For carrying out Shirodhara – Dhara on the forehead, a Droni alone is not enough. A structure similar to a drip stand is used to suspend the vessel that holds the Dhara fluid. The vessel has a hole at its bottom. For a gentle, continuous flow, a small coconut shell disc to which a cotton wick has been tied, is fixed inside the vessel. The wick hangs down through the hole at the bottom to guide the flow.

To begin with a medicinal oil suited to the patients Dosha condition is applied on the crown. This is a prerequisite in almost all oil treatments. A headband (Vartti) is tied just above the ear level to prevent the Dhara stream from flowing into the eyes. The patient is then made to lie on his back on the Droni with the head resting comfortably face up. The position of the vessel should be such that the stream from its bottom wick falls at the center of the forehead. The therapist then fills the vessel. When the Dhara fluid trickles down the wick to fall on the patients forehead, the therapist moves the vessel to and fro gently with one hand to ensure that the fluid covers the entire region between the temples while he gently massages the area with his other hand. 

Dharas usually last between 25 and 75 minutes. However, if the disease is very severe, they may take longer. Shirodharas are generally good for diseases or health problems due to any disorder of the Tridosha. Oil medicated with herbs, tender coconut water, milk, ghee, Dhanyamla (an extraction of cereals and citrus fruits) or buttermilk may be used for various kinds of Dharas.  The therapy is indicated in insanity, severe illnesses due to disorder of Vata, chronic cold, sinusitis, diseases of the eyes, ears and related ailments.