Kati Basti is an Ayurvedic therapy that includes several steps such as Bahyasnehana (external oleation), and Swedana Chikitsa (fomentation therapy). It is a one-of-a-kind method of Panchakarma that involves both Snehana and Swedana. Kati Basti is derived from Basti, which means to hold, or the container that holds the Kati pradesha (lumbosacral region). It provides relief from inflammatory changes, release of spasms, strengthening of tissues that support the spine, and nourishing the joints by enhancing circulation.
Improper sitting posture, travelling, changing modes of transportation, and sporting activities, among other things, put pressure on the spine, which contributes to the development of low backache or sciatica. The therapy is for people who have lower back and/or lower body pain and/or tightness.
Kati Basti is beneficial for people who have disorders related to the lower part of the body, especially sciatica. It is also very helpful for people who have muscle spasms, lower back tightness, and need bone tissue strengthening in the back area.
Kati Basti session begins by making the patient lie in a prone position. Then, a Kati Basti ring is made with black gram dough and Dashamula Taila passively heated is poured in the ring, after confirming that the oil is both tolerable and comfortable to the patient.
The oil is then poured on the inner border of the Kati Basti ring to avoid any discomfort due to the heated oil. Care is taken to prevent any leakage of oil. The oil is kept for 30-40 minutes by the therapist. Whatever oil is used in Kati Basti, the foundation oil is always sesame oil, as it is easily absorbed by the body and penetrates deep into the body.
The warming effect of the oil induces calmness and reduces muscle spasm as well as pain.
At Jiva Ayurveda, Kati Basti 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 oil mixture to be used in Kati Basti are carefully selected and prepared with precision.
During the session, the patient is required to lie down in a prone position. Then the medicated oil is poured on the Kati Basti ring and kept at the body part for 30-40 minutes. The Kati Basti treatment offered by Jiva Ayurveda is tailored to your individual needs and preferences. We will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns.
Kati Basti is a Panchakarma therapy which has a lot of benefits. It supports the overall wellbeing of the lower back and lower body, as well as strengthening the tissues in the spine and providing relief from pain. Some more benefits of Kati Basti are:
The duration of Kati Basti is from 7 to 21 days.
The Kati Basti session usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes. The duration, however, varies depending on individual needs and the specific condition being treated.
Rest and gentle movement are recommended for a few days following Kati Basti treatment. Also, stress on the lumbar region should be avoided while undergoing Kati Basti treatment.
A dough prepared out of black gram flour or whole wheat flour and water is prepared for Kati Basti treatment.
Kati Basti involves creating a reservoir of warm, medicated oil or decoction on the lower back, which is thought to relieve pain and improve health in that region.
