Shiro Basti

Shirovasti is a type of Murdhataila, in which the medicated oil is kept over the head with the help of a cap fixed for a prescribed period of time.

How it is done ?

The patient is made to sit comfortably in a armed chair .The strip of cloth smeared with paste of black gram powder should be wound around the head 2 cm above the eye brows. It must be tight enough to prevent leaking of oil, but not causing any discomfort.

Then the cap is to be fixed over the strip and the junctions are to be sealed with black gram paste. To seal the junctions leak free, another layer of cloth smeared with the paste is also applied over the cap. The medicated oil heated just above the body temperature is to be slowly poured inside the cap over the head without any discomfort to the patient .The oil is to be filled up to a height of 5 cm above the scalp. Temperature of the oil (warmness) is to be maintained by replacing with warm oil at regular intervals.

The process is to be continued for 45 minutes. At the end of the procedure, the oil is to be taken out by dipping cotton piece and squeezing in a container so as to recollect the oil. After this the cap is removed and head Wash is done. After wiping off the oil with clean and dry towel, Rasnadi Churna is applied. Gentle massage is performed on shoulder, neck forehead and back.

Duration:

The usual course of therapy is 7 days and is usually done in the afternoon or evening (between 3 and 5 PM) for an average time of 45 minutes.

Benefits:

  • Treatment for Vata vikaras of head
  • Useful in neurological complaints, chronic diseases, etc.
  • Strengthens the organs in the head and soothes the mind.