Nashya Bindu/Medicated Nasal Drops (नस्य -बिन्दु)

A Hypothetical Evolution of Nasya Bindu / Medicated Nasal Drops from Forest to Formula

In the earliest periods of human evolution, the forest was both shelter and healer. Ancient people observed that the fragrance of certain flowers cleared their minds, the aroma of resins opened their breathing pathways, and the fumes of burning leaves relieved headaches. These subtle experiences formed the earliest foundation of Nasya, a therapy where medicines are delivered through the nostrils.

Healers discovered that the nose was not merely an organ of smell, but a doorway to the Shiras (head) — the seat of Prana, Indriyas, and Manas. Early nasal applications began with:

• Fresh herb juices (Swarasa)
• Aromatic smoke (Dhuma)
• Herbal pastes diluted in water or plant sap

Over generations, these simple preparations evolved into oil-based and ghee-based medicated drops, refined through the principles of Sneha Kalpana and Bhaishajya Kalpana. Thus emerged the prototype of Nasya Bindu, a medicinal drop designed to reach the deep channels of the head.

Qualities of a Good Anjana (Collyrium)

• Free from rancidity, fungal growth, or suspended impurities
• Should retain its aroma and potency throughout its shelf life
• Ability to reach minute channels (Sookshma Srotas)

General Mode of Administration of Anjana (Collyrium)

Pre-Procedure (Purva Karma)

• Light head massage (Murdha Abhyanga)
• Gentle fomentation (Mridu Swedana) on face, neck, and forehead
• Patient lies in supine position, head slightly tilted back

Administration (Pradhana Karma)

• Warm the Nasya oil to lukewarm temperature (not hot)
• Instill the prescribed number of drops:
  • Pratimarsha Nasya: 2 drops in each nostril
  • Marsha Nasya: 6–10 drops depending on the patient
• Instruct patient to inhale gently and remain still

Post-Procedure (Paschat Karma)

• Patient should spit out any mucus collected in throat
• Gentle steam inhalation may be used in Kapha conditions
• Rest for 10–15 minutes
• Avoid cold exposure, loud voice, anger, and heavy meals immediately after

General Guidelines for Ayurvedic Practitioners on the Use of Nasya Bindu

• Selection Based on Dosha & Disease
  • Vata Disorders: Use warm, unctuous oils (e.g., Ksheerabala, Anu Taila)
  • Pitta Disorders: Cooling ghrita-based Nasya
  • Kapha Disorders: Strong, stimulating, pungent Nasya with warming oils
• For Elderly & children require milder Pratimarsha Nasya
• For Digestion strength (Agnibala)
• Mental stress level
• Season (Ritu) and time of day
• Avoid Nasya in ; Acute fever, immediately after food, during indigestion or severe headache, during menstruation, pregnancy without medical supervision
• Ideal Time for Nasya: at Morning for Kapha disorders, at noon for Pitta disorders & at evening for Vata disorders. Pratimarsha Nasya can be used anytime, daily.
• Strong Shodhana Nasya should be done only after preparing the body
• For sensitive individuals, start with Pratimarsha Nasya
• Monitor for reactions like excessive tearing, sneezing, or burning
• Encourage calm breathing after instillation
• Avoid exposure to cold wind
• Maintain regularity for chronic disorders
• Explain that Nasya works cumulatively for the patient.

Disclaimer:

This guideline is based on Ayurvedic classical principles and intended for educational use. Practitioners should use their clinical judgment, patient assessment, and individualized protocol before prescribing Nashya Bindu in actual clinical settings.