History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c22.s3.43

v1.c22.s3.43

5. *Nasya Karma*: Errhine therapy or nasal insufflation is described as a purgative to the head (*Śiro-virecana*). It consists in introduction into the nostrils, suitable medicines in liquid form (oils or *taila*) or powder form (*cūrṇa*) in order to throw out the vitiated *doṣas* from the parts of the body above the classic. The treatment is administered through the nose, because the nose is the gateway to the head. Three varieties of therapy are recognised purgative or eljminatory (*Recaka*) nourishing or cooling (*Tarpana*), and sedating or alleviating (*Sāmaka*) (CS.Si.9. 89-92).