Basti Enema Equipment
Basti Enema Equipment (Sanskrit: Basti Yantra) is an instrument used in panchakarma equipment. Traditional enema apparatus consisting of a bladder-like bag (Basti Putaka, made from animal bladder or leather) attached to a tube (Basti Netra, made from metal). Used to administer medicated decoctions (Niruha Basti) or oils (Anuvasana Basti) rectally.
| Sanskrit name | Basti Yantra |
|---|---|
| Ayurvedic category | Panchakarma Equipment |
Traditional enema apparatus consisting of a bladder-like bag (Basti Putaka, made from animal bladder or leather) attached to a tube (Basti Netra, made from metal). Used to administer medicated decoctions (Niruha Basti) or oils (Anuvasana Basti) rectally.
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Sushruta Samhita Chikitsasthana Chapter 35-38; Charaka Samhita Siddhisthana Chapters 1-12. Basti is considered ‘Ardha Chikitsa’ (half of all treatment) by Charaka.
How is it used traditionally?
Primary therapy for Vata disorders, constipation, lower back pain, sciatica, arthritis, neurological conditions. Niruha Basti (decoction enema) for cleansing; Anuvasana Basti (oil enema) for nourishment.
Traditional materials
- Animal bladder (Basti Putaka)
- Metal nozzle/tube (Basti Netra) made of gold, silver, or brass
- Leather bag
- Bone or ivory nozzle tips
Modern variants
- Stainless steel Basti cans
- Rubber enema bags
- Disposable PVC enema kits
- Silicone nozzles
Regulatory status
- India Cdsco: Modern enema equipment is classified under Class A/B medical devices when marketed for therapeutic use.
- Us Fda: Enema kits are FDA-regulated Class I medical devices (Product Code FEF/FEG). 510(k) exempt in many cases.
- Eu Mdr: Classified under Class I or IIa depending on invasiveness and intended use under EU MDR 2017/745.
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