Nasya: What & why

Daily routines are extremely important and are the backbone of an Ayurvedic lifestyle.  It's hard to  keep up with all routines perfectly all day every day (it would be a full time job!) but if there's one routine I try NOT to miss - it's Nasya oil.  Here - find out what Nasya oil is and why we use it. 

Nasya oil is a type of herbal oil used in Ayurvedic medicine used in the nose.  In Ayurveda, "Nasya" refers to the practice of applying medicinal oils, powders, or liquids through the nostrils. This technique is believed to help cleanse the sinuses, clear blockages, and balance the body's doshas (or constitutions). Nasya is the number one thing to treat or prevent conditions above the clavicle (or neck) - so not just nasal issues. 

Composition of Nasya Oil:

Nasya oil is typically made from a combination of herbs and essential oils. Common ingredients include:

• Sesame oil or coconut oil as a base.  Ghee alone or infused with herbs can also be used and plain ghee is especially good for children. 
• Herbs like bhringraj, vacha, brahmi, eucalyptus, and lavender, which are known for their therapeutic properties.
• Spices and other botanicals may also be included, depending on the specific formulation.

Benefits of Nasya Oil:

1. Supports Respiratory Health:

   • Clears nasal passages: Nasya oil can help clear congestion and open up the nasal airways. It is often used for conditions like sinusitis, allergies, and cold symptoms. 
   • Moisturizes the nasal passages: It can prevent dryness and irritation in the nasal passages, especially in dry climates or during winter.

2. Promotes Mental Clarity:

   • Nasya oil is believed to enhance mental clarity and focus. Some herbs in the oil, like brahmi and vacha, are considered nootropic agents, promoting cognitive function and memory.

3. Balances the Doshas:

   • According to Ayurveda, nasya oil helps balance the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, particularly addressing Vata imbalances which are often associated with dryness and mental fog.

4. Helps with Headaches and Migraines:

   • Nasya oil can be used to alleviate headaches or migraines. The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of the oils used help to relieve pain, especially those associated with sinus pressure.

5. Improves Eye Health and Vision:

   • Regular use of nasya oil is believed to improve vision and eye health. Some formulations can soothe the eye area and may help with conditions like dry eyes.

6. Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

   • Certain nasya oils contain calming herbs, which may help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being.

7. Cleanses the Sinuses:

   • Nasya oil can clear out toxins and mucus from the sinuses, which can help with chronic sinus issues and improve breathing. However, if you actively HAVE sinusitis, you want to hold off on using nasya. It is wonderful for prevention though. 

How to Use Nasya Oil:

Note: Nasya oil can be done either in the morning or at bedtime, depending on why you are using it.  However, I would recommend doing this on an empty stomach before you eat as this practice is considered detoxifying as well. 

• Step 1: Lie down on your back or sit in a comfortable position with your head tipped back.
• Step 2: Gently warm the oil (if preferred) to a comfortable temperature.
• Step 3: Apply a few drops (3-5) of the oil into each nostril. Alternatively, if you are sitting, you can gently rub the drops of oil with a clean finger.  For children, I use a q-tip to gently administer ghee to the inside of the nostrils. 
• Step 4: Inhale deeply through the nose, allowing the oil to enter the nasal passages.
• Step 5: Relax and allow the oil to take effect.

Precautions:

• Nasya oil should be used cautiously, especially for those with nasal conditions or sensitivity to certain herbs. As mentioned above, if you have sinusitis, hold off on using nasya. 
• It's best to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure the right formulation is used for your specific needs.

Overall, Nasya oil can be a valuable part of an Ayurvedic wellness regimen, particularly for promoting respiratory health, mental clarity, and balancing your overall constitution and can be done daily or more intensely (more drops) as part of a seasonal detoxification regimen.

(The above photo is not of nasya oil but the same type of bottle it would come in)