Vasti is one of the five methods of Panchakarma which is used widely in the management of many diseases. It is effective for multiple systems in the body, which makes it a perfect choice for the management of acute and chronic diseases.
In Kashaya Vasti, aqueous extract of medicinal herbs are used as the main ingredient, along with honey, rock salt, medicated oil/ghee and meat soup. This procedure requires intense preparation of the patient and watchful observation, both during and after the procedure.
Kashaya Vasti is a mode of parenteral drug administration. Parenteral refers to medication which is not administered through the digestive system. It prevents first pass metabolism in the liver, thereby preserving the concentration of the medication and allows a higher diffusion of medicine in body circulation. This allows rapid absorption of the medicated mixture and faster resulting action on the body systems.
Kashaya Vasti treatment involves enema using medicated decoction. Enema involves injecting medicated decoction into the rectum. It is good for pain management, detoxification, gastric problems and paralysis.
Kashaya Vasti involves many steps and is divided into three main stages: Purva Karma (preparation), Pradhan Karma (procedure) and Paschat Karma (post-procedure care).
In order to prepare the patient for Kashaya Vasti, they need to go through Sneha Basti. The Ayurvedic doctor then examines the patient and makes a decision on the decoction to be used and the duration of the treatment.
The Vasti instrument is prepared by lubricating and the rectum is also lubricated to prevent friction.
The patient is asked to lie in the left lateral position, i.e. on their left side with their legs flexed toward the abdomen or chest. This position is important, as the therapist needs to make sure that the drug reaches the duodenum, and it is closer to the left side of the body.
After the medicated decoction is inserted, the patient is asked to relax and lie on their back with their face and abdomen facing up (supine position). The abdomen is massaged till the patient has an urge to go to the toilet.
At Jiva Ayurveda, Kashaya Vasti is performed by skilled Ayurvedic therapists with specialised training in traditional techniques. Each session begins with a comprehensive assessment by an Ayurvedic doctor to understand the patient’s prakriti, dosha imbalances and medical history. Based on this assessment, the herbs to be used in Kashaya Vasti are carefully selected and prepared with precision.
During the session, the patient is required to lie in the left lateral position. The medicated decoction is then inserted via the rectum.
Our Kashaya Vasti treatment is tailored to your individual needs and preferences. We will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns.
Kashaya Vasti helps in removing gas which causes pain, and is also beneficial for removing toxins for body detoxification purposes. Some other benefits are:
People who have anorectal canal diseases such as hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, fecal incontinence etc. and people above 70 years of age are not recommended to undergo Kashaya Vasti.
Therapeutic enema is one of the most effective treatments to deal with lower back pain.
The word Basti/Vasti means bladder.
The Vasti procedure is done with a specific instrument called Vasti Netram (enema nozzle) and a Vasti Puta (the bag which contains the medicine).
It is recommended to eat light food like khichdi, rice, dal etc. after Kashaya Vasti.
