Introduction
Peenasa is a commonly encountered disorder of the upper respiratory tract, primarily affecting the Nasa (nose) and Urdhva Jatrugata Pradesha (region above the clavicle). In classical Ayurvedic texts, Peenasa is classified under Nasa Roga (nasal disorders), and it is largely attributed to vitiation of Kapha Dosha, often in association with Vata and Pitta.
In simple terms, Peenasa manifests as chronic nasal congestion, excessive mucus discharge, sneezing, blocked sinuses, loss of smell, and facial heaviness, often corresponding with modern diagnoses like chronic sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, or nasal polyps.
Nidana (Causative Factors)
According to Ayurvedic principles, Peenasa is caused by the following:
- Excessive consumption of cold foods
- Intake of heavy, oily, and dairy-rich foods
- Daytime sleeping, especially after meals
- Suppression of natural urges like sneezing or crying
- Exposure to dust, smoke, or allergens
- Weak digestive fire leading to Ama formation
These factors aggravate Kapha and Vata, causing accumulation in the head region, leading to obstruction of nasal pathways.
Dosha Involvement & Types of Peenasa
Peenasa can be classified based on Dosha predominance:
1. Vataja Peenasa:
- Dry nose
- Headache
- Pain around the eyebrows
- Whistling or dryness in the nostrils
2. Kaphaja Peenasa:
- Profuse, thick white mucus
- Heaviness in the head
- Dullness of mind
- Sticky nasal discharge
3. Pittaja Peenasa:
- Yellowish nasal discharge
- Burning sensation
- Mild fever
- Foul smell in the nose
4. Sannipataja Peenasa:
- All symptoms combined
- Chronic and difficult to treat
5. Dushta Peenasa (Chronic or Complicated)
- Long-standing condition
- Often unresponsive to simple treatments
- May lead to complications like nasal polyps or loss of smell
