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Basti Cleanse Information

Basti is a form of cleansing intended to remove built-up toxins and bacteria from the lower intestine. The procedure introduces water, herbal decoctions or medicated oils through the anus, vagina or urinary meatus.

  1. Types of Basti

    • There are eight basic types of Basti cleansing methods, according to the website Yogawiz.com. It lists them as Anuvasana Basti (medicated oil enema); Niruha-Asthapana Basti (herbal decoction enema); Uttar Basti (cleaning the urinary bladder using a catheter or cleaning the birth passage using a vaginal douche); Matra Basti (limited oil enema taken daily for three or seven days); Yoga Basti (scheduled enema for one week); Kala Basti (scheduled enema for 15 days); Karma Basti (scheduled enema for one month); and Bruhan Basti (nutritional enema).

    Technique

    • Yogawiz.com explains that a person employing a Basti method of cleansing inserts into the anus 2 to 3 inches of a 4-inch-long (10 centimeters), 0.39-inch-diameter (1 centimeter) sterilized rubber tube---lubricated with oil, petroleum jelly or soap. From a squatting position in a tub or tank of knee-deep water, the person contracts the anus and abdomen muscles, slowly sucking water into the intestines. An urge to evacuate the bowels follows.

      If you do not have access to a tub or tank, an enema may be used in its place.

    Benefits

    • Basti cleansing methods may help alleviate several types of stomach and intestinal disorders, according to Yogawiz.com, as well as chronic headaches and joint pain. Basti, the website asserts, is effective in cases of dry colon, which may cause constipation.

    Advisements

    • When performed properly, Basti cleansing has little or no negative side effects on the body, according to Yogawiz.com, but should only be employed once every three months. The website warns against the use of Basti cleansing methods for people with diarrhea, dysentery, rectal bleeding, diabetes, severe anemia, hypo-proteinaemia, breathlessness and pulmonary tuberculosis.

      If the procedure is conducted incorrectly, rectal tissue damage may result.

      Consult a physician before using Basti cleansing.

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