Vasti
Basti, is essentially a medicated enema therapy, administered through rectal or alternate routes
Contraindications
While Vasti is recommended for all ages and conditions, certain contraindications must be considered:
- Acute diarrhea or dysentery
- Severe rectal bleeding or hemorhoids
- Recent abdominal surgery or injury
- Pregnancy or menstruation (specific Vasti types are allowed)
- Advanced stages of cancer or other serious illnesses
- Recent surgery
Digestive disorders
Constipation, indigestion, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis
Chronic pain conditions
Fibromyalgia, migraine headaches, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophy
Neurological disorders
epilepsy, peripheral neuropathy, Bell’s palsy, cerebral palsy, migraine headaches
Women’s Health
Hormonal imbalance, Menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), menopausal symptoms
Key components of Vasti
Vasti, a key component of Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy, is essentially a medicated enema therapy, administered through rectal or alternate routes. It also requires the Purvakarma of Abhyanga and Swedana. Vasti in Ayurveda is highly valued for its effectiveness in balancing Vata dosha and is used in treating a wide range of conditions, including neurological, musculoskeletal, and digestive disorders.
Vasti or Basti is a unique treatment modality for all Vata disorders. Basti is considered the best treatment modality for diseases, helping purge toxins, restore dosha equilibrium, and promote systemic rejuvenation. Its therapeutic spectrum includes simultaneous targeted management of specific pathologies and tissue nourishment. It involves medicated oils or herbal decoctions, and is an incomparable elimination therapy as it expels vitiated doshas rapidly and simultaneously nourishes the body. It can be easily performed in all age groups and is a non-invasive treatment for various ailments. Ayurveda appreciates Basti Karma as Ardha-Chikitsa, which means it has broader therapeutic action on almost all body tissues, with rejuvenating, curative, preventive, and health-promoting actions.
Symptoms
Vasti is considered the prime treatment for Vata disorders, as it directly nourishes and regulates the colon, nervous system, and lower body functions.
- Difficulty or pain while passing stool.
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation.
- Pain in knees, lower back, or neck.
- Stiffness and restricted body movements.
- Helpful in arthritis, sciatica, and gout.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in limbs
- Chronic or severe pain in the lower back region.
- Commonly due to Vata imbalance.