Kati Basti
Kati Basti is an Ayurvedic therapy that retains warm, medicated herbal oil over the lower back (lumbar/lumbosacral region) using a dough reservoir to relieve pain, stiffness and inflammation.
About Kati Basti
Kati Basti (also called Kati Vasti) derives from Sanskrit: “Kati” meaning lower back and “Basti” meaning retention. In this focused therapy, a ring-shaped dam made of black gram or wheat flour dough is placed on the lumbar area, within which warm, medicated herbal oil is poured and retained for a set period. The sustained heat and herbal infusion deeply nourishes muscles, ligaments, nerves and bones of the back, relieving pain, improving flexibility, reducing stiffness, and enhancing circulation. Often preceded by Abhyanga and fomentation, Kati Basti is especially effective for chronic lower back and spinal conditions.
Treatment Process
Consultation & Preparation
Ayurvedic physician evaluates your prakriti, back condition and selects suitable oil. May include pre‑treatments such as Abhyanga or herbal bolus (Churna Pinda Sweda) to prepare the tissues.
Construction of Dough Reservoir
A ring-shaped wall made from warmed black gram or whole wheat flour dough is placed over the lumbar area (around pain point).
Oil Retention (Pradhana Karma)
Warm medicated oil is poured into the dough ring and retained for approx. 30–45 minutes. Oil temperature is maintained by replacing cooled oil as needed.
Massage & Steam
After removing the oil and dough, the area is lightly massaged and followed by herbal steam to deepen penetration and promote relaxation.
Rest and After-care
Client rests on the table for 10–15 minutes post‑treatment. Oil residue may be left for gradual absorption. Follow‑up advice and gentle movement recommended.
Benefits
- Relieves chronic lower back pain and stiffness
- Reduces muscle spasms and nerve compression (e.g. sciatica)
- Improves flexibility, posture and range of motion
- Nourishes muscles, ligaments and bone tissue
- Promotes deeper relaxation of back and nervous system
- Improves blood circulation and metabolic activity in lumbar region
Recommendations
- •Avoid heavy meals 1–2 hours before session
- •Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can handle oil stains
- •Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 24 hours afterward
- •Leave residual oil on back for at least one hour post‑treatment
- •Use warm water or gentle herbal steam to cleanse later if needed
Contraindications
- •Acute fever or infectious conditions
- •Recent lower back surgery or spinal injury
- •Open wounds, inflammations or skin infections in treatment area
- •Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- •Severe osteoporosis or spinal fractures
- •Bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant therapy
- •Severe spinal tumors or central neuropathies
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