External Therapy Protocol
Shiro Basti (Head Oil Pooling)
in Bengaluru
Shiro Basti is one of the most potent Murdhni Taila (head oiling) therapies. A leather cap is tightly fixed around the patient's head, and warm medicated oil is poured into it, allowing the brain and cranial nerves to deeply absorb the medicine over an extended period.
Clinical Benefits
- The most powerful external therapy for severe Vata disorders of the head and brain
- Highly effective for facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy), stroke rehabilitation, and trigeminal neuralgia
- Cures severe chronic migraines and tension headaches
- Stops severe hair fall, premature graying, and dry scalp conditions
Clinical Procedure
1. Preparation (Purvakarma)
- • The patient's head is shaved or hair is cut very short. A light massage is given to the head and neck.
- • A cylindrical leather cap is fixed firmly around the head just above the ears and sealed with black gram dough to prevent leaks.
2. Main Action (Pradhana Karma)
Warm medicated oil (like Ksheerabala 101 or Dhanwantaram) is poured into the cap until it covers the crown of the head. It is retained for a specific time (usually 30-50 minutes) depending on the dosha.
3. Post-Therapy (Paschatkarma)
- • The oil and cap are removed. A gentle massage is given to the shoulders and neck.
- • Patient must avoid cold wind, cold water, and heavy mental strain.
Patient FAQs
Is Shiro Basti better than Shirodhara?
They serve different purposes. Shirodhara (pouring) is kinetic and highly relaxing, great for stress and insomnia. Shiro Basti (pooling) is static and deeply penetrating, making it far more potent for physical nerve damage like paralysis or severe migraines.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Abhiram SSBAMS (Reg No: 36991)
Chief Consultant, Ayurvedic Rheumatology & Dermatology • Updated: 2026-07-24
Protocol Details
Duration
45 to 60 minutes.Frequency
7 to 14 days for chronic neurological conditions.Primary Indications
condition-bells-palsycondition-migrainecondition-paralysiscondition-insomnia
Contraindications
- Acute sinusitis, severe colds, or high Kapha congestion in the head
- Scalp infections with pus or oozing eczema
- Extreme obesity or severe lethargy