What Is Kunjal Kriya? (Scientific + Spiritual Meaning)
Kunjal Kriya, also known as Vaman Dhauti, is a traditional Hatha Yoga cleansing technique used to purify the upper digestive tract—from the mouth to the stomach.
It involves drinking lukewarm salt water and voluntarily expelling it through the mouth.
This process is part of the Shatkarma, the six yogic purification methods described in classical yoga texts.
Spiritually → It purifies Anahata and Manipura regions
Scientifically → It cleanses the esophagus, stomach lining, and aids the parasympathetic nervous system.
Why Is Kunjal Kriya Important? (The Real Reason)
A surprising amount of undigested food particles, stomach acids, mucus, and toxins remain stuck in the stomach lining.
Over time, this can contribute to:
acidity
indigestion
gas
heaviness
low immunity
sluggish digestion
Kunjal Kriya helps remove this build-up effectively and naturally.
Scientific angle:
Salted lukewarm water creates a temporary, safe emetic response, flushing out:
excess mucus
acidic residue
bile
stagnant food particles
microbial accumulation
This reduces irritation in the upper GI tract.
Spiritual angle:
The practice is said to purify energy centers around the chest and abdomen, supporting:
emotional release
inner lightness
improved breathing
clarity
calmness
How To Do Kunjal Kriya (Step-by-Step Guide)
This process should always be performed on an empty stomach, ideally early morning
You need:
1 to 1.5 liters lukewarm water
1–2 teaspoons of salt per liter
A clean space (preferably outdoors or near washroom)
STEP 1: Make the Salt-Water Solution
Heat water until it becomes lukewarm.
Add 1–2 teaspoons of salt per liter.
Mix well.
Salt helps neutralize acid and prevents nausea after the practice.
STEP 2: Drink the Water Quickly
Stand straight.
Drink the water rapidly—glass after glass.
Continue until your stomach feels full and can’t take more.
The speed is important: slow drinking makes the body try to digest the water instead of cleansing.
STEP 3: Lean Forward & Trigger the Vomiting Reflex
Bend slightly forward (torso horizontal).
Open your mouth wide.
Insert two clean fingers (index + middle).
Gently rub the back of your tongue.
Water will start coming out naturally.
Repeat until most of the water is expelled.
STEP 4: Final Cleansing
Continue until only clear water comes out.
Perform Jala Neti afterwards if possible (recommended but optional).
Rest for 10–15 minutes.
Precautions (Very Important for Google & Safety)
Avoid Kunjal Kriya if you have:
❌ high blood pressure
❌ heart disease
❌ stomach ulcer
❌ hernia
❌ gastritis
❌ pregnancy
❌ severe acid reflux
Other precautions:
Always practice under guidance if you’re a beginner.
Fingernails must be clean and trimmed.
Avoid food for at least 30–45 minutes after practice.
Do not practice daily unless advised by a yoga therapist.
Kunjal Kriya Benefits (Spiritual + Scientific)
1. Deep Cleansing of the Digestive System
The main benefit is the complete flushing of:
stale food particles
excess acid
mucus
undigested residues
irritants in the stomach
This makes digestion smoother and improves gut health.
2. Relief from Acidity & Indigestion
Salt water neutralizes excessive stomach acid.
Removes toxins responsible for:
burning
gas
heaviness
nausea
3. Reduces Cough & Excess Mucus
The technique removes thick mucus from:
throat
esophagus
upper stomach
Very helpful for congestion caused by allergies or infection.
4. Improves Breathing & Reduces Chest Heaviness
Expelling water creates powerful contraction in the diaphragm & thorax.
This:
opens chest
increases lung capacity
improves respiratory clarity
Helpful for mild asthma (not a replacement for treatment).
5. Balances the Nervous System
The practice activates the vagus nerve, which shifts the body into:
calmness
relaxation
emotional stability
reduced stress
6. Enhances Mental Clarity & Calmness
Kunjal Kriya is known in yogic science to reduce:
anxiety
irritability
emotional overload
A clear stomach = a calmer mind.
7. Supports Immunity
Because 70% of immunity begins in the gut, improving digestion boosts overall:
energy
strength
resistance to infections
8. Tones Abdominal Muscles
The natural contractions during the process help strengthen the core and abdominal muscles.
9. Reduces Bad Breath & Improves Oral Freshness
Flushing acidic residues and mucus significantly improves oral hygiene.
10. Helps Remove Bile Acidity
Greenish water indicates excess bile.
Kunjal Kriya reduces bile-related acidity, giving instant relief.
How Often Should You Practice Kunjal Kriya?
General health → once per week
Digestive discomfort → once every 10–15 days
Chronic acidity → under expert supervision only
Not for daily practice
FAQs
1. Is Kunjal Kriya safe for beginners?
Yes, when done correctly and on an empty stomach. Beginners should learn under a teacher.
2. Does Kunjal Kriya cause damage to the stomach?
No. When done correctly, it is a controlled cleansing technique.
Avoid it if you have ulcers or hernia.
3. Is Kunjal Kriya good for acidity?
Yes — it removes acidic residue from the stomach lining.
4. Can women do Kunjal Kriya?
Yes, except during pregnancy or severe menstrual discomfort.
5. Can we drink normal water instead of salt water?
No. Salt water prevents nausea and helps remove acid.
Conclusion
Kunjal Kriya is a powerful yogic cleansing method that detoxifies the digestive system, balances energy, and improves overall well-being.
With its scientific and spiritual benefits, it remains one of the most effective Shatkarma practices for improving digestion, breath, immunity, and mental clarity.
Practiced with care and awareness, it brings lightness, purity, and deep internal cleansing.
