Basti (Enema)
1 Dec 2019 HYN Himalayan Yoga Academy
Overview
Basti involves the introduction of certain oils, and herbal decoctions, into the colon through the rectum, for removing toxins accumulated in the intestines and colon.
Benefits
Basti puts the body into a state of balance by nourishing the colonic flora. A localized and symptomatic treatment, Basti has multiple effects for treating various illnesses such as chronic constipation, low back pain, sciatica, rheumatism, gout, arthritis, and neuromuscular disorders. It is considered one of the best remedies for numerous psycho-somatic diseases.
Contraindications: Avoid the treatment during pregnancy and menstruation, as well as for those suffering from diarrhea, inflammation of the anus, or rectal bleeding.
Steps of Basti
- The best times for basti are in the early morning or evening (vata times).
- The stomach should be empty; wait at least three hours after eating.
- Make sure the environment is warm, comfortable, and clean. An area where you can lie down near a toilet is best.
- Materials needed include an enema bag or syringe, measuring cup, hotplate or stove, oil and/or herbal substance, and towels.
Basti is typically administered in two stages: an oil stage and a decoction stage. In the first stage, a practitioner introduces five ounces of warm sesame oil into the rectum. Then, the patient retains it for ten minutes. Without expelling the oil, the practitioner then introduces an emulsion of oil and herbal tea, which the patient retains for thirty minutes. This mixture consists of five ounces of sesame oil combined with sixteen ounces of herbal tea. It is made by steeping herbs in hot water, straining, and cooling the liquid to body temperature or slightly warmer.
Suspend the enema bag three feet above your position. After filling the bag with the appropriate fluid, expel all the air from the tube. Lie on your left side with your left leg extended and your right knee flexed. Lubricate the tip of the syringe with oil or ghee, then clean and lubricate the anal area, checking for any hemorrhoids, fissures, or fistulas. Carefully and slowly insert the tip into the rectum, release the clip to allow all the fluid to enter, and then remove the tip. Next, assume a hands-and-knee position, elevating the buttocks to relax the colon. Gently tap the colon area, starting from the sigmoid, and moving through the transverse colon to the ascending colon and caecum. Finally, periodically massage the colon in a counterclockwise motion.
After retaining the fluid for the appropriate time, sit on the toilet to pass the fluid and fecal matter. You may want to wear a sanitary pad for a few hours following Basti in case of any residual oil seepage. It’s good to eat an hour or so after Basti, but only when you feel hungry.