Janu Basti

🪔 Ayurvedic Perspective on Janu Basti

Janu Basti is a classical Ayurvedic external therapy used specifically for treating disorders related to the knee joints. It is a localized form of Snehana (oleation) and Swedana (sudation), where warm medicated oil is retained over the knee area within a dough ring for a specific duration.

In Ayurveda, the Janu Sandhi (knee joint) is a site where Vata dosha often accumulates, especially in old age or due to degenerative conditions. Aggravated Vata leads to symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, dryness, swelling, and difficulty in movement. Since Vata has properties like dryness (Ruksha), coldness (Sheeta), and mobility (Chala), it is pacified effectively through therapies that are warm, unctuous, and stabilizing in nature.

The procedure of Janu Basti involves making a leak-proof ring of black gram or wheat flour dough around the knee joint. Warm medicated oil such as Mahanarayan Taila, Sahacharadi Taila, or Dhanwantharam Taila is gently poured into this ring and retained for a specific period, usually between 30 to 45 minutes. The warmth of the oil, along with its herbal potency, allows deep penetration into the joint tissues.

The therapy nourishes the underlying cartilage, muscles, and ligaments, improves circulation in the joint, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the joint structure. It also alleviates pain, improves mobility, and supports regeneration of tissues when used regularly along with Ayurvedic medicines and dietary guidelines.

Janu Basti is especially useful in conditions such as Osteoarthritis (Sandhivata), Rheumatoid arthritis (Amavata), ligament injuries, sports-related wear and tear, age-related joint degeneration, and general knee stiffness or weakness. It is often recommended for both preventive and curative purposes in joint care.

 

This therapy is safe, non-invasive, and highly beneficial when performed under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.