Greeva Vasti is an ayurvedic therapy that focuses on neck pain and stiffness. It is a localized treatment where warm medicated oil is retained in a dough ring placed on the neck to relieve cervical pain, stiffness, and spondylosis.
Greeva Vasti is an ayurvedic therapy that focuses on neck pain and stiffness. It is a localized treatment where warm medicated oil is retained in a dough ring placed on the neck to relieve cervical pain, stiffness, and spondylosis.
Greeva Vasti focuses on the neck and upper spine. This therapy involves the application of warm, medicated oil to the affected area, held within a boundary created by a dough ring around the neck. The warm oil is retained in this area for a specific period, allowing the body to absorb the healing properties of the oil. The warmth of the oil helps relax the muscles, relieve stiffness, and improve circulation to the neck and spine. It is particularly effective in alleviating tension, pain, and stiffness in the neck area.
Greeva Vasti is a gentle, non-invasive, and effective localized treatment performed by a trained therapist. The procedure typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes.
Preparation: The patient lies face down on a Droni (Ayurvedic massage table), with the forehead slightly supported to keep the neck relaxed. The painful area of the neck (cervical region) is identified. A circular or rectangular dam is constructed over the neck using thick, warm dough made from black gram flour or whole wheat flour. The ring is carefully sealed to the skin to ensure the oil does not leak.
Main Procedure: The reservoir is slowly filled with lukewarm medicated oil (e.g., Ksheerabala Taila, Mahanarayana Taila, or Balaswagandhadi Taila). The oil temperature is meticulously checked and maintained to ensure consistent therapeutic warmth. The oil is kept on the neck for a specific duration (typically 20-30 minutes). As the oil cools down, the therapist carefully removes the top layer of oil with cotton and replaces it with fresh, warm oil, ensuring continuous heat and absorption of the medicinal properties.
Post-Therapy Care: After the prescribed time, the oil is removed, and the dough ring is gently peeled off. A gentle, localized neck and upper back massage is often given to help the remaining oil penetrate deeper and relax the muscles further. The patient is advised to rest, keep the neck warm (avoid drafts), and refrain from sudden neck movements immediately after the treatment.
Greeva Vasti is a singular, localized therapeutic technique. However, as with other Vasti therapies, the treatment is customized based on the nature of the medicated substance used within the dam:
Taila Vasti (Oil-based): This is the most common form, utilizing different warm medicated herbal oils. It is the mainstay for Vata-dominant conditions, chronic pain, and degeneration (like cervical spondylosis).
Ghruta Vasti (Ghee-based): Medicated ghee is sometimes used in the reservoir. This is preferred for conditions with a strong Pitta component (burning pain, inflammation) or to provide intensive nourishment to deep, dry tissues.
Decoction Vasti: In specific cases of severe inflammation or swelling (Kapha/Ama dominance), a lukewarm herbal decoction may be used, although oil Vasti is the standard for long-term Vata pacification.
Generally lasts for 30 to 45 minutes. The therapy is usually recommended for 5 to 7 consecutive days for optimal results, depending on the severity of the condition.
Greeva Vasti is highly valued for its non-surgical effectiveness in treating conditions that compromise neck function and cause persistent pain.
Key Conditions Treated:
After the Greeva Vasti therapy, it is important to:
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