Nasya is the nasal administration of medicated oils, juices or powders – one of the five main Panchakarma procedures. The nose is considered the gateway to the head, so Nasya is the principal treatment for conditions above the collarbone (urdhwajatru) – the head, neck, sinuses, and the sensory and neurological structures of that region.
At ACTYMED it is used for cervical spondylosis, sinus and headache complaints, hair and scalp concerns, and selected neurological problems, always after individual assessment. The type and strength of Nasya are matched carefully to the person and the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is it performed?
Preparation (purva karma): a gentle face, head and neck massage (abhyanga) and mild fomentation are given to open the channels. Main procedure (pradhana karma): warm medicated drops or powder are administered into each nostril while the head is positioned back, and the person breathes it in. Aftercare (paschat karma): gargling, mild inhalation of medicated smoke where appropriate, warm water and a period of rest complete the procedure.
Which conditions is it used for?
Cervical spondylosis, migraine and tension headache, sinusitis and allergic rhinitis, hair fall and premature greying, facial palsy, insomnia, and certain neurological and ENT complaints above the collarbone.
What are the types?
By action – shodhana or cleansing Nasya, brimhana or nourishing (snehana) Nasya, and shamana or palliative Nasya; by form – navana (drops), avapeeda (juice), dhmapana or pradhamana (powder), and pratimarsha (a small daily maintenance dose).
Who should avoid it?
Immediately after meals or a bath, during an acute cold or coryza, in acute fever, in pregnancy without care, and strong Nasya is avoided in very young children and frail elderly. Suitability is assessed first.
How often is it done?
A cleansing Nasya is usually a short course of days; pratimarsha Nasya can be a gentle daily practice when advised.
