Ghee In Nostrils (Nasya) for Cognitive Function

Research suggests that nasal oil administration (Nasya), as part of broader Ayurvedic treatment protocols, may be associated with improvements in cognitive outcomes such as memory and orientation, though the available evidence is quite limited. The current body of literature consists of a single case report, a narrative review of Ayurvedic medicinal plants, and a theoretical article on nasal oil application for respiratory protection — none of which are controlled clinical trials or studies specifically isolating ghee-based Nasya as an independent intervention for cognitive function. Studies indicate that the plants and preparations commonly used alongside Nasya, such as Brahmi and Ashwagandha, have plausible molecular mechanisms related to brain aging and memory, but researchers consistently note that rigorous human trials are needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn. Overall, the existing evidence is preliminary, largely theoretical, and insufficient to establish whether ghee-based Nasya specifically contributes to cognitive benefits independent of the multimodal treatment contexts in which it has been studied.