Danda Dhauti

Danda Dhauti (दण्ड धौति) is a yogic cleansing technique in which a thin, smooth banana stalk or similar flexible tube is inserted through the mouth into the stomach to rinse it. It is one of the more advanced dhauti practices and is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika.

Overview

Danda Dhauti is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (2.29-2.30) and the Gheranda Samhita as a method for deep cleansing of the stomach and upper digestive tract. The “danda” (stick or staff) refers to the banana stalk or similar tube that is used. The practice involves swallowing the tube, allowing water to flow into the stomach, and then withdrawing the tube along with the impurities. It is considered less dangerous than vastra dhauti but still requires care and proper instruction.

Method

The practitioner takes a thin, smooth, flexible tube (traditionally a banana stalk approximately 12-18 inches long and pencil-thick). The tube is moistened with warm water and slowly swallowed until 2-3 inches remain outside the mouth. The practitioner then drinks several glasses of warm water, which flows through the tube into the stomach. After a brief period, the tube is slowly withdrawn, bringing with it the impurities from the stomach. The practice is performed on an empty stomach.

Benefits and Purpose

Traditional texts claim Danda Dhauti:

• Deeply cleanses the stomach
• Removes accumulated toxins and undigested food
• Balances the doshas
• Is less dangerous than vastra dhauti
• Prepares the body for pranayama practice/pranayama) practice

Verification Notes

• Described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (2.29-2.30).
• Referenced in the Gheranda Samhita.
• The practice should be performed with care and proper instruction.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).