Various Types of Basti Karma and their Therapeutic Indications: An Ayurveda Review

Abstract

The various detoxifying techniques recommended by Ayurveda are Vaman, Virechan, Basti, Nasya and Raktamokshana. These all comes under the heading of Panchkarma procedure. Amongst them the Basti Karma is one of the important detoxification measures in which drug is transported through the anal route in the form of medicinal oil or herbal concoction. Enemas are frequently administered to clean the lower bowel in modern medicine as a last option for treating constipation when all other treatments have failed. Instead of this, Basti Karma, which is mentioned in classical Ayurvedic texts, has a wider therapeutic effect on almost all body tissues and has curative, preventive, health-promoting and rejuvenative effects. There are different types of Basti Karma proposed by Ayurveda philosopher which utilizes for various therapeutic purposes. Present article described various types of Basti Karma and their therapeutic indications along with general overview of this ancient technique.