Janu Basti : healing therapy for those painful knees

Janu Basti is a type of Ayurvedic therapy that is focused on relieving knee pain and stiffness. It involves the use of warm herbal oil or medicated ghee, which is poured and held in a reservoir made out of dough or flour that is placed on the knee joint.

Janu Basti: Introduction

Definition of Janu Basti

Janu Basti is a form of Ayurvedic therapy that focuses on the knee joint. In this therapy, a reservoir made of dough or flour is placed on the knee and filled with warm herbal oil or medicated ghee. The oil or ghee is then held in the reservoir for a specific period of time, allowing it to penetrate the tissues of the knee joint.

History of the Therapy:

Janu Basti therapy has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat knee pain and stiffness. Its origins can be traced back to ancient India, where Ayurvedic practitioners developed a wide range of treatments to address various health concerns. Janu Basti is one of these treatments and has been refined and passed down through generations of practitioners.

Janu Basti Benefits

Janu Basti therapy provides several benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation in the knee joint, improving joint mobility and flexibility, and enhancing overall joint health. The warm oil or ghee used in the therapy helps to lubricate the knee joint, reduce friction, and nourish the tissues. Janu Basti is also a natural and non-invasive treatment, making it an attractive option for individuals who prefer to avoid medications or surgery.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

1. Consultation with an Ayurvedic practitioner

Before taking Janu Basti therapy, it is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner. During the consultation, the practitioner will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle habits. They may also perform a physical exam to check the knee joint and determine if the therapy is needed for your knee condition.

2. Diagnosis of the knee condition

Based on the consultation and examination, the Ayurvedic practitioner will diagnose the knee condition and determine the appropriate oil or ghee to be used during the Janu Basti therapy. The choice of oil or ghee will depend on the individual’s dosha (body type), the severity of the knee condition, and other factors. Typically, medicated oils or ghees infused with herbs are used to enhance the therapeutic benefits of the treatment.

3. Explanation of the treatment process and expectations

Once the diagnosis and oil or ghee selection have been made, the Ayurvedic practitioner will explain the Janu Basti therapy process and what to expect during the treatment. They will explain the benefits of the treatment, how the oil or ghee will be applied, and the duration of the treatment. The practitioner will also provide instructions for post-treatment care and any dietary or lifestyle changes that may be recommended to support the healing process. By fully understanding the treatment process and what to expect, individuals can make an informed decision about whether Janu Basti is the right treatment for them.

Procedure of the therapy

Preparation of the reservoir using dough or flour

The first step in the Janu Basti therapy process is the preparation of the reservoir, which is made of dough or flour. The practitioner will create a small ring-shaped structure using dough or flour and place it on the knee joint. The reservoir is designed to hold the warm oil or ghee during the treatment process.

Pouring of warm herbal oil or medicated ghee into the reservoir

Once the reservoir has been prepared, the Ayurvedic practitioner will pour warm herbal oil or medicated ghee into it. The temperature of the oil or ghee is typically kept at a warm, comfortable level, so as not to cause discomfort or burning sensation.

Application of the reservoir on the knee joint

The reservoir filled with warm oil or ghee is then placed on the knee joint. The practitioner will ensure that the reservoir is securely attached and does not leak during the treatment process. This allows the oil or ghee to remain in contact with the knee joint and penetrate deeply into the tissues.

Holding of the oil or ghee in the reservoir for a specific period of time

The practitioner will hold the oil or ghee in the reservoir for a specific period of time, typically around 20-30 minutes. During this time, the warmth and medicinal properties of the oil or ghee work to nourish and heal the knee joint.

Repeating the process on the other knee, if necessary 

If the individual is experiencing knee pain or stiffness in both knees, the Janu Basti therapy process will be repeated on the other knee. This ensures that both knees receive the benefits of the therapy. Once the treatment is complete, the practitioner will gently remove the reservoir and may perform a gentle massage on the knee joint to further promote healing.

Post Treatment Care

Gentle massage of the knee joint 

After the Janu Basti therapy process is complete, the Ayurvedic practitioner may perform a gentle massage of the knee joint. The massage helps to further promote the absorption of the oil or ghee into the tissues and can also help to improve circulation to the area. The massage is typically gentle and non-invasive, focusing on relaxing the muscles and tissues around the knee joint.

Rest and relaxation to allow the oil or ghee to penetrate the knee tissues

Following the therapy, it is important to rest and relax for a period of time to allow the oil or ghee to fully penetrate the knee tissues. This may involve taking some time to lie down and relax or avoiding strenuous activity for a few hours after the therapy. This helps to ensure that the benefits of the knee joint has a chance to heal.

Dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support the healing process

To support the healing process after Janu Basti therapy, the Ayurvedic practitioner may recommend specific dietary and lifestyle changes. This may include easily digestible foods,  and avoiding inflammatory foods, such as processed or fried foods.

The practitioner may also recommend gentle exercise or yoga poses that can help to strengthen and support the knee joint, as well as stress-reducing techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises. By making these changes, individuals can support the healing process and maintain the benefits of the Janu Basti therapy over time.

Conclusion:

Janu Basti therapy can benefit individuals with knee pain or stiffness by reducing inflammation, improving mobility and flexibility, and providing nourishment to knee joint tissues. It can also promote relaxation and reduce stress, contributing to overall health and well-being. 

For best results, regular therapy sessions are recommended, typically weekly or bi-weekly depending on the severity of the condition. 

Seeking the advice of an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner is important for personalized treatment, including dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support healing. Working with a practitioner ensures safe and effective treatment, leading to optimal results.