What is Lekhana Basti?
Lekhana Basti is a cleansing enema that involves the administration of herbal decoctions and oils into the colon. The term Lekhana means “scraping” in Sanskrit, referring to the scraping away of excess fat, toxins, and unwanted accumulations from the body. It is one of the types of Shodhana Basti, which is intended to remove deep-seated impurities.
How Lekhana Basti Helps with Weight Management
a) Scraping of Excess Fat: The herbs used in Lekhana Basti have potent Lekhana (scraping) properties, which help break down and eliminate excess fat tissues. The therapy is particularly useful for those with a Kapha body type, which tends to accumulate fat and retain water.
b) Detoxification: The enema clears out toxins (Ama) from the colon and surrounding tissues, which can be a contributing factor to weight gain and sluggish metabolism. By cleansing the body of toxins, metabolism is improved, promoting fat burning and efficient digestion.
c) Regulating Metabolism: By balancing Kapha and stimulating Agni (digestive fire), Lekhana Basti helps regulate metabolism, thereby preventing further accumulation of fat.
d) Improving Digestion: The therapy enhances digestive function, allowing for better nutrient absorption and reducing the risk of weight gain due to poor digestion.
Who Can Benefit from Lekhana Basti?
Lekhana Basti is generally recommended for individuals who are experiencing conditions associated with excess Kapha and Ama, such as:
a) Obesity
b) Water retention
c) Metabolic disorders
d) Sluggish digestion
e) Lethargy
It is especially beneficial for those with a predominance of Kapha dosha as it helps remove the excess elements of earth and water that lead to heaviness, stagnation, and weight gain.
Procedure Of Lekhana Basti
1. Pre-Procedure Preparation (Purva Karma)
Before the administration of Lekhana Basti, certain preparatory procedures are recommended. These steps help in softening and loosening the toxins so that they can be eliminated effectively during the main therapy.
a) Consultation and Assessment: A qualified Ayurvedic practitioner conducts a thorough evaluation of the patient’s constitution (Prakriti), current imbalances (Vikriti), and health condition. This includes determining the dominant dosha and assessing factors like digestion, body type, and the presence of toxins.
b) Snehana (Oleation): Internal and external oleation involves the application or consumption of medicinal oils or ghee. This helps to lubricate the tissues and prepare them for the elimination of fat and toxins. In some cases, the patient is given medicated ghee or oil to consume for a few days before the enema.
c) Swedana (Fomentation or Sudation): After oleation, fomentation therapy using steam or heat is employed to further soften the tissues and mobilize toxins. This enhances the body’s ability to release waste material through the digestive tract.
Also Read: How Ayurveda Can Transform Your Gastrointestinal Health
2. Main Procedure (Pradhana Karma)
The actual Lekhana Basti procedure involves the administration of a medicated enema into the colon. This is the primary stage where the therapeutic action of scraping away fat and toxins occurs.
a) Ingredients: A decoction of herbal medicines with Lekhana (scraping) properties is prepared. Common ingredients include Triphala, Trikatu (a combination of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper), Dashamoola (a group of ten medicinal roots), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), honey, and medicated oils.
b) Positioning: The patient is asked to lie on their left side with their right knee bent towards the chest. This position helps relax the muscles and allows for easy insertion of the enema.
c) Enema Administration: The Ayurvedic therapist inserts a lubricated, sterilized enema tube gently into the rectum. The prepared herbal decoction or medicated oil is then administered slowly into the colon through the tube. The amount of liquid used is carefully determined based on the patient’s body type and condition.
d) Retention and Absorption: The patient is encouraged to hold the enema fluid for a specific period, usually between 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the nature of the therapy. During this time, the herbs and oils work to scrape away excess fat, liquefy toxins, and stimulate the digestive system. The body absorbs the medicinal properties of the ingredients, which help in reducing Kapha and fat tissue.
e) Elimination: Once the enema is absorbed and the retention time is over, the patient feels the urge to evacuate the bowels. The expelled waste material typically includes toxins, excess fat, and other impurities that were mobilized by the enema.
Also Read: Ayursh Ayurveda- Your place to get personalized Home Ayurvedic Therapies
3. Post-Procedure Care (Paschat Karma)
After the administration of Lekhana Basti, certain post-treatment guidelines are followed to ensure the body continues to detoxify and recuperate effectively.
a) Rest: The patient is advised to rest after the therapy to allow the body to recover and integrate the treatment’s effects.
b) Light Diet: A light, easily digestible diet (such as rice porridge or boiled vegetables) is recommended for a few days post-treatment. This helps the digestive system adjust and prevents the accumulation of new toxins.
c) Hydration: Drinking warm water or herbal teas supports the continued elimination of toxins from the body.
d) Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients are often given recommendations for maintaining the benefits of Lekhana Basti through diet, exercise, and stress management. This may include avoiding foods that aggravate Kapha (such as heavy, oily, and sweet foods) and engaging in regular physical activity.
Lekhana Basti contra indications
Lekhana Basti is contraindicated for individuals who are excessively weak, emaciated, or dehydrated. It should not be administered to those with chronic diarrhea, severe digestive disorders, or inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are typically advised against undergoing this therapy. People with acute fevers, infections, or conditions involving bleeding should also avoid it. Additionally, those with imbalanced Vata or experiencing excessive dryness should not undergo Lekhana Basti, as it can aggravate these conditions. Always consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner before considering this treatment.
