Nasya Oil Benefits | How to Use Nasya Oil for Greater Wellbeing
Updated: 4 days ago
What is Nasya Oil? Here’s everything you need to know about Ayurvedic Nasya treatment – and how it can improve your life. It's much more than a nose oil treatment.
Explore more on the Saumya Blog, selected top Ayurveda blogs and websites to watch.
As always with our Ayurvedic practice, our focus, intentions, and habits center around prana, the vital life force of the universe. In Ayurveda, our breath is the vehicle of prana, and cleansing breath is the foundation of all health.
The nose, with its passages that lead directly to our brain and consciousness, is the doorway through which prana enters our bodies. As we sweep and clean the entryways to our homes, so too should we cleanse and nourish our vital nasal passageways.
Naysa oil benefits our health and wellbeing by lubricating our nasal passageways and transporting Ayurvedic herbs deep into our body’s tissues. This guide takes a closer look at how to use Nasya oil – and the many ways it can improve your life.
What is Nasya Oil?
Nasya oil is a therapeutic oil used in Ayurveda to nourish and cleanse the nasal passageways. Nasya oil is used for both Panchakarma (specialized deep cleansing) and Dinacharya (daily routine). Nasya oil is infused with Ayurvedic herbs to balance the doshas, improve the flow of prana, and alleviate a number of mental and physical health ailments.
What is Nasya oil good for?
Nasya oil is good for cleansing and nourishing the nasal passages, which helps prana enter and flow through the body. Oil is also an anuapana, or carrier substance. When applied to sensitive nasal membranes, Ayurvedic herbs in Nasya oil are absorbed deep into the tissue layers.
These Nasya oil benefits make the practice an important part of a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan.
What is Nasya Oil Made From?
Nasya oil is made from oil infused with Ayurvedic herbs. There are many types of Nasya oil; each uses different oils and herbs in combination to treat specific ailments or aims. The proper Nasya oil for an individual depends on their unique symptoms, life situation, and doshic constitution.
The beauty and effectiveness of Ayurveda lie in its specificity of treatment. At Saumya Ayurveda, we determine your Prakruti (original constitution) and Vikruti (current state: symptoms and imbalances). From there, your treatment is personalized and laser-focused.
So it is with Nasya treatment. Which oil, infused with which herbs, will benefit you most depends on what’s going on with you – your stage of life, your location, your doshic make-up, and, of course, your symptoms.
Nasya Oil Benefits: The 3 Ayurvedic Doshas
Each person is comprised of a unique mix of the three Ayurvedic doshas, the energetic building blocks of the universe. When our doshas are in balance, we feel good, balanced, vital, and healthy. Doshic imbalances, however, can manifest as a variety of mental and physical ailments and disorders.
When used as part of a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan, the proper herb-infused Nasya oil can help soothe doshic imbalances. An experienced Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner can develop a personalized approach for your unique Ayurveda constitution and life.
Nasya Oil Benefits for Vata Dosha: Nasya oil can remedy common symptoms of Vata imbalances - such as anxiety, anxious depression, sleep troubles, and brain fog.
Nasya Oil Benefits for Pitta Dosha: Nasya oil helps pacify Pitta imbalances to soothe chronic migraines, anger, inflammation, and skin issues such as eczema and rashes.
Nasya Oil Benefits for Kapha Dosha: Out of balance, Kapha can feel sluggish, unmotivated, and just “gunked-up.” Nasya oil clears and nourishes the nasal passageways to pacify Kapha and reinvigorate the flow of Prana
“Your nasya oil really had a strong, positive effect on my life. My mind was racing, and I have been highly stressed for a long time. I did the nasya and suddenly all went quiet. I felt like meditating. Your nasya oil really calmed the mind.” Anonymous, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Explore More: The 3 Ayurvedic Doshas and Their Impact on Your Life Wild List of Vata Imbalances Hot List of Common Pitta Imbalances
Nasya Oil Benefits: General Health & Wellbeing
Nasya oil has many physical and mental benefits. For some, Nasya can help alleviate troublesome issues for which they’ve struggled to find relief. For those in good health, Nasya oil can be used to achieve an even greater state of wellbeing.
The most important Nasya oil benefits are:
“The nasya drops are keeping me healthy! So far, no allergy symptoms this spring and I did not catch the cold my husband had!” - Anonymous, Stillwater, Minnesota
1. Improved Breathing
The flow of Prana relies on regular, grounded breathing patterns and clear nasal passageways. When all these align, all the vital organs, tissues, and cells are being nourished directly through the bloodstream.
Nasya oil benefits the flow of prana by improving our ability to breathe.
It relieves mucus and congestion, clears stagnation and blockages, and lubricates our nasal passageways. This results in enhanced cerebral circulation, longevity, and vitality. It can even provide much-needed soothing for your vocal cords.
Once you’ve improved the flow of prana, we recommend our two steps to feeling more vitality and focus:
2. Greater Focus and Clarity
Our nasal passages are a pathway to our brain and consciousness. Thus, any medication that is administered through the nostrils will affect the mind. And in the case of Nasya oil – that’s exactly what we want.
Nasya oil infused with the proper herbs will quickly improve concentration, mental clarity, and a sharper memory. You’ll even feel that you’re perceiving the world around you more clearly, both consciously and physically, as Nasya oil also supports clear vision.
“Saumya Ayurveda has help me to become reborn. With Veena's help, I have become more than ADHD. My entire body responds better to stress and relaxation. The changes I experienced with Veena allowed me, not only a general understanding of health, but sparked a lifelong journey to use my knowledge to advance the acceptance of Ayurveda as a needed modality of health. This is a feat, considering I had difficulty focusing and digestive issues only four short years ago. Veena’s evaluation and treatment is so individualized that it was easy to adjust my life which spawned health. Veena is a skilled healer with a solution to fit all.” --Jessica B. Naturopath, Molecular Scientist, Medical School Resident, New York City
3. Improved Mental Wellbeing
Nasya oil benefits the flow of prana by clearing and nourishing the nasal passages. This doesn’t just help us breathe better – it helps us feel better, too. When prana is cleared through the breath, you’ll feel stress and tension melt away in your neck, jaw, head, and shoulders. Any energy that has been blocked will be released, and won’t be able to stagnate in these areas.
Stress and anxiety contribute to fading health and many unnecessary afflictions. Unfortunately, they’re far too common. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States, and we all experience psychological and emotional stress to varying degrees. Nasya oil can help balance these energies, so you feel composed and revitalized all day long.
“Oh, golly way, way improved. Stress fell off like an old hairy coat, I’m just not anxious. Depression is way decreased. There just nothing there. I was haunted by anxiety whole life, and it’s just gone.”
--Mark Hughes, Minnesota
4. Better Sleep
Tossing, turning, and fitful sleep can be triggered by a variety of issues. Nasya oil helps reduce physical ailments like sinus congestion, inflammation, and snoring. It can also help pacify doshic imbalances - primarily Vata - that create the stress, anxiety, and racing thoughts that keep us counting sheep.
If you’re plagued by restless nights, an Ayurvedic practitioner can help you identify the proper herbalized oils to alleviate your unique sleep stressors.
“I was tired of seeking advice from mainstream medical professionals, even my beloved midwives. I have long had heavy periods, but it took a turn a couple years ago, getting even heavier. As a result of so much blood loss, I had become highly anemic, irritable, sleeping restlessly, hooked on morning coffee, and suffering through bloating, craping, and spotting for a good chunk of the month.
With Veena’s help, things are getting aligned. I am now a firm believer that: A.) She definitely knows what is talking about and B.) Ayurvedic medicine can be trusted. I am grateful to have found Veena!”
--Angie D., Minnesota
5. Hair Loss Treatment
Chronic stress doesn’t just make us feel like pulling our hair out – it can make our hair fall out on its own. According to the Mayo Clinic, three types of hair loss are linked to high stress levels.
Over 80 million people in the United States, including 30 million women, experience significant hair loss. One benefit of Nasya oil? It can help prevent and reduce hair loss, and even speed up regrowth.
Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapies (which include Nasya oil) support our overall well-being to slow down the aging process. When we’re healthy, balanced, and at peace – our hair grows stronger and sticks around longer.
6. Migraine Relief
Applying herbalized oil to the nasal passageways is a direct route to soothing and rebalancing doshas in the mind channel, or manovahasrota. What does this have to do with your migraine issues? Everything.
Think of it this way: Vata governs movement, and Pitta is heat. What does heat do? It rises! When Vata is imbalanced it can push Pitta upwards. When heat builds in the head, it can result in painful migraines.
The causes of those doshic imbalances are different for every person – and treatment should be, too. Book a free consultation to discover how to soothe recurring migraines through Nasya oil and other Ayurvedic practices.
“I have suffered from chronic headaches and migraines for as long as I can remember. I had talked to multiple specialists and had been prescribed a variety of medications that helped somewhat – but never really fixed the issue.
Veena’s plan of action consisted of herbal remedies, including Nasya oil treatment, alongside some simple changes to my diet. Right away, I noticed a significant decrease in the number of headaches I was getting. When I did get them, they were much less severe than they had been in the past.
This is certainly the headache treatment plan that I have seen the biggest benefit from, and I plan to continue my new regimen moving forward.”
--Adrienne Sobering, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Nasya Oil Benefits: Smoothing Seasonal Transitions
Lubricating the nostrils with herbalized oil is especially supportive during seasonal transitions. During the shift from one season to the next, Vata, Pitta and Kapha are more in flux leaving us more vulnerable to stress and illnesses. There are many types of nasya oil. Which type of nasya oil is most beneficial depends on one’s prakruti (constitution) and vikruti (current state) as well as location, stage of life, and the season.
"The key for all of us is to reduce stress. Saumya Ayurveda clients use our guided meditation practices (11 minutes as part of their morning routine and 11 minutes as part of their evening routine) and learn diaphragmatic breathing techniques. These foundational tools, just minutes a day, helps to save our hair – and our lives."
--Veena, Saumya Ayurveda
How to Use Nasya Oil: Apply Laying Down or Sitting Up
There are two ways to use Nasya oil: laying down or sitting up. Application is simple, and only takes a minute – but the Nasya oil benefits can last all day.
How to Use Nasya Oil Laying Down
Lie Down: Find a comfortable position laying flat on your back, resting your head on a small pillow, or hanging your head off the edge of your bed.
Tilt Head: Lean back slightly and position the head so your nostrils are opening toward the sky or ceiling.
Apply Oil: Using a Q-tip, bottle dropper, or your pinky finger, place 3-5 drops of Nasya oil in each nostril. Apply in a circular motion until the nasal passages are fully-coated.
Sniff Deeply: Take a few forceful inhalations and rest for a few minutes to allow the Nasya oil to penetrate your nasal membranes.
How to Use Nasya Oil Sitting Up
Sit Down: Find a comfortable seated position with the head, neck, and spine in alignment.
Apply Oil: Place one drop of Nasya oil on your pinky finger and gently insert it into your nostril. If using a dropper, hold it outside the nostril and release a few drops into each nostril.
Sniff Deeply: Take a few forceful inhalations (while pinky is still inside nostril).
Massage Passages: Gently massage the inner walls of your nasal passage until all the membranes are fully-coated.
Repeat: Alternate between your left and right nostril until each has received three applications of Nasya oil.
FAQs: How to Use Nasya Oil
Can we do Nasya oil daily?
Daily Nasya oil treatment is safe for most people. Many types of Nasya oil can be used daily to support the mind, respiratory system, and flow of prana into the body. Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure you’re using the proper herb-infused oil, and that daily application is safe for you.
When is the best time to use Nasya oil?
The best time to do Nasya is right before you brush your teeth, at least an hour before or after showering or exercising. Nasya is most effective as part of an Ayurvedic daily routine or dinacharya. These daily rituals help us flow with energetic changes in our environments.
Build an Ayurvedic morning routine or Ayurvedic evening ritual.
Who should not do Nasya?
Nasya oil treatment is generally safe for all people, but there are circumstances where it is not recommended.
You should not do Nasya:
If you have an active fever
If you are experiencing an acute illness
Before eating or drinking
Before taking a shower
If you are currently pregnant
If you’ve recently given birth
During menstruation
If you experience dyspnea, COPD, or asthma
If you are younger than seven or older than 80
Unlock the Benefits of Nasya Oil with Saumya Ayurveda
With a daily anointing of Nasya oil, you’ll experience many benefits for your mind, body, and soul. Best of all, it’s so simple, it takes less than a few minutes every day.
“Your nasya oil treatment really had a strong, positive effect on my life. My mind was racing, and I have been highly stressed for a long time. I did the nasya and suddenly all went quiet. I felt like meditating. Your nasya oil really calmed the mind.” - Anonymous, New Mexico
“The nasya drops are keeping me healthy! So far, no allergy symptoms this spring and I did not catch the cold my husband had!” -K.K., Minnesota
Discover the Saumya Ayurveda Way
We all want to be heard, understood, and cared for as whole beings, not a set of isolated symptoms. True health is more than the absence of disease, which is why Western medicine so often leaves us feeling hopeless and unseen.
Deep down, you already know what you’re searching for: a new framework for living – one that brings your entire being back into balance. With Saumya Ayurveda, you’ll receive individualized guidance to create the physically, mentally, and spiritually vibrant life you crave.
Saumya Ayurveda provides concierge, top-notch, award-winning Ayurveda care. We strive to keep it simple, so you can focus on you! Opt for virtual consultations and we'll come to you.
Our practice model is client focused, we’re not in the retail herb business. We’ll guide you where to order herbs directly online. Our top-shelf Ayurveda oils and herbalized ghees are the best in the land and we’ll ship your care package right to your doorstep.
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"Veena has helped me so much! I had been struggling with fatigue for many years. I tried many things, read lots of books, advice, etc. Nothing worked, or very slight positive change over the years, but I was still struggling with the everyday. Then a couple months with Veena, I was stunned at how Ayurveda and her customized approach worked! Not only did the fatigue go away, but I actually have renewed energy and feel so physically and mentally energetic! I am so grateful. I feel like I got living my life back."
--Michelle Cheuk, St. Paul, Minnesota
Veena is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and meditation teacher, and monk.
She is President Emeritus and teaching faculty of the Meditation Center.
Veena fell in love with the traditional medicine used in her family’s home, learning herbal remedies at her grandmother's knee.
These childhood experiences were the seeds of a lifelong passion. For over 30 years, Veena has dedicated her life to the world’s oldest healing system: Ayurveda.
She draws on this ancient wisdom to help others find their compass to a healthy life – and support those left wanting by Western medicine.
An experienced Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, Veena’s deep, intuitive knowledge of Ayurveda empowers her clients to reclaim their fullest, most vibrant lives –mentally, physically, and spiritually. Veena individualizes treatment plans to each person, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, so it fits your life and becomes woven in your lifestyle, naturally.