Chapter 1.13: Oleation Therapies (Snehadhyaya / स्नेहाध्याय)

Comprehensive guide to oleation therapy as essential pre-purification treatment, covering lipid sources (vegetable and animal), the four major therapeutic fats, seasonal protocols, dosing, contraindications, and signs of proper oleation.

Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan by Vagbhata

This chapter establishes oleation as essential pre-purification therapy that channelizes vitiated doshas from periphery to gut. It classifies lipid sources, establishes ghee's therapeutic superiority, prescribes seasonal protocols for fat selection, and provides individualized dosing based on digestive capacity. Proper oleation produces soft tissues and improved digestion; improper application causes skin disease, hemorrhoids, and indigestion.