Janu Basti

Janu Basti

Janu Basti is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy focused on the knee joint area (“Janu” means knee, “Basti” means to retain).
In this treatment, warm medicated oil is pooled over the knee joint using a specially prepared dough ring.
It is primarily used for relieving knee pain, stiffness, and degeneration caused by arthritis, injuries, or age-related wear and tear.
This therapy deeply nourishes the joint, reduces inflammation, and strengthens surrounding

Types of Janu Basti

  1. Sneha Janu Basti – Uses medicated herbal oils for lubrication and nourishment of the knee joint.

  2. Ksheera Janu Basti – Uses milk processed with herbs, beneficial for inflammation and cooling effect.

  3. Kashaya Janu Basti – Uses herbal decoctions for detoxification and reduction of swelling.

  4. Combined Janu Basti – A mix of oils, decoctions, and herbal pastes for multiple therapeutic effects.

How it Works

  • A dough ring made of black gram flour or wheat flour is placed around the knee joint.

  • Warm medicated oil or herbal decoction is poured into the ring and kept at a consistent temperature.

  • The warmth allows deep penetration of medicinal properties into the joint tissues.

  • This improves blood circulation, nourishes cartilage, reduces stiffness, and promotes healing of damaged tissues.

Benefits of Janu Basti

  • Relieves knee pain, stiffness, and swelling

  • Improves flexibility and mobility of the joint

  • Strengthens muscles, ligaments, and tendons around the knee

  • Delays progression of degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis

  • Enhances lubrication in the joint

  • Reduces inflammation and supports tissue repair

  • Provides relaxation and improves overall joint function

Precautions

  • Avoid in open wounds, skin infections, or fractures around the knee

  • Should not be done during fever or acute inflammation without doctor’s advice

  • People with deep vein thrombosis or severe varicose veins should consult an Ayurvedic physician first

  • Must be performed by a trained Ayurvedic therapist to ensure correct temperature and technique

Typical Session

  • Duration: 30–45 minutes per knee

  • Process:

    1. Health assessment and selection of appropriate medicated oil or decoction

    2. Preparation of dough ring and placement around the knee

    3. Pouring warm oil/herbal liquid into the ring and maintaining temperature

    4. Gentle massage after removing the ring to enhance absorption

  • Frequency: Daily or on alternate days for 7–14 days depending on the condition

  • Aftercare: Avoid cold exposure, keep the knee warm, and follow gentle knee exercises as advised