The central portion of the body is called 'Kati'. Vasti implies a container. Kativasti is an effective therapy for lower backache or stiffness or pain felt along the back.
A small receptacle of black gram dough is made on the lower back, around the lumbo-scral area. After ensuring that this is leak-proof, lukewarm herbal oil, which alleviates pain and strengthens the bone tissues, is slowly poured into it. The oil and receptacle are removed after about half an hour. The affected area may be gently massaged with same oil. The patient is then advised to take rest for a short while.
For the severe condition of gridrasi (sciatica) and osteo-arthritis of the hip, a disease condition characterized by severe pain radiating down the leg, a combination of shamana (palliative) and shodhana (eliminatory) measures is necessary if a relapse is to be avoided
