Management of Deviated Nasal Septum with Balashwagandha Lakshadi Taila Nasa Picchu Varti – A Case Study

Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)1 is a common structural disorder where the nasal septum, dividing the nasal cavity, deviates from its normal midline position. This condition often results in nasal obstruction, difficulty in breathing, recurrent sinus infections, snoring, and diminished quality of life. Septoplasty is the standard treatment in contemporary medicine; however, surgical intervention carries inherent risks and may not be feasible or acceptable for all patients. In Ayurveda, DNS can be correlated with Nasa Vikara, particularly Nasa Pratinaha2 , which is primarily caused by the vitiation of Vata and Kapha Doshas, leading to functional and structural disturbances of the nasal passages. Ayurvedic treatment aims to restore Doshic balance and improve nasal function using non-invasive therapies such as Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils), Abhyanga (oil massage), Swedana (therapeutic sudation), and internal herbal medications. This clinical study evaluated the efficacy of Balashwagandha Lakshadi Taila3 administered as Nasa Picchu Varti (nasal packing) in the management of DNS. The medicated oil contains Bala (Sida cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Laksha (Laccifer lacca), which possess Brimhana (nourishing), Vatashamaka (Vata-pacifying), and Shothahara (antiinflammatory) properties. The intervention involved placing sterile cotton swabs soaked in lukewarm oil into the affected nostril for 15–20 minutes daily over 7 days. A 29-year-old male patient presenting with nasal obstruction, headache, breathing difficulty, and snoring was diagnosed with Nasa Pratinaha (left nostril). He underwent the 7-day Nasa Picchu Varti4 therapy. Post-treatment assessment showed marked improvement in nasal obstruction, breathing ease, headache relief, and overall comfort. The therapy was welltolerated, with no adverse effects, indicating its potential as a safe, non-invasive alternative for managing DNS.