Importance, techniques, benefits, safety and adverse effect associated with Shatkarma mentioned in traditional Hatha Yoga texts (HYP & GS) along with comparison: A Review on Shatkarma

Abstract

Shatkarma has contained six cleansing techniques mentioned in Hathayoga texts. These are the most effective techniques to cure and prevent disease. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika (HYP) and Gherand Samhita (GS) (written between the 15th and 17th centuries) are the two most prominent and relevant foundational literature on Shatkarma, and are still relevant now. Previously published literature on Hatha Yoga covers book review, overview and comparative study on Hathayoga texts, comparative study on Asanas, concept of Kundalini and concept of Ghata and Ghata Sudhhi. The purpose of this review was to systematically review: (1) the importance of Shatkarma practises; (2) the types of Shatkarma practises; (3) techniques of Shatkarma; (4) the benefits of Shatkarma practises; (5) the safety and adverse effects associated with Shatkarma practises mentioned in HYP and GS; and (6) a comparison of Shatkarma between HYP and GS. The verses on Shatkarma are systematically reviewed, collected, and presented under the six specified aspects in this review.