Nasya (nasal therapy)
Nasya
Administration of medicated oils or powders through the nostrils to clear and nourish the head, sinuses, and senses. A gentle daily version (pratimarsha) can be done at home.
reduces Vataneutral for Pittareduces Kapha
What it involves
A few drops of medicated oil are instilled in each nostril, sometimes after facial steam and massage. Clinical nasya is stronger and practitioner-administered.
Traditionally used for
- sinus congestion
- headaches
- mental fog
- dryness of nasal passages
- neck and shoulder tension
Contraindications & cautions
- pregnancy
- acute cold with fever
- just after meals
- children without guidance
Questions to ask a practitioner
- Is clinical or daily home nasya right for me?
- Which oil do you recommend?
Evidence notes
Traditional therapy for head and sinus; formal evidence limited.
Classical sources
- Ashtanga Hridayam — Sutrasthana 20 — Nasya vidhi
- Charaka Samhita — Siddhisthana 9 — nasya context
Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.