THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF BASTI: A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW

Abstract

Basti is the one of the five procedures of Panchakarma in Ayurveda . Basti is the prime treatment in shodhana and is considered as one of the most important treatment for many diseases . It is a method of administering enemas with medicated decoction, oils, ghrita, milk , mamsa rasa etc. through vaginal route, urinary route and anal route. This treatment method has both preventive and curative perspectives. Basti is described as Ardha Chikitsa or half of all treatments of world put together . Vata is consider as a main controller of the body. Since the vata is motive force behind the function of elimination or retention of mala, mutra ,pitta and kapha in their respective Ashaya. There is no remedy other than Basti in allevation of Vata. Basti karmas are very much beneficial which pacifies the aggravated vata doshas , increase strength of the person and maintain health and longevity . So, in this article attempt has been made to review the Basti procedure in Ayurveda.