Upanaham is a herbal poultice. In this herbal pastes are mixed with proper acidic liquids and other ingredients and tied on the painful and inflamed joints. Usually this is kept at least for 12 hours day or night on position.
Over the paste herbal leaves having anti inflammatory Properties like calotropis, castor, datura etc. are tied and on top with cotton cloth.
The bandage produces some heat inside and it helps to increase the peripheral blood circulation on that part. It induces sweating and there by absorption of the inflammation inside the joint by the properties of the herbs Used.