A C RITICAL CONCEPTUAL REVIW ON BASTI WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE T O PANCH KARMA

*Dr. Nikhil Sudhakar Ugale, Dr. Tanvi Nikhil Ugale and Dr. Ankush Dattatraya Khedkar

ABSTRACT

Basti is a procedure in which the preparation of decoction or medicated oil is administered through rectal route.
The meaning of the word ‘Basti’ can be understood by the derivation “Vasu Nivase” that means to reside, to st ay, to
dwell. In other words, Basti is the procedure in which the medication stays inside the body and returns back in a
particular time. It is considered to be the most powerful tool for Shodhana as it alleviates the most powerful Dosha
that is the Vata D osha. Acharya Charakaa has quoted Basti as half of the complete treatment process (Ardha
Chikitsa). Also, some Acharyas considered Basti as complete treatment process (Poorna Chikitsa). All Acharyas
opined Basti as the best intervention for Vata Dosha. The importance of Basti has been well documented in the
classical texts of Ayurveda. It acts as an anti aging agent, good in every phase of life, a good tool to take out
morbid materials, provider of joyful life, good digestive power, cognizance, and improves complexion.

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