Abstract

AN ANCIENT ASPECT OF BASTI- A LITERARY STUDY

Dr. Pragati P. Wajire*, Dr. Ashwini Wani, Dr. Bhairavi Deshmukh and Dr. Shyamsundar Bhutada

Abstract

Basti is a Panchakarma chikitsa mentioned in various texts for cleansing the internal body. Panchakarma plays a significant role in eliminating the disease and its wide applicability. Acharyas to describe it as 'Chikitsardha'. Due to its unique characteristics, this have chosen to delve deeper into its understanding by studying various texts, starting with the oldest one, the Vedas. Basti has been mentioned in almost all texts, including the Vedas, Puranas, Yogic and Ayurvedic Samhitas. Although several Acharyas discussed the different types and uses of Basti, most of the ayurvedic texts focused on its role in pacifying Vata Dosha.

Keywords: Basti, Chikitsardha, Samhita, Veda, Purana, Yogic Vatadosha.