BASTI KARMA AS ARDHA CHIKITSA: A REVIEW

In Ayurveda, Chikitsa is not limited to symptom relief but aims to restore the individual’s natural state of balance and health. Shodhana refers to purification therapies, among which Basti holds a unique and important place due to its wide therapeutic benefits. Basti mainly acts on Vata Dosha at its primary site, the Pakwashaya (large intestine). Since Vata regulates most bodily and metabolic functions, balancing it helps normalize various physiological processes. The medicinal properties of Basti spread throughout the body and aid in eliminating aggravated Doshas. Ayurveda considers Basti the most effective therapy for controlling Vata disorders. Thus, Basti is regarded as a comprehensive therapy with preventive, curative, promotive, and rejuvenating effects. Different types of Basti can be formulated using various drugs according to the patient’s condition and disease.