities and may provide additional support services like travel assistance and accommodation.

9. Tailored Experiences

Understanding that foreigners might be new to Ayurvedic practices, these centers often provide educational sessions to help them understand the principles of Ayurveda and the rationale behind various treatments.

10. Touristic Appeals

Rajasthan itself offers a vibrant cultural experience, and many visitors combine their health treatments with sightseeing, making their therapeutic journey also a culturally enriching experience.

A range of Virechana Therapy Therapies and Treatments in Rajasthan

1. Preparatory Treatments (Purvakarma)

Before the actual Virechana therapy, several preparatory treatments are necessary to ensure the body is ready for detoxification:

• Deepana and Pachana: These treatments involve the intake of herbs that stimulate digestion and metabolism to prepare the body for detoxification.

• Snehana (Internal and External Oleation): This involves the consumption of medicated ghee or oils over several days, as well as oil-based massages, to lubricate the body internally and externally, helping mobilize the toxins.

• Swedana (Therapeutic Sweating): Following Snehana, therapeutic sweating is induced using steam baths or heated herbal compresses to further loosen toxins in the body.

2. Main Virechana Procedure

The core of Virechana therapy is the controlled purgation using herbal laxatives, which are administered to expel the loosened doshas (toxic substances) from the body:

• Herbal Laxatives: A specially prepared herbal concoction is given to the patient to induce purgation. Common ingredients might include senna, triphala, or castor oil, chosen according to the individual’s constitution and specific health needs.

3. Post-Therapy Treatments (Paschatkarma)

After the main Virechana procedure, post-therapy treatments are crucial for helping the body recover and re-establish equilibrium:

• Diet Regulation (Samsarjana Krama): A special graduated diet is introduced, starting with light foods like rice water and gradually moving to more substantial meals to restore digestive power.

• Restoration Therapies: Gentle massages with medicated oils and mild rejuvenative treatments help restore the body’s strength and balance.

4. Supportive Therapies

In addition to these main components, various supportive therapies may be provided to enhance the effectiveness of Virechana:

• Herbal Teas and Decoctions: Specific herbal drinks are given to support the digestive system and assist in the detoxification process.

• Yoga and Meditation: Gentle yoga practices and meditation are often recommended to support mental and physical well-being during the detox process.

5. Lifestyle and Dietary Advice

Post-treatment, patients receive comprehensive advice on lifestyle and diet to maintain the benefits of the therapy:

• Ayurvedic Lifestyle Practices: Guidance on daily routines, sleep patterns, and stress management techniques.

• Dietary Recommendations: Tailored advice on foods that are beneficial or should be avoided to keep the Pitta dosha balanced.

6. Follow-up and Maintenance

Regular follow-up sessions are recommended to monitor the patient’s health and make any necessary adjustments to their lifestyle or diet to ensure long-term benefits from the Virechana therapy.

Benefits of Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

1. Toxin Removal

Virechana helps in the effective elimination of toxins (ama) and excess Pitta from the body, particularly from the liver and gastrointestinal tract. This deep cleansing restores the body's innate ability to heal and prevents the accumulation of future toxins.

2. Enhanced Digestive Function

By removing toxins and balancing the Pitta dosha, Virechana can significantly improve digestive health. It helps resolve issues such as indigestion, acid reflux, and irregular bowel movements, and increases the overall efficiency of the digestive system.

3. Skin Health Improvement

Pitta imbalance is often linked to skin disorders like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Virechana therapy helps clear skin inflammation and improves complexion by detoxifying the blood and reducing Pitta-related skin issues.

4. Reduction in Chronic Pain

Conditions like arthritis and gout, which are associated with toxic buildup and inflammation, can be alleviated through Virechana. The therapy reduces inflammation and pain by expelling the toxins that contribute to these conditions.

5. Immune System Boost

By eliminating toxins and balancing the body's doshas, Virechana strengthens the immune system. A cleaner internal environment allows the body’s natural defenses to function more effectively, reducing the frequency of illnesses.

6. Mental Clarity and Stress Reduction

Virechana can have a calming effect on the mind by reducing the excess Pitta that is often associated with emotional turmoil. Patients often report improvements in mental clarity and reductions in stress and anxiety levels following therapy.

7. Weight Management

By improving metabolism and removing bodily waste, Virechana can also aid in weight loss and management. This is particularly effective when combined with appropriate diet and lifestyle modifications as advised by Ayurvedic practitioners.

8. Regulation of Metabolism

Virechana helps in regulating metabolism by balancing Pitta dosha. This is crucial not just for weight management but also for overall energy levels and bodily functions.

9. Prevention of Diseases

Regular Virechana therapy, as part of a holistic Ayurvedic lifestyle, can help prevent the onset of diseases by maintaining the doshic balance and ensuring the effective functioning of the body’s organs and systems.

10. Cultural and Recreational Benefits

Undergoing Virechana in Rajasthan adds the advantage of experiencing this traditional therapy in its cultural context, often within settings that are conducive to relaxation and healing, such as Ayurvedic resorts or traditional wellness centers.

Duration of Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

• Preparatory Phase (Poorvakarma): This phase involves internal and external oleation followed by sudation for several days. Typically, the internal oleation with medicated ghee lasts for 3-7 days, depending on the patient's digestive capacity.

• Main Procedure (Pradhanakarma): The actual Virechana (purgation) is a one-day procedure where the purgative is administered, and the patient undergoes purgation multiple times throughout the day.

• Follow-up Care (Pashchatkarma): After Virechana, a strict diet regimen and lifestyle adjustments are recommended for about 3-7 days to restore digestive power and ensure the body's systems return to normalcy.

Diseases Which can be treated through Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

• Digestive Disorders: It is particularly beneficial for ailments related to liver and gallbladder, helping in conditions like jaundice, irritable bowel syndrome, and other gastrointestinal issues.

• Skin Conditions: Virechana can be useful in treating chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne by purifying the blood and removing toxins.

• Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders: Conditions like hyperacidity, diabetes, and certain thyroid disorders can be managed through Virechana, as it helps in metabolic regulation.

• Inflammatory Conditions: Diseases involving inflammation such as gout, arthritis, and certain autoimmune disorders benefit from the detoxification effects of Virechana.

• Headaches and Migraines: By balancing the body's biochemical processes, Virechana can reduce the frequency and intensity of headache and migraine episodes.

• Mental Health Issues: Ayurveda suggests that purification therapies like Virechana can also aid in alleviating mental and emotional stress, anxiety, and mild depression.

List of diseases Virechana Therapy can cure in Rajasthan

• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Such as chronic constipation, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome, which are often associated with Pitta imbalance.

• Liver Disorders: Including jaundice and hepatitis, where purification can help improve liver function.

• Skin Diseases: Like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, which are often treated through detoxification methods like Virechana.

• Metabolic and Endocrine Issues: Including diabetes and hyperlipidemia, where Virechana can help in regulating metabolism.

• Autoimmune Disorders: Such as rheumatoid arthritis, where Virechana therapy helps reduce inflammation.

• Neurological Conditions: Headaches and migraines can also be alleviated through the detoxifying effects of Virechana.

Wellness through Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

Detoxification

Virechana is primarily used to eliminate toxins accumulated in the liver and gallbladder, effectively cleansing the gastrointestinal tract. This detoxification process helps to rejuvenate the body's internal environment, leading to improved vitality and overall health.

Improvement in Digestive Health

By removing toxins and balancing the Pitta dosha, Virechana enhances digestive efficiency. This can lead to better metabolism, reduction in digestive disorders such as constipation, acidity, and irritable bowel syndrome, and improved nutrient absorption.

Skin Health

Since Virechana purifies the blood, it has a significant positive impact on skin health. It can help in reducing the incidence of skin disorders like acne, psoriasis, and eczema, leading to clearer skin and a healthier complexion.

Mental Clarity and Emotional Balance

The removal of physical toxins has a parallel effect on mental health. Virechana can lead to improved mental clarity and a reduction in emotional disturbances, contributing to better stress management and emotional stability.

Immune System Boost

By eliminating toxins and balancing the doshas, Virechana can strengthen the immune system. This enhanced immunity helps the body resist infections and various diseases more effectively.

Chronic Disease Management

Virechana is also beneficial in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, allergies, asthma, and even some autoimmune diseases by addressing the root cause of the imbalances within the body.

Lifestyle and Wellness Integration

In Rajasthan, where Ayurveda is a part of the cultural heritage, Virechana is not only a treatment but also a preventive practice integrated into lifestyle wellness routines. It's often combined with dietary advice, herbal treatments, yoga, and meditation to promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Mindfulness through Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

1. Holistic Cleansing

Virechana therapy aims to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins and balance the doshas, particularly Pitta, which is associated with metabolic and biochemical functions. This cleansing process extends beyond the physical, encouraging a mental release of old patterns and toxic thoughts, thereby clearing the way for more mindful awareness.

2. Enhanced Mental Clarity

By eliminating toxins from the body, Virechana can lead to greater mental clarity and improved cognitive function. As the fog of physical discomfort clears, it becomes easier to focus, be present, and engage in mindfulness practices without the distraction of a lethargic or stressed body.

3. Reduction of Emotional Turbulence

Pitta dosha, when imbalanced, can lead to irritability, anger, and impatience—emotions that can cloud mindfulness. Virechana helps in balancing Pitta, thereby smoothing out emotional turbulence. This emotional stability is conducive to practicing mindfulness, allowing for a more balanced perspective on daily events and interactions.

4. Cultivating Discipline and Routine

The process of undergoing Virechana therapy requires adherence to a specific regimen, including preparatory and post-therapy phases. This discipline can extend into other areas of life, fostering a routine that supports regular mindfulness practice, such as daily meditation or yoga.

5. Connection with Nature and Heritage

Many Virechana treatments are offered in settings that are deeply connected to nature and local heritage, such as traditional Ayurvedic hospitals or wellness retreats in Rajasthan. Being in such environments naturally encourages a connection with the present moment, fostering a deeper engagement with the surroundings and a mindful appreciation of the natural world.

6. Supportive Environment for Meditation

Post-Virechana, individuals often find themselves in a rejuvenated state, making it an optimal time to engage in meditation and other mindfulness practices. The increased physical ease and emotional calm aid in deeper, more focused meditation sessions.

7. Mindful Eating and Lifestyle Changes

Part of the Virechana therapy includes dietary modifications and lifestyle adjustments. Learning to be mindful of what, when, and how one eats can significantly enhance one's overall mindfulness. The awareness of the body’s responses to different foods and habits can lead to a more mindful approach to eating and living.

8. Reflective Practices

Post-therapy, practitioners often encourage reflection on the experience and its impacts on health and well-being. This reflection is a form of mindfulness practice that can enhance self-awareness and insight.

9. Integration of Mindfulness Techniques

Some centers may integrate explicit mindfulness training into the Virechana therapy program, teaching techniques that can be used during and after the treatment to maintain and enhance the benefits.

Stress Relief through Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

1. Detoxification and Physical Well-being

Virechana therapy is fundamentally a detoxification process aimed at purging bodily toxins and excess Pitta, which is often linked to heat and inflammation in the body. By cleansing the body of these excesses, Virechana can alleviate physical symptoms associated with stress, such as headaches, stomach aches, and muscle tension, leading to improved overall physical well-being.

2. Balancing Pitta Dosha

Pitta dosha, when out of balance, can lead to feelings of irritability, anger, and frustration, which are common emotional responses to stress. Virechana helps in balancing Pitta, thereby naturally reducing these emotional stressors and promoting a more calm and stable mood.

3. Enhanced Mental Clarity

The process of eliminating toxins and balancing the body’s energies through Virechana can lead to clearer thinking and improved concentration. Mental clarity is crucial for effectively managing stress, as it allows for better decision-making and problem-solving, reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed.

4. Restorative Effects on the Nervous System

Virechana therapy can have a soothing effect on the nervous system. This is particularly beneficial in cases of stress, as it helps calm the nerves and reduces the physiological responses to stress, such as rapid heartbeat and elevated blood pressure.

5. Improved Sleep Patterns

Stress often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or restless sleep. By purifying the body and calming the mind, Virechana can help normalize sleep patterns, which is essential for stress relief and overall health.

6. Holistic Approach to Health

Virechana is usually part of a broader therapeutic regimen that includes diet management, herbal treatments, yoga, and meditation—all of which contribute to stress reduction. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of Virechana are supported and enhanced by other health practices.

7. Cultural and Environmental Influence

The experience of undergoing Virechana in Rajasthan, with its serene landscapes and rich cultural ambiance, adds an additional layer of stress relief. The peaceful environment of Ayurvedic retreats in Rajasthan enhances the therapeutic effects by providing a tranquil setting away from the hectic pace of daily life.

8. Emotional Release and Renewal

The process of detoxification is not only physical but also emotional. Virechana can facilitate an emotional release of pent-up feelings, which is often a cathartic experience, helping individuals feel psychologically refreshed and less burdened by stress.

9. Educational Aspect

Learning about body types, the impact of diet, lifestyle on health, and how to maintain balance according to Ayurvedic principles can empower individuals. This knowledge helps manage stress better by making more informed choices about health and lifestyle.

10. Supportive Care and Guidance

The personalized care and attention provided during Virechana therapy ensure that individuals feel supported throughout the process. This can be particularly comforting and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety

Virechana Therapy for Weight Loss in Rajasthan

1. Toxin Elimination

Virechana aims to expel accumulated toxins from the body, which can significantly impact metabolic efficiency. By cleansing the gastrointestinal tract and other vital organs, it facilitates better digestion and absorption of nutrients, which is essential for maintaining an optimal metabolic rate and reducing weight gain.

2. Enhancement of Digestive Functions

One of the primary benefits of Virechana is the improvement of digestive health. A well-functioning digestive system is crucial for effective weight management, as it helps prevent issues like bloating and constipation, which can affect body weight.

3. Regulation of Metabolism

By targeting the Pitta dosha, known for governing metabolism and energy production, Virechana helps in normalizing and boosting metabolic rates. An enhanced metabolism naturally leads to more effective fat burning and energy utilization, aiding in weight loss.

4. Reduction in Excess Body Fluids

Virechana therapy helps in balancing the water retention in the body, which often contributes to excess weight. By reducing unnecessary fluid accumulation through therapeutic purgation, it can lead to immediate weight loss results.

5. Appetite Regulation

Following Virechana, there is often a natural shift in dietary habits and appetite. The therapy can recalibrate the body’s hunger signals and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods, promoting a more natural and healthy diet.

6. Holistic Approach and Lifestyle Changes

Virechana is usually part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary advice, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up routines. This holistic approach not only supports immediate weight loss but also helps in maintaining long-term weight management.

7. Psychological Benefits

Weight loss is not just a physical challenge but a psychological one as well. The cleansing process of Virechana can lead to improved mental clarity and emotional balance, which are essential for the discipline and motivation required to achieve and maintain weight loss goals.

8. Supportive Environment

The serene and culturally rich environment of Rajasthan enhances the overall experience and effectiveness of Virechana therapy. Many patients find that undergoing treatment in such settings helps them focus better on their health and weight loss goals.

9. Cultural Integration

In Rajasthan, traditional practices and modern conveniences are blended in the therapy sessions, making the process more enjoyable and culturally immersive. This can be particularly motivating for visitors and can enhance the overall efficacy of the treatment.

Cost and Packages of Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

1. Type of Facility

• Luxury Ayurvedic Resorts: These resorts offer comprehensive Virechana packages that include luxurious accommodations, personalized treatment plans, gourmet Ayurvedic meals, and access to other facilities like spas, yoga studios, and meditation halls. Prices at these high-end resorts can range from INR 20,000 to INR 40,000 per day.

• Traditional Ayurvedic Hospitals and Clinics: More focused on health care than luxury, these facilities offer Virechana therapy at more affordable rates, ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 10,000 per day, depending on the inclusiveness of the treatment and accommodation.

2. Duration of Treatment

• Short-term Packages: These can last from a few days to a week and are designed for general wellness and detoxification. They are generally more affordable.

• Long-term Packages: Extending for two weeks or more, these are recommended for those seeking comprehensive benefits from Virechana, especially for chronic conditions or significant health overhauls.

3. Included Services

• Consultations: Initial consultations with Ayurvedic doctors to assess health and plan the Virechana treatment.

• Preparatory Treatments: Such as Snehana (internal and external oleation) and Swedana (sweating therapy), which are critical precursors to the Virechana.

• The Virechana Process: The actual purgation treatment, monitored and controlled by Ayurvedic practitioners.

• Post-treatment Care: Including dietary guidance and lifestyle adjustments to stabilize and extend the benefits of the therapy.

4. Additional Offerings

• Yoga and Meditation: Many centers include daily yoga and meditation sessions to enhance the effectiveness of the Virechana treatment.

• Cultural Activities: Some packages also offer cultural tours or activities that showcase Rajasthan's heritage, adding value to the stay.

5. Customization

• Packages can often be customized to meet specific health requirements or personal preferences, which may affect the price. Tailored treatments typically cost more due to the additional resources and attention required.

6. Additional Costs

• Extras such as special diet requests, private rooms, or one-on-one therapy sessions can add to the overall cost.

• Transportation to and from the facility might not be included in the package and could be an additional expense.

7. Booking Advice

• Check What’s Included: Always clarify what the package includes in terms of treatments, meals, and accommodation to avoid hidden costs.

• Look for Packages: Some centers offer packages that bundle treatments with other services at a discount.

• Insurance Coverage: Check if your health insurance offers coverage for Ayurvedic treatments, as this can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Pros and Cons of Virechana Therapy in Rajasthan

Pros of Virechana Therapy

1. Effective Detoxification: Virechana helps cleanse the body of toxins accumulated in the liver and gallbladder, promoting better health and vitality​ 

2. Enhanced Digestive Health: By removing toxins and balancing the Pitta dosha, Virechana improves digestion and can alleviate chronic digestive issues such as acidity, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome​ 

3. Skin Health Improvement: The therapy is beneficial for skin health, helping to treat conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema due to its purifying effect on the blood​ 

4. Boosts Mental Clarity: Removing physical toxins is believed to have a positive impact on mental health, leading to increased clarity and emotional stability​ 

5. Holistic Treatment: Virechana treats the root cause of problems rather than just symptoms, offering a holistic approach to health that aligns with natural body processes​ 

Cons of Virechana Therapy

1. Time-Consuming: The complete Virechana process, including preparation and recovery, can be lengthy, requiring commitment and time away from daily activities​ 

2. Physical Demands: The therapy involves induced purging which can be physically demanding and uncomfortable, particularly for those who are weak or have certain health conditions​ 

3. Risk of Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: If not monitored properly, the purging process can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can be harmful​ 

4. Not Suitable for Everyone: Virechana is contraindicated for pregnant women, the elderly, children, and those suffering from severe diseases or debilitation​ 

5. Need for Expert Supervision: The therapy must be performed under the guidance of an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner to avoid complications and ensure it is administered correctly according to individual health needs​