Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. An electronic transportable Shirodhara treatment performing apparatus comprising:
an ergonomic headrest base;
a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations;
a heater;
a reservoir;
a liquid circulation module comprising of a silent motor, a silent pump;
a liquid collection unit;
a touch interface to control temperature;
a touch interface to regulate laminar flow;
a touch interface to control duration;
a USB device interface;
re-chargeable battery;

assembled such that there is an automatic and laminar flow of liquid over the forehead of a person.

2. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the ergonomic headrest base characterized by an egg shape configured to provide support and comfort to the patient.

3. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the liquid pouring arm is rendered leak-proof by integrating another cylindrical pipe inside the arm.

4. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations with its base attached to the headrest is rendered adjustable using a coupler or gear mechanism.

5. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the heater is shockproof, and can heat the liquid from approximately 0°C to approximately 40°C.

6. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the said liquid circulation module is housed in a casing for stability and protection.

7. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the liquid collection unit is attached to a drainage system.

8. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein touch interface is integrated with a control unit for receiving data, analyzing, and regulating temperature prescribed for treatment.

9. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the touch interface is integrated with a control unit for receiving data, analyzing, and regulating laminar flow of liquid prescribed for treatment.

10. Shirodhara apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the touch interface is integrated with a control unit for receiving data, analyzing, and regulating time prescribed for treatment.

Dated this on 8th day of September 2020
, Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to an apparatus for performing Shirodhara therapy. More particularly, the invention relates to a transportable, electronic apparatus for performing Shirodhara therapy. The apparatus of the invention further finds use in different forms of Shirodhara treatment by facilitating use of different liquids.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Shirodhara is a form of Ayurveda therapy that involves gently pouring liquids over the forehead and can be one of the steps involved in Panchakarma. The name comes from the Sanskrit words shiro (head) and dhara (flow). The liquids used in Shirodhara depend on what is being treated, but can include oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water, decoction and/or water.

Shirodhara has been used to treat a variety of conditions including eye diseases, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, greying of hair, neurological disorders, memory loss, insomnia, hearing impairment, tinnitus, vertigo, Ménière's disease and certain types of skin diseases like psoriasis. It is also used non-medicinally at spas for its relaxing properties. Studies report that Ayurvedic Shirodhara is a safe option to improve sleep quality among people who have sleep problems. Shirodhara is also effective in treating mental conditions such as anxiety, and mental stress. The calming effect produced by Shirodhara is similar to that obtained with meditation. There are specialized forms of Shirodhara called ksheeradhara, thakradhara, taildhara and jaladhara. Shirodhara is thought to work by relaxing the hypothalamus in the brain. It can also normalize the functions of hormones that regulate sleep and emotions. This is especially important in relieving stressful conditions.

In traditional Shirodhara, patients lie down on their backs on a wooden table. A copper container containing lukewarm oil is suspended above their head. A hole in the pot allows the oil to flow ambiently on the forehead, in a pre-determined pattern and quickly induces a deep physical and mental relaxation accompanied by a deep state of mental silence and happiness. A fabric protects the patient's eyes so that the oil does not penetrate the patient. A therapist usually stands behind the patient's head. The therapist can move the direction of the flow and periodically retrieve the oil with a ladle below the table to refill the container. In some cases, presence of the therapist may be non-relaxing to the person availing the treatment. Traditional Shirodhara technique, however effective, is cumbersome and requires expensive equipment, not to mention the entire facility for the treatment must be maintained for cleanliness and hygiene.

The importance of Shirodhara for clinical and non-clinical purpose is especially relevant in today’s high paced lifestyle. However, also by the virtue of this lifestyle, it is not always possible for a patient or a person who desires to avail the treatment, to go to the spa or the center for various reasons. Multiple treatment sessions may not be cost effective either. The availability of a self-operable Shirodhara apparatus can eliminate the need to go someplace else in order to get the treatment, and provide the comfort of one’s home. Further, having such an apparatus can also eliminate the requirement of a therapist, allowing freedom and independence to the person wishing to take the treatment.

Some automatic Shirodhara systems have been developed. However, they are very expensive, involve use of large equipment, and are still uncomfortable. Further, these automatic systems are not convenient to carry along and may require assistance in operation. One of the crucial aspects of a Shirodhara treatment is the flow of the liquid - flow should have a constant rhythm. Care must be taken, as gradually the stream flow rhythm changes by becoming small and slow. The lack of proper rhythm affects the efficiency of the treatment. Traditionally this aspect requires assistance of the therapist and is also lacking in the currently available devices. Another critical issue is warming the oil and maintaining the ambient temperature of the oil i.e. oil should neither heat up too much or become too cold during the treatment. There is also a particular need for an efficient system for collecting the liquid that comes down after being poured on the person’s forehead, this is lacking in the current devices available for Shirodhara. Yet another crucial issue with the currently available shirodhara devices is sound. A motor and a pump are typically associated with the device in order to pump the liquid. Both the motor and pump create a background noise or sound which is counter-effective in the Shirodhara treatment since the purpose of the treatment is to induce relaxation.

It is therefore desirable to have a Shirodhara apparatus which is compact, lightweight, transportable, durable, safe, noiseless, easy to operate, operable by the person himself without the intervention of any professional, and easy to clean. The present invention is such a Shirodhara apparatus which is transportable, runs on an electronic system, is noiseless, is safe, and provides an easy operation to the person wishing to take the treatment. The present invention also provides an apparatus that will facilitate ambient temperature and duration prescribed for the treatment. Further, the apparatus supports Shirodhara treatment in different forms by accommodating different types of liquids used. Furthermore, the apparatus ascertains a continuous rhythm and flow of the liquid required for the therapy. One of the most important and essential characteristic of the invention shall be safety with respect to human use.

Shirodhara produce a constant pressure and
vibration which is amplified by hollow sinus present in
frontal bone. The vibration is then transmitted inwards
through the fluid medium of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This
vibration along with little temperature may activate the
functions of thalamus and the basal forebrain which then
brings the amount of serotonin and catecholamine to the
normal stage. Pressure also has an effect on impulse
conduction. If prolonged pressure is applied to a nerve,
impulse conduction is interrupted and part of body
relaxes.
Shirodhara produce a constant pressure and
vibration which is amplified by hollow sinus present in
frontal bone. The vibration is then transmitted inwards
through the fluid medium of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This
vibration along with little temperature may activate the
functions of thalamus and the basal forebrain which then
brings the amount of serotonin and catecholamine to the
normal stage. Pressure also has an effect on impulse
conduction. If prolonged pressure is applied to a nerve,
impulse conduction is interrupted and part of body
relaxes.
According to the present invention there is therefore provided a transportable, electronic Shirodhara apparatus that can provide Shirodhara treatment at ambient temperatures and environment for prescribed periods. Further, the present invention provides a transportable, electronic Shirodhara apparatus that can facilitate use of different liquids to perform Shirodhara treatment in different forms wherein the embodiments ascertains a continuous rhythm and flow of the liquid required for the therapy.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of the foregoing, for overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art, the object of the invention is to provide a transportable, lightweight, electronic Shirodhara apparatus that will that can provide Shirodhara treatment to persons at any place or time of convenience, without the intervention of a therapist. Further, the said apparatus shall provide ease of operation. Furthermore, the said apparatus shall provide for implementing different forms of Shirodhara.

Another object of the invention is to provide a transportable, electronic Shirodhara apparatus that will facilitate a Shirodhara treatment at conducive and ambient parameters i.e. prescribed ambient temperature, for the prescribed duration, at a constant prescribed rhythm and a laminar flow of liquid, and in a noise-less environment.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a transportable, electronic Shirodhara apparatus that can facilitate use of different liquids, such as water, oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water, and/or decoction, by using a silent pump, to perform Shirodhara treatment in different forms.

Accordingly, an aspect of the invention is an electronic, transportable Shirodhara treatment performing apparatus comprising an ergonomic headrest base, a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations, a heater, a reservoir, a liquid circulation module comprising of a silent motor and a silent pump, a liquid collection unit, a touch interface to heat and control temperature, a touch interface to regulate the laminar flow, a touch interface to control duration, a USB device interface, re-chargeable battery, assembled such that there is an automatic and laminar flow of liquid over the forehead of a person.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the present Shirodhara apparatus is transportable.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the present Shirodhara apparatus comprises of an electronic unit controlling a pump with flow control, a heater with controller, and a timer.

According to one embodiment, there is an automatic and laminar flow of liquid over the forehead of a person. According to one embodiment, liquid shall be water, oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water, and/or decoction. According to another embodiment, different forms of Shirodhara treatment shall be performed by choosing the type of liquid to be used for the treatment.

According to one embodiment of the invention is an ergonomic headrest base wherein the ergonomic headrest base characterized by an egg shape configured to provide support and comfort to the patient.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations wherein the liquid pouring arm is rendered leak-proof by integrating another cylindrical pipe inside the arm.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations wherein the liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe with its base attached to the headrest is rendered adjustable using a coupler or gear mechanism.

In an alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise of a steel spring, and wherein the adjustable pipe with its base attached to the headrest is rendered adjustable using a coupler or gear mechanism, characterized by its ability to move in semi-circular rotation along the forehead.

In an alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise notches inside the outer pipes for mechanical adjustment, screw to affix the base, an upper horizontal side of arm, a rubber attachment, wherein a linear stage with a gear coupled with stepper motor shall facilitate horizontal movement of the arm along the forehead.

In an alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise of drive stepper motor, screw with nut slider attached to pipe of output end of the arm to ensure smooth circumferential oscillations.

In an alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall be a robotic arm to perform therapy, coupled with infrared (IR) sensors to induce and regulate oscillations.

In an alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise of dynamic nuts with spring to facilitate a front-to-back and a side-to-side movement.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a heater wherein the heater is shockproof, and can heat the liquid from approximately 0°C to approximately 40°C.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a liquid circulation module comprising of a silent motor and a silent pump. According to another embodiment, is the liquid circulation module comprising of a silent motor and a silent pump wherein the liquid circulation module is housed in a casing for stability and protection.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a liquid collection unit wherein the liquid collection unit is attached to a drainage system.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a touch interface for temperature configured to provide ease in operation wherein touch interface is integrated with a control unit for receiving data, analyzing, and regulating temperature prescribed for treatment.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a touch interface for flow regulation configured to provide ease in operation wherein the touch interface is integrated with a control unit for receiving data, analyzing, and regulating flow of liquid prescribed for treatment.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a touch interface to control duration wherein the touch interface is integrated with a control unit for receiving data, analyzing, and regulating time prescribed for treatment.

According to one embodiment of the invention is a USB device interface.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the above embodiments are assembled such that there is an automatic and laminar flow of liquid over the patient’s forehead.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings, which disclose several embodiments of the present invention. It is to be understood that the drawings are to be used for purposes of illustration only, and not as a definition of the invention.

Figure 1 is an Isometric View of Shirodhara apparatus;
Figure 2 is a right view of illustrating the drain cap and base plate
Figure 3 is a front view of illustrating tank cover motor bracket
Figure 4 is a left view of illustrating DC Motor
Figure 5 is a top view of illustrating PCB main control board
List of Reference Numerals
1 – Tank Cover
2 – Tank
3 – Headrest
4– Arm
5– Motor Bracket Cover
6 – Nozzle
7 – Motor Bracket
8 – Base Cover
9 – DC Motor
10 – PCB Main Control Board
11 – Pump
12 – Heating Plate
13 – Drain Cap

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
To clarify the above and other purposes, features, and advantages of this invention, specific embodiment of this invention is especially listed and described in detail with the examples as follows. The principal and mode of operation of this invention have been described and illustrated in its embodiment. At the outset, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that this invention may be practiced otherwise than is specifically described and illustrated. The invention should not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention. In the following description of the invention, certain terminology may be used for the purpose of reference only, and is not intended to be limiting.

At the core of this invention is a transportable, lightweight, electronic Shirodhara apparatus that will that can provide Shirodhara treatment to persons at any place or time of convenience, without the intervention of a therapist. Further, the said apparatus shall provide ease of operation and perform different forms of Shirodhara. Also important to the invention is to provide a Shirodhara apparatus that will facilitate a Shirodhara treatment at conducive and ambient parameters i.e. prescribed ambient temperature, for the prescribed duration, at a constant prescribed rhythm and laminar flow of liquid, and in a noise-less environment. Accordingly, features of the present Shirodhara apparatus have been designed by taking into consideration the above requirements.

Shirodhara is a form of Ayurveda therapy that involves gently pouring liquids over the forehead. Traditionally, Shirodhara treatment is performed by having a patient lie down on their backs on a wooden table. A copper container containing lukewarm oil is suspended above the patient’s head. A hole in the pot allows the oil to flow ambiently on the forehead. A therapist’s assistance is required to maintain the temperature and flow of the oil, and subsequent collection of the used oil. This is indicative of the critical parameters to be kept in mind in the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments and features of the present invention have been described in detail as follows.

The apparatus of the present invention (FIG. 1) shall consist of an egg shaped headrest base, a water pouring arm with an adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations, a removable cover allowing access to the reservoir, an electronic component, with touch interface, for controlling the time, temperature, and flow rate too. The apparatus shall also have plurality of interfaces, such as for using a USB device. The apparatus shall perform on 230 Volt power supply. It is critical that the apparatus body is made of a strong and durable material. The material shall be rust proof, acid, alkali, chemical proof, heat resistant, survive all climates, and have a long life.

Further, the apparatus shall have a rechargeable battery. The 12 volt heater will be used for heating the liquid. The time required to achieve desired temperature is approximately 15 to 20 minute. The user can also use the preheated liquid and start the therapy.

The most crucial characteristic of the invention is that the apparatus should be safe for the patient. Safety has been introduced in the design of the apparatus through various features such as insulation layers around the heater, an automatic heater cut off system using sensors, a fuse for eliminating the possibility of a short circuit and so on. These features have been described in more detail further.

To perform Shirodhara, the patient has to lay supine on a flat surface. In the present invention the patient shall lay supine on any comfortable flat surface and rest his head on the headrest. Accordingly, there is provided an ergonomic headrest which is characterized by an egg shape. Since the invention can be used by adults and children, the ergonomic design of the headrest takes into account the varying head circumference of the patients. Further, a neck support angle has been provided in the headrest to enhance the patient’s comfort. The comfort of the headrest shall assist in maintaining the supine position required by the patient for the duration of treatment. Preferably, the direction of the headrest shall be adjustable. The mechanical set up shall be provided for adjusting headrest in vertical direction and/or horizontal direction to enhance comfort. The headrest also forms the base of the apparatus.

Central to this invention is a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm with an adjustable pipe characterized by circumferential oscillations. The shirodhara treatment works on the principle that a laminar and steady flow of liquid is poured over the patient’s forehead. In the present invention this is partly achieved using a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm. The base of this arm shall be affixed to the headrest. In a preferred embodiment, the arm’s base shall be attached to the headrest using a coupler or gear mechanism. The presence of the coupler or the gear mechanism renders adjustability to the arm. Further, plurality of grooves are provided on the base to adjust the height of the liquid pouring arm. It should be noted that the arm is also rendered leak-proof by integrating another cylindrical pipe inside the arm.

The arm shall have an outlet from which the liquid pours out on the patient’s forehead. It is important that this end of the arm remains moveable to create either horizontal, semi-circular, or oscillating motions. A home position shall be defined for the arm which will signify the position of the arm when the apparatus is at rest or not in use. Any movement of the arm shall be in reference to this home position. It is desired that this movement shall be circumferential. It should be appreciated that various mechanical structures are possible with respect to the arm in order to facilitate different movements. Some of the possibilities have been described below.

In one alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise of a steel spring which renders the structure part flexibility and part rigidity. The adjustable pipe shall have a base attached to the headrest and shall be rendered adjustable using a coupler or gear mechanism characterized by its ability to move in semi-circular rotation along the forehead.

In another alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise notches inside outer pipes for mechanical adjustment. A screw shall be used to affix the base, an upper horizontal side of arm, a rubber attachment. A linear stage with a gear coupled with stepper motor shall facilitate horizontal movement of the arm along the forehead.

In another alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise of drive stepper motor, screw with nut slider attached to pipe of output end of the arm to ensure smooth circumferential oscillation with respect to a pre-decided home position.

In yet another alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall be a robotic arm to perform therapy, coupled with infrared (IR) sensors to induce and regulate oscillations.

In another alternate embodiment, the moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm shall comprise of dynamic nuts with spring to facilitate front-to-back and side-to-side movement.

To reiterate, central to this invention is an automatic and laminar flow of liquid over the forehead of a person. Shirodhara can be performed in different forms wherein different liquids are used. These liquid shall be selected from water, oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water and/or decoction. Any oil with the base of Sesame oil is preferred while performing shirodhara. On some occasions drops of certain essential oils with medicinal properties are also added to water being used for Shirodhara.

The therapeutic efficacy of the treatment is dependent upon the fixed form of the oscillatory movement. The continuous, gentle oscillation of the liquid in a pre-determined direction and pattern induces the therapeutic effect. In the present invention, an oscillator is provided to induce this effect (FIG. 2). Further, a specific nozzle at the end of the liquid pouring arm shall be provided to ensure a laminar flow regardless of the liquid being used throughout the therapy. For example, while a laminar flow is achievable with oil, it is not so in case of water. Using a specifically designed nozzle at the end of the liquid pouring arm, this desired effect can be achieved. It is desired that the laminar flow is in semi-circular motion with respect to a home position. It is imperative that the speed of oscillations shall also be controlled by the apparatus.

It is imperative that the apparatus of the present invention should be able to facilitate use of different liquids, such as water, oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water, and/or decoction, to perform Shirodhara treatment in different forms. This is achieved by employing an intricate mechanical and electronic system that creates and regulates a continuous and steady flow of the liquid. Following embodiments describe the aforementioned characteristics of the apparatus.

The apparatus of the present invention shall comprise of a reservoir wherein the liquid to be used for Shirodhara shall be stored for the duration of the treatment. The said reservoir shall be located underneath and subsequently be attached to the movable leak-proof liquid pouring arm. The reservoir shall have a removable cover, and shall be capable of storing the aforementioned liquids such as water, milk, buttermilk, oils, coconut water, and/or decoction in quantities sufficient for the shirodhara session. The apparatus also comprises the filter to filter out the liquid e.g. butter milk when used for therapy. Further, the reservoir shall comprise of a silent pump and a silent motor. More specifically, the apparatus shall operate on a DC motor. The same silent pump shall be used for oil and water. It should be noted that the silent pump can be used for all other types of liquids as well. The reservoir shall be secured by a support, a heater, and shall be clipped in a protecting grid. The reservoir shall also have a distinct liquid filling inlet and a distinct liquid draining outlet.

Also central to the present invention is the use of a silent pump. It should be noted that the same pump has been designated for the purpose of facilitating the use of separate liquids. The pump shall be standard 12 volts pump and shall be silent i.e. noiseless. The said pump shall exhibit a controlled and continuous liquid outflow that is regulated using potentiometer. For example, a flow of approximately 1-2 liter per minute of water or oil, irrespective of density of fluid, shall be predetermined.

Since the purpose of the Shirodhara treatment is relaxation, it is imperative that the pump be silent i.e. do not produce any unwanted noise. The silent pump shall be submersible or self-priming to lift water up to a maximum of approximately one foot. This is crucial for the safety of the apparatus. Use of liquids in the apparatus stresses that safety features be an integral part of the apparatus layout.

The present invention shall also comprise of a silent motor to run the apparatus. The apparatus shall operate on a DC Motor. A silent motor is particularly required to enhance the conducive environment for the therapy. In a preferred embodiment, a Stepper motor shall be used. This motor shall be controlled to exhibit a specific rotational movement of approximately 30-40°. This motion shall be in reference to a predetermined home position. The motor shall be instrumental in achieving motions such as horizontal, semi-circular, or oscillating motions required for the treatment.

It should be noted that the Shirodhara therapy works on the precision of position of where the liquid shall be poured upon the forehead. A practitioner of Shirodhara will appreciate that a specific liquid needs to be poured on around a specific point, in a specific direction, in a specific pattern, and at a specific laminar flow rate in order to achieve the optimum results. It should also be noted that these specifications vary minutely with change of liquids and the prescribed therapy. A person skilled in the art shall appreciate that the movable liquid pouring arm, the silent pump, and the silent motor are primarily employed to achieve this effect. This reflects on the complexity and sophistication of the mechanical structure of the present invention.

Shirodhara treatment, when specifically performed with oils, requires that the liquid be heated at a specific, ambient temperature. This takes into account the requirement that the liquid should neither be too hot nor too cold. It is equally important that the temperature of the liquid should remain constant throughout the Shirodhara session. A common issue with most heater based systems is the lack of maintenance of a constant temperature. As the session progresses, the temperature of the liquid deviates causing distress to the patient. According to an embodiment of the present invention is a heater which has an automatic temperature cut off and is shockproof. The said heater should be able to heat the liquid in a short duration such as approximately five minutes and hold the temperature thereafter. Further, and most importantly, the heater shall be capable of heating all types of liquids. This is particularly crucial because liquids of varying viscosities exhibit different heating capacities e.g. water doesn’t heat beyond 100 °C whereas oil may heat beyond 300 °C. Ordinarily this affects the choice of heater. In the present invention a 230 volts heater shall be used to facilitate use of all types of liquids. Similarly, the size of the heater shall be in proportion to the size or the liquid holding capacity of the reservoir. Temperature of liquids such as water, oil, milk, and decoction is recommended to be approximately 39-40°C for shirodhara. On the contrary, liquids such as buttermilk do not require any heating. Accordingly, temperature of the liquid shall be raised and regulated from approximately 0°C to approximately 40°C depending upon the liquid that is being used for the treatment. From safety perspective, the human body cannot bear therapy if liquids have temperature higher than 40°C. The heater shall be coupled with a sensor, placed at an appropriate position, to receive and analyze temperature data of the circulating liquid.

To reiterate, safety of the apparatus is considered while using this heater. This is to ensure there are no hazards related to human wellbeing. Preferably, the heater specifications shall include 500 to 600 watts which shall operate on 230 VAC 50 Hz. This shall not exclude the possible use of others heaters from the scope of this invention. To provide protection, following features have been included around the heater: a mica sheet cover shall be provided on the heater, a fiberglass shall be placed above the said mica sheet, an aluminum plate shall be used with earthen to ground, a special paint coat for insulation shall also be provided, and a thermostat shall be used to ensure that the liquid doesn’t heat beyond 40°C. It should be noted that the temperature sensor shall be used as a safety feature. The sensor shall cuts off the heater if the temperature reaches 40°C. This could be indicated by operation of a buzzer. Equally importantly, the temperature shall be maintained at the required level.

A collection unit, characterized by a funnel shaped tank, shall be employed to collect and recirculate shirodhara liquid in order to enhance the ease and convenience of operation in addition to maintaining hygiene. This collected unit shall be integrated with the drainage system taking into account the ergonomics of the system. An Arduino controller board shall be attached with a solenoid valve to ensure drainage from the reservoir in order to keep the reservoir clean and hygienic. A switch shall be provided to empty the reservoir at the end of the session or whenever required. The apparatus shall be easy to clean. The liquid circulation unit, collection unit, and drainage system shall be easily cleaned by running plurality of cleaning cycles using soap water or liquid of preferred choice.

The apparatus of the present invention shall be provided with multiple and separate touch interfaces to regulate features such as temperature, flow rate of the liquid, and duration. This is particularly useful for the user to set parameters before starting the session and thereby monitor them if he deems it fit. The said touch interface shall be designed for the convenience of the user. The touch interfaces shall receive, analyze, and display data, thereby regulate the parameters of temperature and duration.

A touch interface shall also be used to choose oscillation. This touch interface shall further communicate with a regulator, placed internally, to subsequently regulate the flow rate and oscillation speed. The use of regulator is particularly crucial in this apparatus. As has been described above, the effectiveness of a Shirodhara treatment lies predominantly with flow rate of the liquid and the speed of the oscillation. Neither of the parameters can be too high or too low from the prescribed number. A variation of great degree shall cause discomfort to the patient and further countereffective to the purpose of the treatment. A regulator, placed internally, shall be crucial for regulating speed of oscillation and flow rate of the liquid. As per requirement, one or more regulators may be used for to achieve this purpose.

A person practicing Shiordhara will appreciate the importance of creation of Schumann resonance during the treatment. It is known that the Earth behaves like an electric circuit. Its electromagnetic field surrounds and protects all living things with a natural frequency pulsation of 7.83 hertz on average i.e. “Schumann resonance” also known as the Earth frequency. It is desired that the Schumann resonance is created by the said apparatus to alleviate the efficacy of the treatment. One of the methods of doing this by managing the sounds emanated from the apparatus i.e. the apparatus’s own sound and any external sounds.

The apparatus of the present invention is also provided with additional interfaces such as a USB device interface (port). This is a unique embodiment incorporated to enhance the Shirodhara experience. A relaxing treatment such as Shirodhara can be enhanced using the choice of music or sounds that the patients deems soothing. The USB interface coupled with speakers shall allow the patient to listen to the music of his choice during the session. In an alternate embodiment, a similar provision can be made for facilitating the use of mp3 player, or a memory card such as SD card or micro SD card.

In line with one of the objects of the invention, i.e. transportability and ease of use, the apparatus of the present invention shall operate using a re-chargeable battery. This shall eliminate any dependency on electrical source and availability or non-availability of electricity. Furthermore, since the apparatus is transportable and lightweight, if the person chooses to carry it along during across the border travel, the use of re-chargeable battery shall also eliminate the hassle of finding an appropriate electrical adapter depending upon their location. Typical Shirodhara sessions may last from approximately 30 minutes to approximately 60 minutes. The re-chargeable batteries shall have the capacity to run at least 2 Shirodhara sessions.

It should be appreciated that the various embodiments of the said apparatus of the invention work synergistically to deliver the desired result i.e. an efficient Shirodhara treatment. As mentioned before, the apparatus performs on an intricate mechanical and electronic synergy for its optimum function. In other words, the embodiments of the invention cannot be viewed in an individual manner but contribute towards portraying the invention as a whole. For example, the specifications of the motor and the pump are aligned with the requirement of the liquid pouring pipe i.e. they ensure that the right amount of liquid is pumped up at the full height of the liquid pouring arm. Additionally, ‘silent’ characteristic the motor and pump also contribute towards creating an ambient environment during the therapy. Further, the oscillator and the nozzle of the liquid pouring pipe are equally integral to the function of the apparatus. Similarly, while the heater selected is capable of heating all types of liquids, this alone is not sufficient to provide the therapy. The motor, pump, liquid pouring arm, and the nozzle are capable to dispensing these relevant liquids. Any change in the calibration of one embodiment, presents the opportunity to calibrate the other synergistic embodiments of the invention. Identification of this change and providing solution for it without sacrificing functionality of end product is crucial. The aforementioned components interact synergistically to regulate or maintain the environment inside the apparatus in order to achieve the object of the invention. The features in the present invention work synergistically and are interactive and interdependent in more than one way.

It is also crucial that all the embodiments of the present invention i.e. an ergonomic headrest base, a moveable leak-proof liquid pouring arm with adjustable pipe, a heater, a reservoir, a liquid circulation module comprising of a silent motor and a silent pump, a liquid collection unit, a touch interface to regulate temperature, a touch interface to regulate flow, a touch interface to control duration, a USB device interface, re-chargeable battery, need to be assembled such that there is laminar flow of liquid over the forehead of a person. Moreover, the assembly shall also maintain the compact and lightweight characteristics of the apparatus.