Niruha Basti (Asthapana Basti)
Niruha Basti / Asthapana Basti
A cleansing, decoction-based enema that is the principal Vata-pacifying purification of Panchakarma, drawing out accumulated doshas from the colon.
reduces Vataneutral for Pittareduces Kapha
What it involves
A warm blend of herbal decoction (kashaya), honey, salt, oil, herbal paste (kalka) and sometimes fermented liquids is introduced into the rectum and retained briefly, then evacuated with the doshas; given on alternating days within an Anuvasana schedule.
Traditionally used for
- chronic constipation
- Vata disorders
- low back and joint pain
- neuromuscular conditions
- abdominal distension
Contraindications & cautions
- acute diarrhoea or dysentery
- rectal bleeding or fissures
- severe debility
- immediately after meals
- pregnancy
Questions to ask a practitioner
- Which decoction and how many bastis are planned for my condition?
- How will retention and evacuation be monitored?
Evidence notes
Considered the most important Vata therapy in classical texts; must be dosed and sequenced by a trained physician.
Classical sources
- Charaka Samhita — Siddhi Sthana 1-4 — Basti kalpana
- Ashtanga Hridayam — Sutrasthana 19 — Basti vidhi
Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.