Snana is not an Ayurvedic treatment. Snana comes under Paschat Karma or post treatment care in Ayurveda. A daily bath after an Abhyanga or self-administered whole body oil massage is prescribed as part of the Dinacharya (daily routine) in Ayurvedic texts. If a suitable type of oil is used, Abhyanga helps to soothe Vata. While applying oil all over the body, care should be taken to ensure that the face, ears and soles of the feet are also massaged gently. A different type of oil that is suited to ones ailment can be used for the head.

Warm water is preferred for the bath after Abhyanga.  Roots, barks and leaves of herbs suited to ones Prakruti (constitution) and ailments may be boiled in this water. However the water should be cooled to a moderate temperature before being used. Never use hot water for the head. Cleaning agents like green gram paste should be used for the body, and a herbal shampoo for the hair.

Avoid bathing at noon, while the environment is hot. Baths can be had in the morning or in the afternoon, before sunset. Bathing immediately after meals is harmful. Application of some Choorna (herbal powder) on the crown after the bath helps to prevent colds. Choornas or herbal powders like Rasnadi, Panchagandham or Kachoradi are usually preferred for this.