Janu Basti is a specialized form of Sthanik Basti (localized oil pooling therapy) in Ayurveda. Here, warm medicated oil or ghee is retained over the knee joint for a specific period using a dough-ring reservoir.
The word Janu means knee and Basti means retaining/holding, so it literally means “oil retention therapy on the knee joint.”
✨ Indications / Uses
Janu Basti is mainly recommended for:
Knee osteoarthritis (Sandhigata Vata)
Joint stiffness & pain
Ligament/cartilage injuries
Meniscus tear (supportive)
Post-traumatic knee pain
Sports injuries
Age-related degeneration
🛁 Procedure
1. Purva Karma (Preparation)
Patient lies down comfortably.
Knee is cleaned and inspected.
A ring is made from black gram flour or wheat flour dough and placed around the knee.
2. Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure)
Warm medicated oil (like Mahanarayan Tailam, Dhanwantharam Tailam, Ksheerabala Tailam) is poured inside the dough ring over the knee joint.
The oil is kept warm by replacing/circulating it during the session.
Duration: 30–45 minutes.
3. Paschat Karma (After Procedure)
The oil is removed and the knee is gently massaged.
Light fomentation (steam/Swedana) may be given.
Patient is advised to avoid cold exposure and heavy strain on the knee.
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🌸 Benefits of Janu Basti
Lubricates the knee joint
Reduces pain, inflammation, and stiffness
Improves joint mobility and strength
Nourishes the surrounding tissues
Prevents further degeneration of cartilage and ligaments
Provides long-lasting relief in arthritis and age-related issues
⚠️ Contraindications
Avoid Janu Basti in:
Open wounds, skin infections around knee
Acute trauma with swelling/redness
Fractures (until healing is complete)
Severe systemic illness (unless supervised by a physician)
✅ In short: Janu Basti is a safe, simple, and effective Ayurvedic knee therapy that combines the anti-inflammatory and nourishing properties of medicated oils with localized application, offering relief in arthritis, stiffness, and degeneration.