Luk Pra Kob is the name for the traditional Thai treatment using herbal compresses. They have been used in Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM) for more than 400 years. The herbal balls are also called samunphrai in Thai. They can be applied hot or cold. Cold compresses can be used as first aid tools for bruises, sprained ankles, headaches, fevers and so on.
Hot compresses can be used in isolation to treat specific ailments or to complement a session of Nuad Boran. Hot temperatures increase blood flow, improve circulation, relax muscles, stimulate nerves, energize internal organs and soothe tension or soreness. In addition, the steaming of the herbs releases essential oils that are used as an inhalant in aromatherapy. The inhalation of the beneficial oils improves breathing problems, colds, coughs, bronchitis and clears and relaxes the mind.
Thai herbal compresses contain various herbs with antifungal, antibacterial, antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory features. They are applied for detoxification, the treatment of pain and inflammation as well as treatment of skin diseases or improvement of skin complexion.
Ginger Root
Cassumunar (ginger root) is known to be the anti-inflammatory ingredient of ginger. It is used for antiseptic treatment of wounds, bruises, swellings, muscle pain, strain or distortion, treatment of colds, sore throats and asthma (bronchodilator). It also has a beneficial effect on the digestive system.
Turmeric
Turmeric has a golden yellow color and has an antiseptic, antirheumatic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory effect. It is used as an digestive stimulant, as well as for skin diseases and irritations. Turmeric enhances skin complexion including skin color, tone and softness.
Kaffir Lime
Natural disinfectant and odor remover, antioxidant with healing features used for colds, congestion, digestion, menstruation, blood pressure.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass works as an anti-inflammatory, digestive, expectorant agent, applied for release of tension, digestive disorders, colds and treatment of skin infections.
Tamarind
Tamarind is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine with an antiseptic and blood puritying effect. It is used for constipation, colds, fever and for cleaning and refining of the skin.
Eucalyptus
Antiseptic, expectorant and diaphoretic agent for the treatment of colds, sinus problems, severe congestion and respiratory ailments.
Camphor
Camphor has a strong antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, diaphoretic effect. It can be absorbed through inhalation helping as a bronchodilator with asthma and rhinitis. It also stimulates the brain and the heart, blood circulation and helps with stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia.
Menthol
Used as a carminative agent and improves organ functioning (heart, stomach, skin). It has a strong cooling effect and is used to lessen inflammation, infections of the urinary tract, colds, cough, bleeding of the gums, skin irritation, depression.
Acacia
It can be used externally for treatment of dry skin, dandruff and healing of wounds. Internally it is used as a laxative or expectorant.