Due to its remarkable effects on the human body, Vasti, or the Ayurveda Enema, is regarded as the “King” of all Ayurvedic therapies. Among the Panchakarmas, it is regarded as the most effective therapeutic approach. It is considered one of the best forms of treatment for all conditions related to Vata ( Rheumatism). In the Sanskrit Language, ‘Vasti’ means ‘to retain’. So, if you take a look at this treatment, the Ayurvedic drug is retained inside the body for a certain amount of time before being expelled.

Significance of Vasti

The colon’s primary function is absorption. In addition, the colon has a dense network of nerves that link to the Central Nervous System (comprising the Brain and Spinal cord). As a result, the nerves of the colon are often referred to as the “Gut-Brain.“

 

Anal administration of medications, Vasti, results in the bio-purification or flushing out of harmful waste from the colons. Furthermore, the colon absorbs the effects of the treatment like a sponge, which improves the colon’s nerves and therefore the Central Nervous System.

Types of Vasti

Vasti is classified into numerous types based on several criteria. Based on the route of administration, Vasti is divided into:-

1. Urinary/Genital Route – Uttara Vasthi
2. Anal Route– 2 types – Sneha Vasti and Kashaya Vasti
3. Wounds– Vrana Vasti

Based on the nature of the drug administered, it is divided into:-

1. Anuvasana Vasti or Oil Enema ( Sneha Vasti)
2. Niruha Vasti or Decoction Enema (Kashaya Vasti)

Based on the number of Vasti given:-

1. Karma Vasti-  A total of 30 Vasti are given altogether.
2. Kala Vasti- A total of 16 Vasti are given altogether.
3. Yoga Vasti- A total of 8 Vasti are given altogether.

 

UTTARA VASTI

Administration of Liquid medication via the Genito-urinary route is called Uttara Vasti. 

• Men- Urethral Route
• Women- Vaginal and Urethral Route

Drugs administered are usually Kashayas (Herbal Decoctions) or Sneha (Ghee or Oil enemas).

Indications in Men

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH)	Infertility
Rectovesical Fistula	Erectile Dysfunction
Cystitis- Inflammation of the Urinary Bladder	Oligospermia- Fewer sperm cells in Semen
Urolithiasis- Urinary Stones	Impotency

Indications in Women

Uterine/Vaginal Prolapse	Amenorrhoea- Absence of menstruation
Dysmenorrhoea- Painful menstruation	Menstrual Disorders
Infertility	Urinary Infections
Kidney Stones

SNEHA VASTI (ANUVASANA VASTI)

Administration of Medicated Oil or Ghee via the rectal route is called Sneha Vasti.

Sneha Vasti detoxifies the colon and helps flush out toxins from the lower body.

Medication is always administered after consuming food. Sneha Vasti is never given on an empty stomach.

The physician determines dosage according to the Patient’s condition.

Matra Vasti– Same as Sneha Vasti with the dosage of medicated oil reduced to half.

Indications of Sneha Vasti

All Rheumatic Conditions	Heart Conditions
Hemiplegia	Menstrual disorders
Quadriplegia	Urolithiasis- Urinary stones
Gout	Torticollis
Disorders of the Gastrointestinal System	Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Spleen Disorders	Facial Paralysis

Contraindications of Sneha Vasti

Filariasis- Parasitic disease caused by microscopic worms	Jaundice
Acute fever	Diabetes Mellitus
Anemia	Hemorrhoids
Indigestion

NIRUHA VASTI (ASTHAPANA VASTI)

Administration of Medicated Decoctions via the Anal route, Vaginal, and Urethral routes, or Wound is called Niruha Vasti.

Niruha Vasti enhances the lifespan and diminishes the aging process of the patient, hence it is also called Asthapana Vasti.

Niruha Vasti is only administered on an empty stomach.

Indications of Niruha Vasti

Hemiplegia	Quadriplegia
Bell’s Palsy	Ascariasis
Tremors	All Rheumatic Conditions
Hernia	Menstrual Disorders
Glaucoma	Anal Fissures
Gout	Fistula in ano
Lockjaw

Contraindications of Niruha Vasti

Indigestion	Acute Fever
Diarrhoea	Emaciation
Extremely old people	Anemia
Skin Disorders	Anorexia
Diabetes Mellitus	Obesity
Hemorrhoids	Ascites
Intestinal Perforation	Alcohol Intoxication
Extreme Fatigue	After having food

                                              

CAUTION: All of the medications and treatment procedures described here are being used solely for educational reasons. This does not replace seeking expert medical advice. Before using any medications, please seek the advice of a licensed Ayurvedic practitioner. Please keep out of the reach of children.

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