A review study on nasya karma and its karmukta
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review study on nasya karma and its karmukta
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Dr. Bharti Vijayrao Bire, Dr. Komal Prasanna Pawar and Dr. Prasanna Rajendra Pawar
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Full text available for: A review study on nasya karma and its karmukta
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202216-26420
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Nasya karma is a significant therapeutic practice in Ayurveda, classified as one of the Panchakarma therapies. This process involves administering herbalized oils and liquid medicine through the nostrils, primarily targeting diseases affecting the Urdhwajatrugata Vikara, or the supraclavicular region. Nasya is unique as it utilizes the nasal route, which has been described by ancient scholars as a direct pathway to the brain and associated with enhanced endocrine and nervous system functions. The goal of this paper is to elaborate on the concept of karmukta related to Nasya karma based on both Ayurvedic texts and modern literature.
Nasya Karma: A Therapeutic Measure
Nasya karma, referred to in classical texts as Shirovireka or Murdha Virechana, is a therapeutic intervention aimed at eliminating morbid Doshas from the head. The medication administered through the nasal route reaches the brain and acts on the Shringataka Marma, a critical area linked to various sensory functions such as speech, vision, and hearing. This procedure can effectively clear vitiated Doshas from the head region, with Nasya karma being the only treatment that directly influences the sensory organs. The therapeutic nature of Nasya lies in the use of diverse drug forms, including medicated oils, ghee, powder, and smoke, which collectively promote health and alleviate disorders.
Mode of Action of Nasya Karma
The mode of action of Nasya karma is intricately linked to its physical and physiological effects. Administration through the nasal cavity allows the drugs to penetrate the Sringataka Marma, distributing throughout the various Strotasas (vessels and nerves) in the cranial area. The properties of the drugs used—often characterized by Katu (bitter), Ushna (hot), and Tikshna (sharp)—promote the liquefaction and expulsion of vitiated Doshas. Furthermore, Nasya karma enhances blood circulation within the brain, as drugs absorbed through the nasal mucosa reach the cerebrospinal fluid and venous sinuses, thereby facilitating the removal of accumulated morbid substances from the body.
Nasya's Role in Neurovascular Health
Nasya karma serves a multifaceted role, affecting both local and systemic health conditions. When drugs are instilled into the nasal cavity, they not only nourish the nasal mucosa but also stimulate local circulation, which can help in treating systemic ailments. The stimulation of olfactory and trigeminal nerves induces pathways that enhance blood flow and nourishment to the brain. This therapy has been recognized for addressing mental disorders, as it can influence the limbic system and facilitate immediate psychological benefits, making it relevant not only for physical health but also for mental well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nasya karma represents a vital therapeutic approach in Ayurveda, demonstrating its efficacy in expelling accumulated morbid Doshas and enhancing neurovascular health. The practice not only addresses local and systemic ailments but also has profound implications for mental health by acting on the central nervous system. The comprehensive effects of Nasya karma justify its enduring significance in contemporary Ayurvedic medicine, suggesting that further exploration and integration of this therapy can positively impact health outcomes.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Nasya Karma and its significance in Ayurveda?
Nasya Karma is a Panchakarma therapy in Ayurveda that involves administering herbalized oils or medicines through the nostrils. It is primarily used for treating Urdhwajatrugata Vikara, which refers to ailments related to the supraclavicular region, helping to expel vitiated Doshas.
How does Nasya Karma affect the nervous system?
Nasya Karma enhances the functions of the endocrine and nervous systems. It directly stimulates olfactory and trigeminal nerves, influencing cerebral circulation and increasing the nourishment of brain tissues, which can aid in alleviating various neurological disorders.
What types of drugs are used in Nasya Karma?
Common drugs used in Nasya Karma include Apamarga, Pippali, Maricha, and Shigru. These drugs can have properties like Katu (bitter), Ushna (hot), and Tikshna (sharp), which help liquefy and expel morbid Doshas from the body.
What conditions are indicated for Nasya Karma treatment?
Nasya Karma is primarily indicated for disorders affecting the upper body, particularly those involving the head, such as migraines, sinusitis, or neurological issues. It's effective in addressing both local and systemic diseases.
What is the recommended timing for Nasya Karma administration?
According to Acharya Vagbhata, Nasya should be administered at specific times based on the type of Dosha involved and the season: Vata in evening, Pitta in afternoon, and Kapha in the morning to optimize therapeutic effects.
What are the physiological effects of Nasya Karma?
Nasya Karma improves blood circulation in the brain and nasal area. It stimulates mucosal lining, improving osteomeatal physiology and aiding in the clearance of paranasal sinus secretions, which can help reduce congestion and inflammation.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review study on nasya karma and its karmukta�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda where medicated substances are administered through the nasal route. It is believed to directly access the brain, impacting various functions related to sensory perception and cognition, thereby allowing for the treatment of conditions related to the upper body and mind.
2) Karma (Karman):
Karma in the context of Nasya Karma refers to an action or procedure that plays a specific role in Ayurvedic treatments. It encompasses not just the act of administration but also the techniques and methods employed to perform the treatment effectively, optimizing beneficial outcomes for the patient.
3) Drug:
Drugs, similar to 'drug,' refer to all medicinal substances employed in therapy. In Nasya karma, a variety of drugs with specific properties are utilized to target different ailments, primarily those linked to the head, promoting healing through their pharmacological actions on the body.
4) Nasyakarman (Nasyakarma, Nasya-karma):
Nasya-karma is the combined term that signifies the overall process and methodology of performing nasal therapy in Ayurveda. It encapsulates the preparation, application, and intended therapeutic benefits, highlighting its importance as a specialized practice in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various disorders.
5) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental energies in Ayurvedic medicine—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that govern physiological functions. An imbalance or vitiation of these doshas leads to health issues, making their regulation crucial for maintaining health, especially in therapies like Nasya karma for restoring doshic balance.
6) Vikara:
Vikara denotes the disease or disorder resulting from the imbalance of doshas in the body. In Ayurvedic texts, it often describes the various states of ill health that can be influenced and treated through therapies such as Nasya, aiming to eliminate morbid conditions and restore overall wellness.
7) Dravya:
Dravyas, the plural of dravya, signifies multiple types of medicinal substances or preparations used in treatments. In Nasya therapy, a diverse range of dravyas, including oils and powders, is employed to address specific doshic imbalances and support overall wellness.
8) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Shirah, meaning 'head' in Sanskrit, signifies the area targeted by Nasya therapy. The procedure aims to clear vitiated doshas from this region, benefiting cognitive functions and the associated sensory organs by providing a direct treatment mechanism through the nearby nasal pathway.
9) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the body responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products. In the context of Nasya karma, improved blood circulation to the brain and upper body is a significant benefit derived from the therapy, aiding in the removal of morbid doshas.
10) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated indicates an altered or imbalanced state of doshas or bodily functions in Ayurveda. The term underscores the goal of therapies like Nasya karma, which aims to cleanse and rectify these vitiated conditions, restoring harmony and health to the individual.
11) Ritu (Rtu):
Ritu denotes the seasonal aspect crucial in Ayurveda for determining the timing of various treatments. Different seasons offer unique environmental influences affecting doshas and health, thus guiding practitioners in deciding the appropriate timing for implementing therapies like Nasya for optimal efficacy.
12) Nasa (Nasha):
Nasa refers to the nose, which is the administration route for Nasya karma. This proximity to the brain allows for swift action of the administered herbal substances, facilitating treatment for ailments related to the head and enhancing sensory organ functions.
13) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is a revered ancient Ayurvedic scholar whose texts include detailed descriptions of Nasya karma. His contributions are instrumental in shaping the understanding and practice of this nasal therapy, outlining indications, methodologies, and types of treatments based on dosha imbalances.
14) Medicine:
Medicines, referring to the substances used in treatment, focus on those administered via Nasya in Ayurveda. The selection includes various herbal compounds tailored to target specific health issues, ranging from local conditions to systemic diseases in the upper body.
15) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriyas, referring to the senses, highlight the relevance of Nasya karma in treating conditions relating to sensory perception. By impacting these pathways directly, Nasya facilitates improved functionality and responsiveness of the Indriyas through the nasal route.
16) Marma:
Marma represents vital points in the body where tissues intersect, holding significant therapeutic value. In the case of Nasya, targeting Shringataka marma through nasal administration is believed to influence brain functions and enhance the efficacy of the treatment.
17) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine focused on holistic health and balance among body, mind, and spirit. It encompasses various therapies, including Nasya karma, to promote healing and wellness by addressing the root causes of ailments through natural means.
18) Amravati:
Amravati is a city in India where Ayurvedic education and practices are conducted. The affiliated institutions contribute to the research and application of therapies like Nasya karma, promoting traditional knowledge through contemporary studies and educational initiatives.
19) Disease:
Diseases symbolize the states of ill health caused by dosha imbalances or external factors. The treatment approach in Ayurveda focuses on identifying the root causes and utilizing methods like Nasya karma to rectify these issues effectively.
20) Surface:
Surface indicates the outer layer of an anatomical structure. In Nasya karma, the nasal mucous membrane surfaces are targeted for drug absorption, allowing medications to penetrate directly to the brain and achieve rapid therapeutic effects.
21) Prana (Pran):
Prana denotes the vital life force or energy in Ayurveda. Nasya karma influences Prana by enhancing respiratory functions and affecting consciousness, promoting healing and balance in bodily functions, particularly in mental health treatments.
22) Road:
In this context, 'road' metaphorically refers to the pathways that facilitate the passage of substances in the body. The nasal route is articulated as a direct road to the brain in Nasya karma, highlighting its significance in therapeutic interventions.
23) Shringataka (Srngataka, Shrimgataka):
Shringataka refers to a specific marma point associated with the brain in Ayurveda. Administration of drugs through Nasya reaches this marma, facilitating healing of disorders related to cognition and sensory functions by directly targeting the nerve centers.
24) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated refers to the build-up of morbid doshas or substances in the body. Nasya karma aims to expel these accumulated doshas through the nasal route, restoring balance and health in the affected regions, particularly within the head.
25) Salivation:
Salivation is the secretion of saliva, which can be significantly influenced by Nasya karma. As the therapy acts on the nasal passages, it may stimulate salivary glands, enhancing oral health and providing a reflex mechanism for expelling doshas.
26) Brimhana (Brmhana):
Brimhana denotes nourishing therapies used to promote health and vitality. In the context of Nasya, the term places emphasis on using certain medications that enhance bodily functions and restore balance to doshas for optimal well-being.
27) Prasanna:
Prasanna, referring to clarity and tranquility in Ayurveda, indicates a reclaimed state of well-being following treatments such as Nasya karma. This state suggests success in restoring physical and mental health, cultivated through proper administration of therapies.
28) Snehana:
Snehana refers to oleation or oil application in Ayurvedic treatments aimed at nourishing and soothing the body. In conjunction with Nasya karma, it promotes the absorption of medications via the nasal route, enhancing efficacy and treatment outcomes.
29) Tikshna (Tiksna):
Tikshna signifies sharpness or potency in herbal properties. In Nasya karma, Tikshna dravyas are often employed to expedite the expulsion of morbid doshas, aligning with the therapeutic goal of restoring balance through effective treatment solutions.
30) Doshaja (Dosha-ja, Dosaja):
Doshaja refers to conditions or diseases arising from dosha imbalances. Understanding these influences helps practitioners determine the appropriate therapy, including Nasya karma, to address the specific dosha-related health issues effectively.
31) Navana:
Navana is one of the distinct types of Nasya karma utilized in Ayurvedic practices. It typically involves herbal renditions, focusing on achieving specific therapeutic results and encouraging the balance of doshas related to head and sensory functions.
32) Murdha (Murdhan):
Murdha, meaning 'head' or 'skull,' specifies the corporeal area targeted in Nasya karma. The procedure directly addresses conditions affecting the head region, promoting healing through nasal administration of therapeutic substances aimed at restoring balance.
33) Sira (Shira):
Shira indicates 'head' in Sanskrit, emphasizing the anatomical focus of Nasya therapy. The delivery of herbal preparations through the nose directly to the Shira is instrumental in treating ailments associated with cognitive and sensory impairment.
34) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to heat, a significant quality in Ayurvedic medicines. Certain Ushna dravyas used in Nasya karma enhance the therapeutic action of drug delivery through their warming properties, particularly beneficial for disorders related to cold and congestion.
35) Katu:
Katu denotes bitterness or acrid quality, characterizing specific herbs used in therapies like Nasya karma. Katu dravyas are beneficial for alleviating Kapha-related disorders, promoting effective elimination of accumulated doshas and fostering a return to health.
36) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the taste or essence of medicinal substances in Ayurveda, signifying their therapeutic qualities. The different rasas of drugs used in Nasya can influence the effectiveness of treatment, aiding in the restoration of balance within the body.
37) Tear:
Tears, as a physiological response, can occur during Nasya administration due to nasal stimulation. This reflex assists in flushing out accumulated doshas and illustrates the interconnectedness of bodily responses involved in the holistic treatment offered by Nasya karma.
38) Mental disorder:
A mental disorder is a classification of health issues influencing emotional and cognitive stability. Nasya karma's role in addressing these conditions highlights its relevance in integrative approaches to mental health, where traditional therapies intersect with modern understandings of psychology.
39) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the study and application of drugs and their effects on the body. The pharmacological aspects of Nasya karma illustrate how specific substances can influence physiological processes and contribute to healing through targeted medicinal action.
40) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa refers to sweetness, a taste associated with certain therapeutic herbs. In Nasya karma, drugs with Madhura-rasa offer nourishing and calming effects, balancing opposing doshas and facilitating a holistic approach to health and well-being.
41) Purvakarma (Purva-karman, Purvakarman):
Purva-karma describes preparatory procedures that set the stage for the main therapeutic action. In Nasya karma, these prior actions ensure optimal conditions for the subsequent treatment, enhancing its effectiveness and the patient's overall response to therapy.
42) Arunadatta:
Arunadatta was an ancient Ayurvedic commentator whose works provide significant insights into various treatments, including Nasya karma. His interpretations and guidance continue to influence the understanding of these practices in contemporary Ayurvedic medicine.
43) Discussion:
Discussion reflects the examination of findings concerning Nasya karma, evaluating its effectiveness and implications in Ayurveda. Analyzing outcomes and methodologies is crucial in validating the practices and enhancing the integration of traditional knowledge with current scientific evidence.
44) Siddhanta (Siddha-anta, Siddhamta):
Siddhanta refers to the principles and doctrines within Ayurvedic philosophy. Understanding Siddhanta is essential for practitioners to apply Nasya karma effectively, ensuring treatments align with foundational concepts regarding health, disease, and the body’s rhythms.
45) Apamarga:
Apamarga is a commonly used herb in Ayurvedic treatments, often utilized in Nasya karma for its therapeutic properties. Its incorporation highlights the emphasis on herbal remedies in Ayurveda and their specific applications in nasal therapies.
46) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana denotes purification processes in Ayurveda aimed at detoxifying the body. In Nasya karma, Shodhana plays a vital role in restoring harmony by eliminating accumulated doshas, enhancing health and facilitating the effectiveness of subsequent treatments.
47) Apasmara:
Apasmara indicates a type of mental disorder characterized by a loss of consciousness or a state similar to epilepsy. Nasya karma is recommended for such conditions due to its ability to influence cognitive and neurological functions through direct access to the brain.
48) Vataghna (Vata-ghna):
Vataghna refers to substances or treatments that pacify Vata dosha imbalances. Specific herbs and formulations used in Nasya karma leverage this property to effectively mitigate conditions caused by vitiated Vata arising from various disorders affecting the head and sensory regions.
49) Shishira (Sisira):
Shishira, meaning winter in Sanskrit, emphasizes the season's role in Ayurvedic treatments. Certain conditions may arise during this time, prompting specific recommendations for Nasya karma timing to establish balance and appropriate therapeutic responses.
50) Entering:
Entering speaks to the process by which therapeutic substances infiltrate the body's systems through nasal administration in Nasya karma. The targeted delivery enhances the speed and efficiency of treatment, establishing a direct connection between medicine and the intended physiological response.
51) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the ancient language of India in which many Ayurvedic texts and principles are articulated. Familiarity with Sanskrit allows practitioners to understand the nuances of Ayurvedic terminology related to therapies like Nasya karma and their cultural significance.
53) Doorway:
Doorway metaphorically describes the function of the nose as a gateway to the brain in Nasya therapy. This concept highlights the unique accessibility the nasal route provides for delivering medicine that can profoundly impact cognitive and sensory functions.
54) Vaidya:
Vaidya is a term for Ayurvedic healers who diagnose and treat health issues through traditional methods. Their role is vital in administering Nasya karma and ensuring the tailored application of therapies aligns with individual patient needs and dosha characteristics.
55) Vedana:
Vedana refers to the sensation of pain or discomfort. Understanding Vedana in relation to Nasya karma allows practitioners to address pain effectively, applying targeted nasal treatments that promote relief and restore balance among the doshas.
56) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha signifies dryness in herbal properties, often characterizing specific formulations used in Ayurvedic therapies. In the context of Nasya karma, Ruksha dravyas can help balance excess Kapha conditions, promoting effective cleansing and expelling of accumulated doshas.
57) Shigru (Sigru):
Shigru, also known as moringa, is an essential herb used in Ayurvedic treatments. Its inclusion in Nasya karma highlights the reliance on potent herbal remedies to restore doshic balance and promote health, emphasizing its preventative and curative properties.
58) Varsha (Varsa):
Varsha denotes the monsoon season in Ayurveda, during which specific dosha imbalances may occur, prompting tailored Nasya therapies. Recognizing seasonal influences allows practitioners to optimize treatment outcomes and address health concerns prevalent during this time.
59) Unmada:
Unmada refers to a specific mental disorder characterized by various cognitive disruptions. Nasya karma can be a beneficial treatment for such conditions, enhancing mental clarity and function by delivering medicinal substances to the brain effectively.
60) Kantha (Kamtha):
Kantha refers to the throat, an area relevant in Ayurveda for its connection to respiratory health and vocal functions. Nasya treatments can influence this region by clearing accumulated doshas and promoting improved overall health linked to the throat.
61) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja indicates health conditions arising from an imbalance of Vata dosha. Therapeutic approaches like Nasya karma specifically target Vata-related disorders affecting the head and sensations, aiming to restore equilibrium and alleviate symptoms through nasal delivery of herbal substances.
62) Bitter:
Bitter denotes a specific taste associated with various herbs in Ayurveda. Bitter dravyas are known for their detoxifying properties, often included in Nasya karma to promote cleansing and restore balance among the doshas, particularly useful for Kapha-related issues.
63) Nature:
Nature refers to the inherent qualities of substances used in Ayurveda. Understanding the nature of medicinal herbs in the context of Nasya karma allows practitioners to select appropriate treatments that align with the patient's dosha profiles and health conditions.
64) Powder:
Powder pertains to a form of medication that can be administered through Nasya karma. Herbal powders are often used in nasal therapies, leveraging their fine texture for rapid absorption and effective treatment of conditions affecting the upper body.
65) Indian:
Indian signifies the cultural and historical context of Ayurveda, emerging from ancient Indian traditions. This background informs the practices of Nasya karma and other therapies, intertwining cultural beliefs with holistic health practices developed over millennia.
66) Nashta (Nasta):
Nastha is a term found in classical texts referring to the therapeutic use of the nasal route. It signifies the ancient understanding of administering medications through the nose as a valid and effective means for treating disorders.
67) Kriya:
Kriya denotes an action or procedure in Ayurvedic practice. In the context of Nasya karma, kriya highlights the importance of the method employed to ensure effective treatment outcomes, taking into consideration the individual characteristics of the patient.
68) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda associated with earth and water elements. Managing Kapha imbalances through therapies like Nasya karma is essential for promoting health, where specific herbal actions target conditions such as congestion and sluggishness.
69) Munja (Mumja):
Munja refers to grass often used metaphorically in Ayurveda to represent cleansing processes. The analogy draws a parallel between the removal of Munja grass and the therapeutic action of Nasya karma in expelling accumulated doshas and restoring balance.
70) Netra:
Netra signifies the eyes, highlighting the interconnectedness of sensory organs in Ayurveda. Nasya karma's impact on the nasal tissues extends to Netra, enhancing visual functions and illustrating the holistic approach to sensory health within Ayurvedic practices.
71) Dhuma:
Dhuma pertains to the inhalation of medicated smoke in specific Ayurvedic therapies. In the context of Nasya, Dhuma may serve as an adjunct treatment, enhancing the therapeutic effects of topically administered medicines through olfactory pathways.
72) Purva:
Purva denotes preparatory processes preceding therapeutic interventions in Ayurveda. In Nasya karma, Purva emphasizes essential steps taken to optimize treatment conditions and ensure patient readiness for the efficacy of nasal administration.
73) Atapa:
Atapa refers to intense sunlight or heat, which can provoke dosha imbalances, particularly Pitta. Recognizing seasonal effects like Atapa helps practitioners determine appropriate timings for administering Nasya karma to align treatment with external environmental influences.
74) Study (Studying):
Study signifies the investigation and examination of Ayurvedic practices and therapies. Engaging in careful study of Nasya karma contributes to the understanding of its effectiveness, principles, and applications within both traditional and modern healthcare frameworks.
75) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee is clarified butter widely used in Ayurvedic formulations, often employed in Nasya karma for its nourishing properties. Its use highlights the importance of fat-soluble substances in enhancing the therapeutic effects of nasal treatments due to their smooth texture and palatability.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 92]
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