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  2. Volume 2 I Issue 3 [July To September]
  3. “COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVES ON NASYA THERAPY IN ENT AND OPHTHALMIC DISORDERS: AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN REVIEW”
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Ms. Priya Bhaware

“COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVES ON NASYA THERAPY IN ENT AND OPHTHALMIC DISORDERS: AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN REVIEW”

Introduction: Nasya, the administration of medicated oils, powders, or decoctions through the nasal route, is one of the five Panchakarma therapies described in Ayurveda. It is specifically indicated for diseases of the head and neck region, including ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) and ophthalmic disorders. Ancient texts describe the nose as the "gateway to the head" (Shiraso Dwaram), highlighting its therapeutic potential in conditions affecting sensory organs. Methods: This review employed a comprehensive literature search using Ayurvedic classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Both experimental and clinical studies published between 2000–2025 were included. Keywords such as “Nasya,” “ENT disorders,” “ophthalmic disorders,” “Ayurveda,” and “herbal nasal therapy” were used. Inclusion criteria focused on studies exploring Nasya in ENT or eye disorders, while exclusions involved non-peer-reviewed works or anecdotal reports. Results: Evidence from Ayurveda indicates that Nasya is beneficial in disorders like sinusitis, rhinitis, migraine, cervical spondylosis, optic neuropathy, and Timira (refractive errors). Modern research supports its pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, mucolytic, and ocular perfusion-enhancing actions. Clinical outcomes show improved nasal patency, reduced sinus inflammation, better headache control, and enhanced visual acuity. A comparative review demonstrates that while ENT applications of Nasya have stronger modern evidence (e.g., sinusitis, allergic rhinitis), ophthalmic uses require more robust validation though promising results exist. Discussion: Nasya therapy bridges traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern drug delivery principles, particularly intranasal administration targeting the central nervous system and ocular tissues. The review highlights gaps in standardized formulations, dosage protocols, and clinical trials. Conclusion: Nasya remains a versatile therapy for ENT and ophthalmic disorders, with classical rationale and emerging modern validation. Strengthening pharmacological and clinical evidence could expand its role as an integrative therapeutic approach.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, ENT disorders, Nasya therapy, ocular therapeutics, Panchakarma