Nasya – Therapy for the Sense of Smell

Part of the Indriya Chikitsa (Therapy for the Senses) Series

Many people have heard of Nasya, a therapy that not only supports respiratory health but also helps balance hormones and neurotransmitters. But its benefits go far beyond the nose. Nasya also plays a profound role in calming the mind, supporting memory, and potentially protecting against cognitive decline.

Let’s explore this therapy through both the Ayurvedic lens and modern scientific research.

The Nose–Brain Connection

The nasal cavity is lined with sensory receptors, blood vessels, and nerves. It connects to the sinus cavity and to nerve pathways that reach the olfactory region of the brain.

The nasal mucosa is unique: it is the only site in the body that offers a direct connection between the external environment and the central nervous system. Substances administered through the nostrils can reach the brain through three main routes:

1. Directly via olfactory neurons
2. Through supporting cells and surrounding capillaries
3. Through cerebrospinal fluid pathways

Among all senses, only smell and taste project both to higher cortical areas and to the limbic system—the emotional and memory centers of the brain. This is why certain odors can instantly trigger vivid memories and strong emotional responses.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Nasya

Ayurveda places a deep emphasis on the relationship between the nāsā (nose) and śiras (brain). The nose is one of the pañcajñānendriyas (five sense organs), with functions extending far beyond simple olfaction and respiration—it is considered a gateway to the brain.

Classical texts explain that medicines administered through the nostrils reach the śṛṅgāṭakamarma (vital point at the base of the brain), spread through the ūrdhvajatru (head and neck region), and help expel deep-seated doṣas(imbalances).

Herbal oils that are tīkṣṇa (sharp), uṣṇa (warming), and vyavāyī (quick-acting) can influence cranial nerves through the cribriform plate, impacting limbic centers such as the amygdala and hippocampus—areas deeply tied to consciousness, mood, and memory.

Western Neuroscience Perspective

From a modern standpoint, the olfactory nerve has direct access to brain regions such as the hippocampus and amygdala without detouring through the thalamus. This unique pathway explains why:

• Smell loss can predict future memory decline
• Odors evoke particularly vivid emotional memories
• Stimulating olfactory pathways can enhance neuroplasticity and cognitive function

In other words, what Ayurveda describes as “nourishing the subtle channels” aligns with neuroscience’s understanding of maintaining sensory–memory pathways and promoting brain health.

How to Practice Nasya

There are two main types of Nasya:

1. Daily Nasya (Pratimarsha Nasya) – A gentle, maintenance-oriented practice as part of Dinacharya (daily routine).
   • Typically2 drops of herbal oil, sesame oil, or plain ghee in each nostril
   • Can be done at home
   • Helps keep nasal passages clear, nourishes tissues, and maintains mental clarity
2. Shodhana Nasya – A therapeutic, more intensive form performed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
   • Uses herbal oils, decoctions, ghee, swaras (fresh herbal juice), or herbal powders
   • Involves 4–8 drops and a structured pre- and post-procedure
   • Addresses deeper imbalances such as hormonal disorders, nerve degeneration, chronic sinus issues, and mood disturbances
   • Not recommended for self-administration at home

Even the simple daily practice of Pratimarsha Nasya is remarkably effective when done regularly.

Scientific Studies Supporting Nasya’s Role in Memory & Brain Health

1. Smell Loss Predicts Dementia

• A study of nearly 3,000 adults (ages 57–85) found those unable to identify at least 4 of 5 common odors were over twice as likely to develop dementia within 5 years.
• Smell decline was a better early predictor than some major diseases like heart failure or cancer.

2. Olfactory Decline Linked to Brain Shrinkage

• A 15-year study found that impaired smell correlated with faster memory decline and smaller hippocampal and entorhinal cortex volume—key brain areas for learning and recall.

3. Smell Training Improves Brain Structure

• Structured olfactory training (sniffing rose, lemon, cloves, eucalyptus twice daily for 12 weeks) increased olfactory bulb volume by 11–13% and improved memory performance.
• MRI scans showed increased grey matter in the hippocampus, thalamus, and cerebellum.

4. Nasya-Specific Evidence

• Early studies on sesame oil Nasya in elderly populations suggest improvements in cognitive performance and mental well-being.
• Some research combining Nasya with Ashwagandha in elderly insomnia patients noted improved sleep, stress resilience, and likely indirect cognitive benefits.

How the Findings Connect

• Ayurveda: Nasya nourishes and clears the subtle channels, helping preserve mental clarity and memory.
• Science: Nasya may help maintain olfactory–memory pathways, reduce inflammation, and stimulate brain regions linked to emotions and recall.
• Shared Insight: Protecting the sense of smell is not just about the nose—it’s about preserving brain health and emotional balance.

Simmi Chopra is a highly accomplished Ayurvedic Practitioner with a unique blend of expertise in traditional Ayurveda and modern science. Trained in the ancient healing system, she completed the prestigious Ayurveda Doctor program from Kerala Ayurveda. Based in New York City, Simmi practices at SIDH Ayur, where she offers personalized Ayurvedic therapies, dietary guidance, lifestyle recommendations, and herbal solutions to help clients achieve holistic balance. – https://youtu.be/q-Re2i9phhY

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