by Dr. Prasanna Venkatesh

Nasya means medication through nostrils; is very useful for the diseases of the parts above the shoulders.

Ayurveda says

नासा हि शिरसो द्वारम् ॥

नासा (Naasaa – means nostrils; and it) is the entrance for the brain.

Procedure

Medicated oils / medicated or plain ghee / some specific powders (चूर्ण) / fresh juice of specific herbs etc will be put in to the nostrils.

Dosage, timings etc details will be decided accordingly.

Types of Nasya

Basically there are 2 types of Nasya.

1. Marsha Nasya – which is of high dosage & will be used in case of high level Dosha imbalance. Should be done only under medical supervision.

2. Pratimarsha Nasya – It is of less dosage & can be used by any person and every-day.

Generally it is advised to use this kind of Nasya daily, after ANJANA, early in the morning. But apart from this, there are more than 10 timings for the effective administration of this Nasya. (after food, after bath etc)

What is the best one for daily usage ?

Generally Anu taila is the one which is advisable for daily usage.

Method of administration :

Person should made lie on a cot, in a place devoid of breeze, made to lie straight with his face upwards. Then the medicine should be put on both the nostrils (in a proper dose) alternatively, keeping the other one closed. Later slow, deep inhalation is suggested. If sphutum (कफ) etc comes into throat / mouth, it should be spit out.

Benefits of Nasya :

Persons who does Nasya (nasal drops) daily will have good skin complexion, their shoulders, neck, face and chest strong / firm, prominent & good looking, their mouth will have pleasant smell, pleasant voice, sense organs clean & efficient, they become devoid of wrinkles, grey hairs & black patches.

Author is Chief Physician, Sriranga Ayurveda Chikitsa Mandira, Prakruthi Ayurveda Pratistana ®, Mysore