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Januvasthy - Divyamrut Ayurcare

Januvasthy Therapy

Januvasthy Therapy

Januvasthy is an Ayurvedic external therapy that involves the retention of warm medicated oil over the knee joint (Janu Sandhi) to relieve pain, stiffness, inflammation, and degenerative conditions affecting the knees.

The term Januvasthy comes from:
Janu (जानु) – Knee
Vasthy (वस्थि) – Retention or pooling

This therapy is particularly effective for osteoarthritis (Sandhigata Vata), rheumatoid arthritis (Ama Vata), ligament injuries, and knee joint degeneration. By allowing the warm medicated oil to deeply penetrate the knee joint, Januvasthy helps lubricate the joints, improve circulation, and strengthen the surrounding tissues.

Procedure

  • Purva Karma (Pre-Treatment Preparation)

    The patient is positioned lying down or seated comfortably with the knees exposed. A gentle Abhyangam (oil massage) is performed around the knee with Maha Narayana Taila or Dhanwantharam Taila to prepare the tissues. A leak-proof dough ring (Basti Kunda) is prepared using black gram flour, placed around the knee, and fixed securely to retain oil.

  • Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure)

    Warm medicated oil is carefully poured into the dough ring, submerging the knee joint. The oil is maintained at a therapeutic temperature (around 40°C) by continuously replacing it with warm oil. The oil is retained for 30–45 minutes, allowing deep penetration into muscles, ligaments, and joints. During the therapy, mild circular massage (Mardana) is performed for better absorption. This process is repeated for 7–14 days, depending on the condition.

  • Paschat Karma (Post-Treatment Care)

    The oil is slowly removed, and the area is cleaned with a warm herbal decoction. A mild herbal steam therapy (Nadi Swedana) is applied to enhance relaxation. The patient is advised to avoid cold exposure, sudden movements, and heavy physical work for a few hours. Dietary changes are suggested to balance Vata and Ama in the body.

Indications (When to Use Januvasthy)

  • Sandhigata Vata (Osteoarthritis of Knee Joint): Reduces stiffness and joint pain.
  • Ama Vata (Rheumatoid Arthritis & Swelling in Knees): Helps in detoxification and reducing inflammation.
  • Knee Ligament & Meniscus Injuries (Snayu Peedana): Accelerates healing.
  • Patella Chondromalacia (Knee Cartilage Softening): Strengthens and protects cartilage.
  • Genu Varum & Genu Valgum (Bow Legs & Knock Knees): Improves structural stability.
  • Knee Joint Effusion & Synovitis (Jalodara in Janu Sandhi): Drains excess fluid accumulation.
  • Post-Surgical Knee Rehabilitation: Strengthens muscles and enhances mobility.
  • Sports Injuries & Runner’s Knee: Promotes faster recovery and flexibility.

Contraindications (When to Avoid Januvasthy)

  • Acute Infections or Open Wounds on the Knee: May worsen the condition.
  • Fever or Severe Inflammation (Jwara Avastha): Avoid during high inflammation.
  • Fractures or Dislocations (Asthi Bhagna): Should not be done immediately after trauma.
  • Skin Allergies or Dermatitis in the Knee Region: May cause irritation.
  • Varicose Veins Over the Knees: Direct heat may aggravate the condition.

Outcomes and Benefits

  • Relieves Knee Pain & Stiffness (Shoola Nashaka & Stambha Hara): Provides deep relaxation.
  • Lubricates Knee Joints (Snehanam & Sandhi Poshana): Prevents wear and tear.
  • Strengthens Ligaments & Cartilage (Snayu & Asthi Poshaka): Supports knee stability.
  • Improves Blood Circulation (Raktha Samvahana Vardhaka): Enhances joint nourishment.
  • Prevents Degenerative Disorders (Vatahara Kriya): Reduces risk of osteoarthritis progression.
  • Enhances Knee Mobility & Flexibility (Gati Vardhaka Kriya): Promotes ease of movement.
Conclusion

Januvasthy is a highly effective Ayurvedic therapy for chronic knee pain, osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, and nerve-related disorders. By deeply nourishing and rejuvenating the knee joint, it helps prevent degenerative conditions, improves mobility, and enhances overall joint health.