AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS
Kati
Basti
Warm medicated oil held over the lower back inside a dough ring for thirty minutes. A classical Ayurvedic therapy for lower back pain, stiffness and sciatica-type discomfort. Bahadurgarh, near Delhi.
01WHAT IT IS
कटि बस्ति · Kati, the lower back, and basti, a container
Kati Basti is one of the most sought-after Ayurvedic therapies for the lower back. A ring of dough made from black gram flour is placed over the lumbar region and filled with warm medicated oil. The oil is kept at a steady, comfortable warmth for the full session, letting it penetrate the muscles, ligaments and, in Ayurvedic understanding, the deeper tissues around the spine.
The sustained warmth relaxes the paraspinal muscles and eases the Vata disturbance that Ayurveda associates with most back pain. It is frequently prescribed for lumbar spondylosis, disc-related discomfort, sciatica-type pain and stiffness from long hours of sitting, usually as a course of several sessions.
02HOW IT IS DONE AT AROGYA
- 01
The practitioner confirms the region, the oil and the number of sessions after examining your back.
- 02
You lie face down and the dough ring is shaped and sealed over the lower back.
- 03
Warm medicated oil is poured into the ring and kept at a constant temperature by replacing it as it cools.
- 04
The oil is retained for around thirty minutes while you rest.
- 05
The oil is drained, the area is gently massaged and, if advised, a short steam follows.
03BENEFITS
- Eases lower back pain and stiffness
- Relaxes tight paraspinal muscles
- Traditionally used in lumbar spondylosis, disc-related pain and sciatica
- Improves flexibility and comfort in bending and sitting
- Nourishes the joints and nerves of the lumbar region in Ayurvedic understanding
Often suited to
- Chronic or recurrent lower back pain
- Stiffness after long periods of sitting or driving
- Sciatica-type radiating discomfort, as assessed by the practitioner
- Guests recovering from strain once the acute phase has settled
Please tell us first
- Not given during acute inflammation, fever or skin infection over the back
- Please share any recent injury, fracture or surgery of the spine
- Mention diabetes or reduced sensation so the temperature is monitored closely
- Avoided in pregnancy
04WHAT TO EXPECT
The session is restful and warming. Relief is often felt after the first session and consolidates over a course of five to seven days. Avoid cold exposure, heavy lifting and long sitting on the day of treatment. Many guests combine Kati Basti with therapeutic yoga for lasting change.
This page is educational and describes the therapy as traditionally practised. It is not medical advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified practitioner. Suitability, preparation and duration are confirmed individually at Arogya Retreatt. Content reviewed September 2026.
05QUESTIONS
Common questions about Kati Basti.
How many Kati Basti sessions do I need?
A course of five to seven consecutive days is typical for chronic back pain. Some guests repeat a shorter course after a few months. The practitioner will advise after the first session.
Is Kati Basti safe with a slipped disc?
It is often used for disc-related discomfort once the acute phase has passed, but suitability depends on the individual case. Please bring any reports or scans to the consultation.
Can I combine it with other therapies?
Yes. Kati Basti is commonly paired with Abhyanga, Podikizhi, local steam and therapeutic yoga, and it forms part of our Panchkarma programs.