Abstract

BASTI THERAPY-INSIGHTS FROM KASHYAPA SAMHITA

*Dr. Shivani and Prof. Rakesh Sharma

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Abstract

In Ayurveda, Chikitsa refers to restoring the individual’s normalcy rather than just relieving the symptoms of the disease. Basti karma is one among the five major procedures in Panchakarma therapy, a traditional cleansing and rejuvenating therapy in Ayurveda. It is described as one of the main treatments for balancing doshas and treating various diseases. In this therapy the medicated oil or herbal decoction is administered through the anal route. Basti Karma is broadly divided in two types according to the consistency of the drugs - Sneha Basti (Anuvasana) and Niruha Basti (Aasthapana). In Sneha Basti medicated Oil/ Ghee, lipids are used whereas in Niruha Basti decoction of medicinal plants is the main content.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Panchakarma, Basti.