Netra Basti: Ayurvedic Eye Therapy or Dangerous Practice? Experts Warn of Risks

Netra Basti sounds peaceful, warm oil, closed eyes, ancient healing. But behind the calm lies a rising concern. A recent case left a patient with eye damage after a Netra Basti session at an unverified clinic.

What started as a wellness ritual turned into a medical emergency. As more people seek alternative therapies, this age-old practice now faces urgent questions about safety and the science behind Netra Basti.

What Experts Say: Potential Risks of Netra Basti

Netra Basti originates from ancient Ayurvedic texts of southern India, tracing back to classical healer scholarship. Skilled practitioners in Kerala first described the Netra Basti eye ritual over two thousand years ago. In this therapy, warm herbal oil or ghee pools around the eye socket inside a dammed border. Dr Jaison Philip, an M.S., MCh ophthalmologist, recently warned followers on X about this unsafe treatment.

This 'Netra Basti' treatment given by some Ayurvedic Practitioners, can lead to corneal injury, devastating infection or serious allergies- loss of vision due to contact with warmed Ghee or Oil. Don't trust this harmful practice. It does not cure cataract, dryness, Myopia or any… pic.twitter.com/DA1RswNYI2

— Dr Jaison Philip. M.S., MCh (@Jasonphilip8) July 29, 2025

He said that some Ayurvedic practitioners offer this Netra Basti without proper hygiene or training. The expert cautioned that heated ghee or oil can cause corneal injury, severe infection, or serious allergic reactions. He added that patients risk losing vision when contaminated oils contact the eye surface directly. 

The doctor emphasized that Netra Basti does not cure cataract, dryness, myopia, or any other eye disorders. He urged anyone experiencing vision changes or persistent eye problems to consult a qualified ophthalmologist promptly. His social media post reached thousands of followers immediately, sparking urgent discussions online about safety measures.

Understanding Netra Basti: The Ayurvedic Eye Treatment

In Netra Basti, practitioners prepare a soft dough ring around the eye with warm herbal paste. They fill the ring with heated ghee or oil to bathe the eye surface for ten minutes. The patient lies still while the oil pools over the cornea during a single-session procedure. Ayurveda texts claim this therapy nourishes tissues and balances doshas related directly to healthy vision. 

Some believe it detoxifies the eye and reduces strain from prolonged screen exposure without proven evidence. Practitioners recommend sessions but never mention potential adverse side effects or standardized safety protocols to protect patient vision. Verify practitioner credentials and clinic hygiene before considering any Netra Basti treatment near your eyes.

Don’t Trust Blindly—Research Before Trying Traditional Therapies

You should not trust any therapy without checking credible sources about health and safety claims. Always review scientific studies, guidelines, and expert opinions before trying any new medically approved eye treatments. Talk with ophthalmologists to understand your specific eye issues and receive personalized, approved therapy recommendations. 

Traditional claims may sound appealing, but they lack controlled trials and peer‑reviewed data validating safety. Unregulated Netra Basti sessions could expose you to infection, chemical burns, or serious allergic reactions. Use reliable medical websites, academic journals, or government health portals when researching eye therapies online. 

Ask about practitioner training, sanitation standards, and emergency protocols before agreeing to any potential treatment. Protect your vision by confirming facts rather than just blindly accepting promises at face value. Your sight deserves informed choices over unverified remedies to maintain lifelong eye health and protection.

While Netra Basti claims ancient healing, experts warn of serious eye risks. Always seek advice, examine evidence, and prioritize qualified ophthalmologists for safe vision care over unverified alternative procedures and education.