In Ayurveda, the navel (nabhi) is considered the center of life force energy and plays a crucial role in digestive health, emotional balance, and overall vitality. One of the most effective therapies to nourish and heal this vital area is Nabhi Basti (Chakra Basti)—a traditional Ayurvedic treatment that involves retaining warm medicated oil over the navel region.
Why is the Navel So Important
The navel (nabhi) is not just a physical structure—it is a powerful energy center that connects the body’s vital functions. In Ayurveda and yogic traditions, the navel region (Manipura Chakra or Solar Plexus Chakra) is associated with:
- Digestion & Gut Health – The navel is directly linked to the intestines, stomach, liver, and pancreas, influencing digestion, metabolism, and absorption of nutrients.
- Emotional Well-being – Stored emotional stress, anxiety, and trauma often manifest as digestive disorders, bloating, and gut imbalances.
- Energy & Vitality – The navel is considered the seat of Agni (digestive fire), responsible for energy production and detoxification.
When this area becomes blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to digestive problems, emotional instability, and low vitality. Nabhi Basti is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy designed to restore balance in this vital region.
What is Nabhi Basti (Chakra Basti)?
Nabhi Basti (also called Chakra Basti or Nabhi Poorana) is a deeply therapeutic Ayurvedic treatment in which warm herbal oil is poured into a small, circular reservoir made of dough, placed over the navel area. The oil is retained for 20–30 minutes, allowing deep absorption and healing.
How Nabhi Basti Works:
- The warm herbal oil penetrates deep into the abdominal tissues, nourishing the organs and relieving blockages.
- The therapy stimulates the Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra), enhancing emotional stability and self-confidence.
- It activates blood circulation and nerve function in the abdominal region, reducing pain, bloating, and stagnation.
Scientific Benefits of Nabhi Basti for Gut Health
- Improves Digestion & Relieves Bloating
Many digestive issues, such as constipation, bloating, acidity, and indigestion, stem from weakened Agni (digestive fire).
- Nabhi Basti stimulates the enteric nervous system (gut-brain connection), improving digestion and reducing bloating.
- The warmth of the oil helps relax the abdominal muscles, easing intestinal spasms.
- It supports better nutrient absorption by strengthening gut function.
warm oil therapy and abdominal massage improve gut motility and reduce irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
- Detoxifies & Balances Gut Microbiome
Toxins (Ama) accumulated in the gut lead to inflammation, sluggish digestion, and poor immunity. Nabhi Basti:
- Enhances blood circulation in the digestive organs, flushing out toxins.
- Regulates gut microbiota, supporting beneficial bacteria for better digestion and immunity.
- Supports liver detoxification, improving metabolism and overall gut health.
warm oil applications on the abdomen can stimulate lymphatic drainage, promoting detoxification.
- Restores Emotional Balance & Reduces Anxiety
The gut and brain are deeply connected via the gut-brain axis. Emotional stress often manifests as stomach pain, nausea, IBS, or gastritis. Nabhi Basti helps by:
- Activating the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Releasing stored emotional trauma in the abdominal region.
- Balancing serotonin levels (90% of serotonin, the “happiness hormone,” is produced in the gut).
Abdominal oil therapy reduces cortisol (stress hormone) and promotes relaxation, benefiting individuals with anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
- Relieves Menstrual Cramps & Hormonal Imbalances
Nabhi Basti is highly beneficial for women’s health, especially for those suffering from menstrual cramps, PCOS, and hormonal imbalances.
- The therapy relaxes the uterine and pelvic muscles, reducing menstrual discomfort.
- Balances reproductive hormones, improving menstrual cycles.
- Supports hormonal harmony, benefiting conditions like PCOS and endometriosis.
Abdominal oil application helps in balancing hormones and reducing period pain naturally.
- Strengthens Core Energy & Boosts Vitality
In Ayurveda, the navel is the energy center of the body. When weakened, it leads to low energy, sluggish metabolism, and fatigue. Nabhi Basti:
- Strengthens the core energy (Prana Shakti), increasing vitality and endurance.
- Supports metabolic function, enhancing energy levels.
- Revitalizes the Solar Plexus Chakra, boosting confidence and inner strength.
Stimulating the navel region enhances Prana (life force energy), which plays a key role in vitality and mental clarity.
Who Can Benefit from Nabhi Basti?
- Individuals with digestive issues like bloating, IBS, acidity, and constipation
- Those struggling with stress, anxiety, or emotional trauma
- Women with irregular periods, menstrual pain, or PCOS
- People experiencing low energy, poor metabolism, or chronic fatigue
- Anyone seeking gut detoxification, inner balance, and holistic healing
A Powerful Healing Therapy for Gut & Mind
Nabhi Basti is not just a therapy—it is a deep healing experience that restores gut health, emotional well-being, and core vitality. If you are struggling with digestive issues, emotional imbalances, or low energy, Nabhi Basti at Green Ayurveda offers a transformative Ayurvedic solution.
Experience the power of gut healing, emotional balance, and total well-being with authentic Ayurvedic care!