sneha vasti

Snehavasthi, also spelled Sneha Vasti or Sneha Basti, is a therapeutic oil enema treatment and a key procedure in the traditional Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda. It involves the administration of medicated oils into the rectum.

Purpose and Benefits

Sneha Vasti is primarily used to balance the Vata dosha (one of the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda) and eliminate accumulated toxins, especially from the colon and lower body.

Benefits of the treatment include:

• Nourishing the lower digestive tract and tissues.

• Lubricating joints and supporting the nervous system.

• Addressing chronic constipation and digestive problems.

• Treating Vata-related disorders such as lower backache, sciatica, gout, rheumatism, and some neurological conditions and paralysis.

• Promoting longevity, enhancing metabolism, and boosting immunity.

Procedure

The procedure is typically performed by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner after the patient has undergone preparatory treatments like internal oiling (Snehapana) and massage/steam therapy (Abhyanga and Swedana).

1. The patient usually eats a light, Vata-pacifying meal beforehand.

2. The patient lies on their left side, with their left leg extended and right thigh folded.

3. Warmed, medicated oil or ghee is administered into the rectum using a specialized enema apparatus.

4. The patient is then asked to lie on their back and perform some gentle leg movements to help retain the oil.

5. The oil is retained for a specific period, usually between 30 minutes and two hours, after which it is naturally expelled along with waste materials and toxins. If the oil is not expelled within the timeframe, it is considered absorbed and is not a cause for concern.

Sneha Vasti can be done alone or in combination with other Panchakarma treatments, such as Kashaya Vasti (a decoction enema).