Greeva Basti /Merudanda vasti - Greeva refers to the neck and basti means ' holding in place'. Greeva Basti is oil pooling done over the Cervical region of the spine. The treatment is aimed at eliminating the vata diseases of the neck. 

How does it work?

Our body is made up of many types of cells, and each cell membrane is made up of phospholipids, lipid-soluble substances may readily penetrate the cell membrane, hence the base of the medicine that we use is in lipid form (medicated oils).

As soon as the process begins, medicinal oil penetrates the skin's cell membrane and increases the activity of phospholipids, which in turn serves as a carrier for different cellular components or contaminants that cause diseases. By raising the local temperature over 2 to 3 degrees Celsius, the Luke warm oil will cause vasodilatation, improve blood circulation, supply the required oxygen and nutrients, and eliminate free radicals responsible for the discomfort in the body part.

The medication used in this therapy has a sedative effect due to its pharmacological properties, which include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and muscle relaxant effects. It also provides the right amount of space for nerves to pass through the spine and acts as a counterirritant, which is a thermal stimulus that may affect pain perception. In addition, it relaxes muscles and improves their action efficiency since the increased blood flow guarantees the best possible conditions for muscular contraction; it lubricates joints, nourishes cartilage, bone, and nerves, and prevents degenration.

Examining The patient

A thorough examination of the patient is carried out before beginning the procedure

If the kapha dosha is prominent (neck stiffness), Greeva Basti is done in the morning; if pitta is dominant (burning sensations or inflammation), it is done in the midday; and if vaata is dominant (pain), it is done in the evening. Taking these things into account, Greeva Basti is typically done in the early hours of the day.

The Procedure

The requirements for the treatment are collected, which include Medicated oils, medicated ghee, water, black gram flour, sterile cloths, herbal powders, and a basin to hold the oil are required for the treatment.

Preparation: The black gram flour is well mixed with a sufficient quantity of warm water into a thick paste. It is then made into a flat slab-like structure having a length of about 45-60 cm, a thickness of 3 cm, and a height of 5 cm. The therapist prepares a medicated oil mixture using herbs and spices.

Positioning: Since the patient is made to lie on the back for a considerable amount of time, it is best to execute Greeva Vasti on an empty stomach.The patient lies on a special table. The prepared dough to the area in a circular shape, taking attentive care not to cause any leakage of oil. 

Oil application: The medicated oil is poured into the pool. We take paramount precautions in maintaining the temperature.

Retention: The oil is allowed to remain in the neck for a specific duration.

Absorption: After the prescribed time, the oil is gently absorbed using cotton.

Follow-up: The patient may be advised to rest for a while after the treatment.

Oils Used for Greeva basti

Ksheerabala tailam, Mahamasha tailam, Mahanarayana tailam, Kottamchukkadi tailam, Balashwagandhadi tailam, Ashwagandhabalalakshadi tailam, Sahacharadi tailam, Murivenna, Pinda tailam, Tiktaka ghritam, and Til tailam (sesame oil) are the oils used in Greeva Basti and the Abhyanga massage. 

Advantages of Greeva Basti 

• Alleviation of shoulder, upper limb, and neck pain and stiffness
  

• Pain and inflammation alleviation
  

• Enhanced movement of the neck
  

• Enhanced blood flow to the arms, shoulders, and neck
  

• Decreased incidence of headaches and lightheadedness

Indications

• The spondylosis of the neck 

• Whiplash 

• Strains and sprains 

• Headaches and tension 

• Aura-accompanied migraines 

• The tortticollis, or wry neck 

• Rheumatoid arthritis. 

• Spondylitis with ankylosing 

• Osteoporosis 

• Fibromyalgia 

• Stenosis of the spine 

• Herniated disc slippage

Who cannot Undergo Greeva Basti?

• Chronic Sinusitis

• Chronic fever

• Infectious diseases of Spine and brain

• Bleeding disoreders

• Heavy kapha indiciduals

• Conditions of Jwara and Aama

Important Considerations

The treatment though seems simple, involves the partcipation of the cervical bone, and adjoinig Blood vessels and nerves that are directly linked to the blood supply of the brain. Precautions and continous monitoring of the patient through out the procedure is manadatory. To know more on the treatment aspects consult our Ayurvedic physician Today.