It is an ancient Ayurvedic nasal treatment combining a head, neck, and shoulder massage with organic aromatherapy products, leaving few drops of warmed herbal oil to the nasal cavity. Nasya treatment has several benefits.
Table of Contents
What is the use of Nasya?
The ghee is passed through the nostrils, which helps in preventing inhalation of those unwanted particles that enter through the nasal passage along with the polluted air. Nasya also helps in increasing our immune power and also prevents other diseases like chronic headache, hair fall, coryza, premature graying of hairs, eye diseases, etc.
How is the application followed?
It starts with cleansing the nasal passage with Neti Pot.
Inhale steam for about 10-15 minutes by cautiously pouring boiling water in a large pot, drape a towel around your head if needed and close your eyes and lower your face until you are approximately one foot away from the hot water.
Inhale slowly and deeply. Be very cautious; you are not making direct contact with the water. If you prefer another method, use a facial steamer, which seems easier. You can also add eucalyptus oil or camphor oil to the steamer. Inhaling the steam will help to clear your nasal passages and loosen the mucus.
Choose organic Almond /sesame / Olive oil. Studies showed that sesame oil is best for Nasya as it is grounding, warm and calming. It is also highly nourishing and moisturizing. It can bring deep relief to irritated or dry, or congested nasal passages.
Place a drop of the oil on your clean pinky finger or a clear ink filler and apply it gently inside your nostril. Then softly inhale so that the oil goes inside the nasal membranes. Repeat on another side as well. In case you are using a dropper, you have to sit down in a reclining chair and tilt your head backward or lie down in a comfortable position.
Hold your breath, keep the dropper away for about half an inch above your nose, and add 2-3 drops to each nasal passage and inhale gently. Stay in the position for 10-12 minutes and inhale well before you get up.
You can also gently tap on your nose for the oil to move inside your nostrils.
It is mostly recommended during spring when air is filled with pollen and dust or cold weather.
It is not recommended to take Nasya after a meal, during pregnancy, immediately after a bath, or to those who have undergone nasal surgery. It is not advised for people above 80 years or children below seven years.
It is better to consult a doctor if you have a serious mental condition before the treatment.
Nasya treatment in Ayurveda
Nasya treatment involves a herbal blend called ‘Anu Thailam,’ which is a potent combination of twenty-four herbs that are boiled for about seventy-two hours to create a smooth emulsion. Anu Thailam helps the nasal cavity to eject the toxin-filled mucus by moving into the area and killing the harmful bacteria.
This step is followed by the application of another herbal oil called ‘Ksheerabala 101 avarthi,’ which nourishes and heals and completes the cleansing process. It is believed that the cleansing of the nasal passages helps in healing the brain and the nervous system while bringing back the balance and the free flow of ‘prana,’ which is the life energy, into our body. It is because of the positive health benefits of Nasya treatment which is included as an essential part of Ayurvedic detox or ‘Panchakarma.’
This treatment of Nasya helps promote the elimination of toxins out of the body while enhancing healing. Other benefits include:
- Improvement in mental clarity
- Clear ears and sinuses
- Better sleep cycle
- Reduces mucus production
What are the side effects of Nasya treatment?
On the positive side, studies show that there are no known side effects of this therapy. It is safe and very effective. However, when the oil reaches down your throat, you may feel a little irritation or a burning sensation in the throat and all over your face. These are common symptoms, and they go away after a while without any serious side effects or complications.
What are the post-treatment guidelines?
After Nasya therapy, there are many things to keep in mind:
- Do not blow your nose immediately after Nasya treatment
- Do not rinse your hair immediately after the treatment
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery from the treatment does not take much time as it is an Ayurvedic therapy. You can return to your usual activities once the session is over.