Feeding Your Brain

There’s something almost mystical about Nasya , the Ayurvedic practice of applying herbal oil drops through the nostrils. I’ve been using it regularly lately, especially in the evenings, and I’m amazed at how profoundly it calms my mind and helps me sleep. It feels like a soft whisper of nourishment reaching deep inside, soothing my thoughts, balancing my energy, and bringing me back to myself.

What Is Nasya?

Nasya is one of the five purification therapies (Panchakarma) in Ayurveda. It involves administering herbal oil, ghee, or medicated drops into the nasal passages to clear and nourish the head and mind. Ayurveda teaches that the nose is the gateway to the brain, a direct channel that influences our prana (life force), emotions, memory, and mental clarity.

How I’m Using Nasya Right Now

Before bed, I warm a small bottle of herbal Nasya oil and apply 2–3 drops in each nostril after a gentle face and foot massage. I take a deep breath, letting the oil travel upward and inward, and instantly, my thoughts begin to slow down. My mind feels soothed, my sinuses open, and my sleep becomes deeper and more peaceful.
It’s also been helping me with dryness, not just physical dryness in the nasal passages, but the subtle “dryness” of the nervous system that comes from overstimulation and stress.

Benefits of Nasya You Might Not Have Heard Of

Beyond helping with congestion or sinus issues, Nasya offers many subtle and profound benefits:

• Supports deeper sleep by calming the overactive mind and balancing Vata dosha.
• Enhances focus and memory by nourishing the brain and improving oxygen flow.
• Lubricates the sinuses and throat, preventing dryness caused by AC, heaters, or seasonal winds.
• Reduces anxiety, dizziness, and headaches by grounding the nervous system.
• Improves voice, clarity, and communication, traditionally said to support the subtle channels of expression.

The Different Types of Nasya

In classical Ayurveda, there are several kinds of Nasya depending on your goal and the season:

• Brimhana Nasya (Nourishing): Uses ghee or herbal oils like Anu Taila, Shadbindu Taila, or sesame oil infused with Brahmi or Ashwagandha, ideal for dry, depleted, or anxious types.
• Shodhana Nasya (Cleansing): Uses stronger herbs like Trikatu (ginger, black pepper, pippali) or eucalyptus to clear excess Kapha and toxins.
• Shamana Nasya (Pacifying): Uses mild herbs like rose, sandalwood, or licorice to soothe irritation, redness, or heat in the head.
• Marsha Nasya (Therapeutic): Done under Ayurvedic guidance, this involves a slightly larger dose of oil during Panchakarma to deeply nourish and purify.
• Pratimarsha Nasya (Daily use): Gentle daily self-care version, usually just 2 drops per nostril, safe for most people.

Common Herbs Used in Nasya Oils

Depending on the formulation, Nasya oils may contain:

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Enhances memory and calms mental chatter.
• Ashwagandha: Strengthens the nervous system and reduces stress.
• Calamus (Vacha): Sharpens focus and clears mental fog.
• Eucalyptus or Tulsi: Opens the sinuses and clears Kapha.
• Licorice and Sandalwood: Cool and soothe Pitta imbalances.

When to Be Careful

Although Nasya is deeply rejuvenating, it’s not for everyone or for every time:

• Avoid during cold, flu, sinus infection, heavy congestion, or fever.
• Skip it right after eating, bathing, or exercise.
• Pregnant or menstruating women should consult their practitioner first.
• Use milder oils if you are highly sensitive or prone to headaches.
• Always use clean, fresh oil never reused or old oils.

Who Benefits the Most

Nasya is especially beneficial for:

• People with Vata or Pitta imbalances; anxiety, insomnia, dry skin, restlessness, or scattered thoughts.
• Those living in dry or windy climates or spending long hours in air conditioning.
• Anyone seeking a more peaceful mind or a spiritual practice that connects breath and awareness.

A Gentle Reminder

Nasya may look simple, but it’s a sacred ritual a moment to pause, breathe, and send nourishment into your most delicate inner channels. It’s one of my favorite Ayurvedic rituals to restore inner peace, especially when life feels noisy or overwhelming.

Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before beginning any new regimen.