Background: Amavata, characterized in Ayurveda by the interaction of Ama and vitiated Vata, closely parallels rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Basti, especially Niruha and Anuvsana Basti, is considered a principal intervention in its management.Objective: To review and synthesize classical Ayurvedic concepts and contemporary clinical evidence on the role of commonly used Basti in the management of Amavata/RA.Materials and methods: A narrative review was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, DHARA, AYUSH Research Portal, and Scopus, along with manual screening of classical Ayurvedic texts.Clinical studies evaluating Basti interventions in Amavata or RA were included.Results: Basti regimens, particularly Vaitarana Basti, Kshara Basti with Brihat Saindhavadi Taila Anuvasana, demonstrated significant improvement in pain, joint swelling, morning stiffness, CRP, ESR, RA factor and functional outcomes.These effects are attributed to Vata-Ama correction and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.Conclusion: Basti shows consistent clinical benefits in Amavata/RA and remains central to Ayurvedic management.Future studies should emphasize standardized protocols, robust trial designs, and long-term outcome assessment.
Roshanara et al. (Fri,) studied this question.