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Greeva Basti - Divyamrut Ayurcare

Greeva Basti Therapy

Manal-Kizhi

Greeva Basti is a specialized Ayurvedic external therapy designed for the neck region (Greeva Pradesh) to relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

The term Greeva Basti is derived from:
Greeva (ग्रीवा) – Neck
Basti (बस्ति) – Retention or pooling of medicated oil

This therapy is highly beneficial for cervical spondylosis, neck pain, and Vata disorders affecting the cervical spine. Greeva Basti is part of Bahyakarma (external therapies) in Ayurveda and works by deeply nourishing the muscles, nerves, and bones in the neck area.

Procedure

  • Purva Karma (Pre-Treatment Preparation)

    The patient is positioned comfortably in prone (face down) or sitting posture. A gentle Abhyangam (oil massage) is performed on the neck with Maha Narayana Taila or Ksheerabala Taila to prepare the tissues. A leak-proof ring (Basti Kunda) is made using black gram flour around the cervical spine (neck area). The prepared dough is securely fixed to ensure proper retention of oil.

  • Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure)

    Warm medicated oil is carefully poured into the dough ring to submerge the neck region. The oil is maintained at a therapeutic temperature (around 40°C) by continuously replacing it with warm oil. The oil is retained for 20–40 minutes, allowing deep penetration into muscles, ligaments, and nerves. During this process, mild circular massages (Sukshma Mardana) may be given for better absorption.

  • Paschat Karma (Post-Treatment Care)

    The oil is slowly removed and the area is cleaned with a warm herbal decoction. A mild herbal steam therapy (Nadi Swedana) is applied to enhance relaxation. The patient is advised to avoid cold exposure, sudden movements, and heavy physical work for a few hours. Light and easily digestible food is recommended post-therapy.

Indications (When to Use Greeva Basti)

  • Greeva Shoola (Neck Pain) : Relieves pain caused by Vata imbalance
  • Manyastambha (Cervical Stiffness & Spondylosis) : Eases restricted movement.
  • Cervical Spondylosis (Greeva Sandhigata Vata) : Reduces degeneration of cervical discs.
  • Frozen Shoulder & Trapezitis : Strengthens shoulder and neck muscles.
  • Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in the Neck): Improves nerve function.
  • Tension Headache & Migraine (Shirashoola): Relieves tension and stress-related pain.
  • Vertigo (Bhrama Roga): Balances Vata and improves blood circulation to the brain.
  • Neck & Shoulder Muscle Spasms (Mamsa Kandu): Reduces involuntary muscle contractions.

Contraindications (When to Avoid Greeva Basti)

  • Fever & Infections (Jwara Avastha): Avoid in acute infections or high fever.
  • Severe Inflammation & Open Wounds: Can worsen certain inflammatory conditions.
  • Recent Neck Injury or Fracture: Should not be done without proper medical guidance.
  • Skin Allergies or Dermatitis in the Neck Region: May cause irritation.
  • Pregnancy (Garbha Avastha): Should be done only under medical supervision.
  • Balances Kapha Dosha : Prevents excessive mucus formation and oral heaviness.

Outcomes and Benefits

  • Reduces Neck Pain & Stiffness (Shoola Nashaka & Stambha Hara) :Provides deep relaxation and pain relief.
  • Lubricates Cervical Joints (Sandhi Snehanam): Prevents wear and tear of the cervical vertebrae.
  • Enhances Nerve Function (Vatahara & Snayu Poshaka): Strengthens nerves and prevents compression.
  • Improves Blood Circulation (Raktha Samvahana Vardhaka): Enhances healing and nourishment to the area.
  • Relieves Stress & Anxiety (Mano Santulana Kriya): Induces deep relaxation and calms the nervous system.
  • Corrects Posture-related Disorders (Kaya Sthirata Vardhaka): Supports spinal alignment and muscle balance.
Conclusion

Greeva Basti is a highly effective Ayurvedic therapy for chronic neck pain, cervical spondylosis, and nerve-related disorders. By deeply nourishing and rejuvenating the cervical spine, it helps prevent degenerative conditions, improves mobility, and enhances overall spinal health.