Janu Basti (Traditional Oil pooling therapy for Knees)
Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints affecting people of all ages. Whether due to aging, injury, arthritis, or sedentary lifestyle, chronic knee discomfort can severely impact mobility and quality of life. At HATC (Healers Ayurvedic Therapy Center), we offer Janu Basti, a highly effective traditional Ayurvedic therapy designed specifically to nourish, […]
Book an AppointmentJanu Basti is a classic Ayurvedic local treatment therapy that involves retaining warm medicated oil over the knee joints for a specific period. The term “Janu” refers to “knee” in Sanskrit, and “Basti” means retaining or pooling.
This therapy creates a small well or dam using black gram dough around the knee area, into which warm herbal oil is slowly poured and retained. The oil penetrates deep into the tissues, providing therapeutic warmth, lubrication, and nourishment to the knee joint structures including bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
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Janu Basti is particularly known for its targeted relief and healing effects on chronic and acute knee issues. Here's how it helps:
✅ Pain Relief
Alleviates knee joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
Beneficial in cases of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and sports injuries.
✅ Improves Joint Mobility
Enhances flexibility and range of motion of the knees.
Reduces swelling and joint locking.
✅ Strengthens the Knee Joint
Rejuvenates the tissues and improves blood circulation to the joint.
Strengthens muscles, ligaments, and cartilage around the knee.
✅ Delays Degeneration
Slows down age-related wear and tear of joints.
Helps in managing degenerative joint diseases naturally.
✅ Stress Relief & Relaxation
The warm oil and gentle touch calm the nervous system.
Provides a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
At HATC, the therapy is performed by trained Ayurvedic therapists under expert supervision, following authentic traditional steps:
1. Preparation
The client is made to lie comfortably on a therapy table.
A dough ring (made from black gram flour) is shaped and sealed around the knee area.
2. Oil Heating
Specific medicated Ayurvedic oils (such as Mahanarayan Tailam, Dhanwantharam Tailam) are warmed to a soothing temperature.
3. Oil Pooling
The warm oil is slowly poured into the dough ring, filling the hollow over the knee.
The oil is retained for 20–30 minutes, maintaining the temperature throughout.
4. Massage and Compression
After removing the oil, a gentle knee massage is given to enhance absorption.
In some cases, steam or hot towel compression may be added for deeper penetration.
5. Post-Therapy Care
The area is cleaned, and specific joint-strengthening herbal lepas (paste) may be applied if needed.
Clients are advised to rest and avoid cold exposure after the session.
Janu Basti is ideal for individuals suffering from:
Osteoarthritis of the knee
Rheumatoid arthritis
Meniscus injuries
Chronic knee stiffness or tightness
Post-surgical recovery
Joint degeneration due to aging
Athletes with joint strain or overuse injuries
People with poor knee circulation or weakness
🧘♂️ Also recommended for those with sedentary lifestyles or occupations that involve long hours of sitting or standing.
❓ How many sessions of Janu Basti are required?
A typical course includes 5 to 7 sessions, depending on the severity of the condition. For chronic issues, 10–14 sessions may be advised.
❓ Is Janu Basti painful?
No, Janu Basti is a non-invasive, painless, and deeply soothing therapy. Most clients report immediate relief and relaxation after the first session.
❓ Can I take Janu Basti along with modern medicine?
Yes. Janu Basti can be safely taken as a complementary therapy. Always consult your Ayurvedic doctor for a personalized plan.
❓ Are there any side effects?
When performed by trained professionals using authentic Ayurvedic oils, Janu Basti has no known side effects. However, people with open wounds or active infections around the knee should avoid the therapy.
❓ Is it suitable for elderly people?
Absolutely! Janu Basti is particularly beneficial for seniors, as it helps reduce knee degeneration, pain, and stiffness naturally.