1. Introduction
Nasya is a traditional Ayurvedic method in which a medicated oil is introduced into the nasal passages via the nostrils. It is one of the five Panchakarma therapies, and its purpose is to clear, nourish, and protect the nasal passages, or nares, which are the entrance to prana (life force) in the body.
A free-flowing nasal passage is important for breathing comfortably, for our mental alertness and clarity, for the health of the sinuses, and for overall health and vitality. With a bit of preparation and the recommended technique, Nasya is easily practiced at home.
This beginner's guide is appropriate for:
- Anyone new to the Nasya experience
- People who may be experiencing some sinus congestion, allergy or dryness concerns
- Individuals interested in practicing Ayurvedic self-care at home
2. What Exactly Are Nasya Drops?
Nasya drops are medicated Ayurvedic oils made specifically for the nose. These oils help lubricate the nasal membranes, clear out toxins to cosset your sinuses, and promote respiratory and mental health.
Typical/common varieties include:
- Anu Tailam – classical oil for regular Nasya, balancing Vata/Pitta
- Shadbindu Tailam—stronger and used more for sinus issues
- Ghee-based Nasya oils—soothing and mild, appropriate for beginners
Nasya is usually recommended for:
- Sinusitis
- Allergies
- Headaches
- Excess mucus
- Dry nasal passages
- Mental fog or stress
3. Advantages of Utilising Nasya Drops
Daily use of Nasya is described in classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridayam as a cleansing and strengthening process for the head area.
Some of the major benefits of nasya drops are:
- Eases sinus congestion by moving mucus out of the nasal mucosa
- Decreases nasal dryness & allergies
- Assists with headaches and migraines
- Improves your ability to breathe & sleep
- Increases mental clarity & focus
In modern terms, Nasya may increase moisture in the nasal passage, support sinus drainage, and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps you to relax.
4. Getting Set Up: Things to Know
The Best time for Nasya
Morning (after you have digested) or early evening. Do not do Nasya immediately following eating or close to a meal.
Food considerations
- Do not eat or drink anything cold before Nasya.
- Keep the stomach light - Wait at least 1 hour after eating to perform Nasya.
Conditions for your room space
Make sure your room is warm, calm, and without a draft (don't sit directly in front of an air conditioning unit).
You will need
- Nasya oil
- Bowl of warm water
- Small towel
- Optional: steamer
Who should NOT do Nasya?
Do NOT do Nasya if you have:
- A cold, fever, or sore throat
- An active sinus infection
- Menstruation (for strong Marsha Nasya)
- Drank alcohol recently
- Very high blood pressure (needs consult)
5. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Nasya Drops at Home
Step 1—Warm the Oil (if Desired)
- Place the bottle in a bowl of warm water for 1–2 minutes, if desired.
- Why? Warmer oil absorbs better and travels further into the nasal channels.
Step 2—Prepare the Body
- Gently massage the forehead, cheeks, and sinuses with warm oil.
- (Optional) You may also take a mild steam inhalation to open the nasal cavity.
Step 3—Get in Position
- Lie down on your back, but tilt your head slightly backward.
- Place a rolled towel under the neck, which will help open the nasal cavity.
Step 4—Place the Drops
- Gently place 2 drops per nostril for daily Pratimarsha Nasya.
- In addition to therapeutic Marsha Nasya, you can place 4–10 drops (please usually do so with the guidance of a professional).
- Slowly place the drops, but do not touch your nose to the dropper.
- If you are a beginner, you may feel a little warmth or a little oily in the throat - this is expected.
Step 5—Softly Sniff
- Lightly sniff the oil in so it flows down the deeper nasal passages.
- Do not sniff strongly; avoid anything that creates choking or burning sensations.
Step 6 — Stay Still for a Few Minutes
- Stay still for 1–3 minutes.
- Normal: Light warmth, a slight trickle of oil.
- Not Normal: Sharp pain; strong burning; if so, stop.
Step 7 — Expel Excess Mucus
- Sit and gently spit out any remaining mucus or oil; you may have similar sensations in the throat.
- Once again, do not swallow it as Ayurvedic literature recommends purging the channels.
- Gently clean the nose using a tissue; do not blow vigorously.
6. Aftercare Instructions
- Drink warm water to help clear.
- Avoid cold air, A/C or chilled foods for the next 1–2 hours.
- Avoid heavy physical exertion right afterwards.
- Do not lie down all afternoon again.
7. How Many Times Do You Do Nasya?
- Daily Pratimarsha Nasya
- 2-2 drops in each nostril is okay for most people.
- Therapeutic Nasya
- Heavier doses (4-10 drops) are reserved for more specific conditions; it usually works better with guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner.
8. Mistakes to Avoid
- Doing Nasya immediately post-meal
- Using excessive oil
- Using oil when sick, during a cold, or fever, or a throat infection
- Skipping warming or steam phase
- Doing Nasya in a cold room, or under a fan
9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can beginners do Anu Tailam?
- Yes. Anu Tailam is mild and appropriate for daily Nasya.
- Can I do Nasya if I am sick with a sinus infection?
- Avoid Nasya if you are experiencing a sinus infection/febrile illness or congestion in your nose.
- What is the best Nasya to use daily?
- Anu Tailam or mild ghee-based preparation is the common best.
- Can I do Nasya before bed?
- Yes, typically, if it is done early in the evening, not immediately before sleep.
- Should children do Nasya drops?
- Older children may use mild Pratimarsha Nasya with Ayurvedic provider approval.
10. Conclusion
Self-administering Nasya drops at home is an easy, nurturing Ayurvedic practice that encourages clear breathing, balanced sinus pressure, and clarity of mind. Be patient and take it slow when starting, follow proper preparation of Nasya, and your body and practices will indicate the right medicated drop oil for you. With consistent practice, Nasya can become a centring element of your daily self-care practice.
