Nasya Oil Practice

Nasya is one of the 5 Panchakarma (Ayurvedic detoxification therapies) techniques. The Nasya oil practice involves applying medicinal herbs, decoctions, medicated oils, or ghee to the nose.

The nose is the gateway into the head, the sinuses, and deeper into the lungs. Its lubrication provides subtle moisture to the air we breathe, enhances mental and sensory insight and clarity, promotes emotional well-being, clears the nose and sinuses of obstruction, encourages the flow of lymphatic fluid, bestows a clear voice, soothes dryness in the nose, and alleviates the symptoms of certain diseases.

Nasya enhances cerebral circulation, restoring and balancing the prana, the “life force” in the body. Continuous use improves skin texture and complexion, slows or delays graying hair and alopecia, enhances the flow of prana, and strengthens the neck, shoulders, and arms.

Nasya is indicated for all chronic disorders of the head and neck, disorders of the brain and central nervous system, chronic upper respiratory disorders, chronic headaches and migraines, as well as disorders of the eyes, ears, mouth, throat, and the glandular structures of the head.

Here is a simple procedure to follow for self-administration of nasya oil:

1. Tilt your head back so your nostrils are towards the sky.

2. Place 3-6 drops of oil or ghee into each nostril.

3. Take a big sniff in and allow the oil to penetrate.

4. If following using the neti pot, wait until the nostrils are dry.