Greeva Basti Therapy

Greeva Basti Therapy

Greeva Basti is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy focused on the neck region (“Greeva” means neck, “Basti” means to retain).
In this treatment, warm medicated oil is pooled over the back of the neck inside a specially prepared dough ring.
It is mainly used to treat neck pain, stiffness, cervical spondylosis, and muscle spasms.
The therapy nourishes and strengthens the cervical spine, improves flexibility, and reduces inflammation

Types of Greeva Basti

  • Sneha Greeva Basti – Uses medicated herbal oils for lubrication and nourishment of neck muscles and joints.

  • Ksheera Greeva Basti – Uses milk processed with herbs; cooling effect, beneficial for inflammation.

  • Kashaya Greeva Basti – Uses herbal decoctions for reducing swelling and detoxifying the area.

  • Combined Greeva Basti – A mix of oils and decoctions for both nourishment and pain relief.

How it Works

  • A dough ring made of black gram or wheat flour is placed around the neck’s affected area.

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

  • The heat allows the medicinal properties to penetrate deep into the muscles, ligaments, and cervical vertebrae.

  • This improves blood circulation, relaxes muscles, lubricates joints, and reduces nerve compression.

Benefits of Greeva Basti Therapy

  • Relieves neck pain, stiffness, and tension

  • Improves neck flexibility and range of motion

  • Reduces inflammation and swelling in the cervical region

  • Strengthens neck muscles, ligaments, and joints

  • Helps in conditions like cervical spondylosis, frozen shoulder, and muscle spasms

  • Improves blood circulation to the head and neck area

  • Promotes relaxation and reduces stress-related neck tension

Precautions

  • Avoid during fever, skin infections, open wounds, or fractures in the neck area

  • Should not be done during acute inflammation without medical advice

  • People with severe neck injuries or spinal instability should consult an Ayurvedic physician first

  • Must be performed by a trained therapist to ensure correct oil temperature and safety

Typical Session

  • Duration: 30–45 minutes

  • Process:

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

    2. Preparation of dough ring and placement over the neck area

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

    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 neck warm, and follow posture/exercise recommendations