Article: AYURVEDIC ERRHINES: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF CLASSICAL MEDICINAL PLANTS FROM THE BRIHATRAYI

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.166232

Pages: 161-169

Author: N. Aiswarya *, Jain Divya, Gautam Krati, Xalxo R. Anjana, Monika, Sahu Subash

Abstract: Shirovirechana (Errhine) or Nasya Karma is one of the Panchakarma procedures in which drugs are administered through nose the "gateway to the head" (Nasa hi shiraso dwaram), to expel the morbid doshas from the head and neck region. Numerous herbal drug options and formulations are described in Brihatrayi (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya) for this purpose. This procedure is advised for both preventive and therapeutic benefits. This study aimed to compile, analyze and compare medicinal plants indicated for Shirovirechana in the three major classical treatises, along with their Ayurvedic properties and potential pharmacological correlates. Comparative and thematic analysis was performed. Seventy unique plants have been identified from the Brihatrayi, excluding synonyms. Most plants have Katu (pungent) or Tikta Rasa (bitter taste), Ushna Virya (hot potency), and Katu Vipaka (pungent metabolic effects), indicating pacifying actions on Kapha and Vata. Modern evidence supports anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and neuroprotective potentials. Integration of classical Ayurvedic knowledge with modern research can support scientific validation of Nasya therapy for various Urdhwajatrugata (head and neck) disorders. Clinical trials on the single herbal drug are very limited. Although some clinical studies are available, there is still a lack of clinical evidence supporting the use of a single drug for Shirovirechana. Further pharmacological and clinical research of these plants is imperative.

Keyword: Shirovirechana, Nasya Karma, errhine, Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, medicinal plants.