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Introduction: Panchakarma, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic therapeutics, encompasses five purificatory measures—Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana. The Samhitas elaborate on these as essential strategies for both prevention and cure, aiming at detoxification, dosha balance, and rejuvenation. While Panchakarma has been practiced for millennia, recent decades have witnessed an increased interest in its clinical validation through modern research. Methods: A structured literature review was conducted across classical Ayurvedic Samhitas (Charaka, Sushruta, Ashtanga Hridaya) and modern biomedical databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science). Inclusion criteria were texts, reviews, and clinical studies addressing Panchakarma’s principles, indications, contraindications, and evidence-based outcomes. Studies unrelated to therapeutic applications or lacking methodological rigor were excluded. Results:  The review highlights Panchakarma’s role as a detoxification and rejuvenation protocol with systemic benefits. Evidence from Samhitas describes disease-specific and preventive applications, while contemporary studies suggest its influence on gut microbiota, immune modulation, neuroendocrine balance, and metabolic regulation. Clinical studies on Panchakarma interventions, including Vamana for asthma, Virechana for skin disorders, and Basti for neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, provide promising outcomes, though limitations persist in study design and standardization. Discussion: Panchakarma presents a unique integrative approach, emphasizing both internal cleansing and individualized treatment. While classical descriptions highlight its preventive, promotive, and curative aspects, modern evidence supports its biochemical and physiological relevance. However, gaps remain in the form of robust clinical trials, standardized protocols, and mechanistic clarity.

KEYWORDS: Basti, Detoxification, Panchakarma, Samhita, Virechana