Anuvasana Enemas (Anuvasana Basti)
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
Part of a treatment regimen involving Yapana and milk enemas.
Modern description
An oil-based enema primarily used to pacify aggravated Vata dosha, provide nourishment, and promote strength.
Purpose
Part of a treatment regimen involving Yapana and milk enemas.
Indications
- Vata disorders, constipation, emaciation, dryness of colon, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal pain, promoting strength, nourishing tissues.
Classical indications
- Vata Vyadhis (disorders caused due to vitiated vata)
- Rukshata (dryness) in the body
- Increased Agni (digestion, metabolism)
Karma
- Vatahara
- Brumhana
- Snehana
Key ingredients
- Sesame oil is the primary ingredient. Other possible additions based on the patient's condition
- Rock Salt
- honey
- herbal decoctions
Adult dose
60-120 ml (approximately 2-4 ounces) - adjusted based on age, strength, and disease condition.
Pediatric dose
10-30 ml (Adjusted based on age and weight)
Preparation steps
- Gather all necessary ingredients and equipment: Medicated oil, enema bag or syringe, lubricant (e.g., coconut oil or ghee), warm water.
- Warm the medicated oil to body temperature by placing the container in warm water.
- Prepare the patient by advising them to empty their bowels and bladder before the procedure.
- Position the patient on their left side with their right knee drawn towards their chest.
- Lubricate the tip of the enema syringe or catheter with coconut oil or ghee.
- Gently insert the syringe or catheter into the rectum.
- Administer the warm medicated oil slowly and steadily.
- Instruct the patient to retain the oil for as long as possible, ideally for at least 3-9 hours or overnight.
- After the retention period, the patient can evacuate the enema.
- Advise the patient to rest and avoid strenuous activities after the procedure.
Safety contraindications
- Acute fever
- Diarrhea
- Intestinal bleeding
- Abscesses or infections in the intestines
- Anal or rectal injuries
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes (Prameha)
- Kapha predominant diseases
- When doshas are associated with Ama (indigested metabolic waste)
Related formulations
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical source treatise: Ashtanga Hridaya.
- Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI), Part I & II, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Sharangadhara Samhita, and Sahasrayogam clinical guidelines.
Published by formulations.directory