Nasya Therapy � Ayurvedic Nasal Treatment
Nasya Therapy � Ayurvedic Nasal Treatment

Nasya Therapy

Ayurvedic Nasal Treatment for Head, Neck & Sense Organs

What is Nasya?

In Ayurveda, the nose is considered the gateway to the head and brain. Nasya is a therapeutic procedure in which medicinal substances are administered through the nostrils to eliminate Doshas accumulated in the head, neck, and face.

Depending on the medicine used, Nasya can be either nourishing (strengthening, tonifying) or purifying (cleansing and detoxifying).

Procedure

The Nasya procedure is carried out in a systematic and gentle way:

  • The face, head, and neck are first massaged with oil (Abhyanga).
  • Local Swedana (fomentation) is given to open the channels.
  • The medicine (oil, ghee, herbal decoction, powder, or medicated smoke) is warmed to a lukewarm temperature.
  • With the patient lying down, head slightly tilted back, the medicine is instilled drop by drop into each nostril.
  • Gentle massage is given on the nose, cheeks, and forehead to encourage absorption.
  • The patient then spits out the discharge instead of swallowing, as it contains morbid Doshas and toxins.
Nasya should always be performed or supervised by a qualified Ayurvedic physician, especially when using strong medicated oils or decoctions.

Indications

Nasya is beneficial in a wide range of conditions involving the head, neck, and senses, particularly where Vata and Kapha are aggravated.

  • Headache and migraine
  • Neck stiffness and cervical spondylosis
  • Hoarseness of voice and throat discomfort
  • Eye and ear disorders related to congestion or dryness
  • Tonsillitis, sinusitis, chronic rhinitis, nasal blockage
  • Facial paralysis and TMJ (jaw joint) disorders

Contraindications

Nasya should not be performed in the following situations:

  • Immediately after meals or alcohol consumption
  • During indigestion or fever
  • In states of extreme fatigue or exhaustion
  • During pregnancy or immediately postpartum
  • Immediately after coitus or intense exercise
  • Right after other Panchakarma procedures like Vamana or Virechana

Types of Nasya

  • Classical Nasya:
    An intensive, therapeutic form of Nasya performed under a physician's supervision, using specific medicated oils or decoctions tailored to the disease.
  • Pratimarsha Nasya:
    A mild, daily preventive practice in which about 2 drops of oil or ghee are instilled into each nostril. It is considered safe for all ages and all seasons when done correctly.

Benefits of Nasya

Regular and properly administered Nasya can offer a broad spectrum of benefits for both prevention and treatment:

  • Strengthens the head, neck, and sensory organs
  • Enhances cognitive function, clarity, and memory
  • Improves immunity against respiratory and allergic conditions
  • Relieves stress, mental tension, and emotional heaviness
  • Improves voice, vision, and overall facial vitality and glow
Pratimarsha Nasya, when integrated into daily routine (Dinacharya), helps maintain balance of Doshas in the head region and supports long-term neurological and respiratory health.