Phana
Phana · Serpent's Hood, The Flared Hood
About Phana
Phana marma takes its name from the hood of a cobra -- the flared, protective expansion that mirrors the shape of the nasal wings flaring outward from the central bridge of the nose. Located on either side of the nostrils, this sira (vessel) marma sits over the terminal branches of the facial artery and the sensory nerves that govern the sense of smell. The Sushruta Samhita classifies Phana among the points whose injury results in loss of the sense of smell (ghrananasha), highlighting its governance over olfactory function.
In therapeutic practice, Phana is the primary gateway for treating conditions of the nose, sinuses, and respiratory system. It is the preparatory point for nasya therapy -- the Ayurvedic practice of administering medicated oils or herbal preparations through the nostrils. Stimulating Phana before nasya opens the nasal passages, improves absorption of the medication, and directs its action more precisely. The nose is considered the door to the brain in Ayurveda (nasa hi shiraso dwaram), and Phana serves as the gatekeeper of this critical entryway.
Therapeutic Applications
Nasal congestion, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, loss of smell (anosmia), preparation for nasya therapy, nasal polyps support, snoring, respiratory allergies, Kapha accumulation in the head, and headaches originating from sinus pressure
Technique
Place the index fingers on either side of the nostrils, where the nostril wing meets the cheek. Apply gentle upward and inward pressure, pressing into the small groove alongside the nose. Use small circular movements. For sinus drainage, stroke upward along the sides of the nose from Phana toward Avarta (eyebrow). Coordinate pressure with slow breathing through the nose.
Pressure
Moderate. Phana can receive direct, focused pressure, and the point often feels immediately productive as sinus pressure releases. Adjust based on congestion level and tenderness.
Duration
2-3 minutes bilateral massage. Before nasya therapy, 1-2 minutes of preparatory stimulation. For acute congestion, repeated brief sessions of 1 minute throughout the day.
Oil Recommendation
Anu taila (the classical nasya oil) applied at the point before nasal administration. Sesame oil with eucalyptus or camphor for Kapha-type congestion. Brahmi ghee for Vata-type dryness of the nasal passages. Shadbindu taila for chronic sinusitis.
Contraindications & Cautions
Avoid firm pressure during active nosebleed (epistaxis). Use caution with nasal polyps -- gentle pressure only, directed away from the polyp. Contraindicated immediately after nasal surgery. Do not perform during acute sinusitis with fever. Avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy, as strong nasal stimulation can trigger reflexive responses.
Related Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Phana marma point located?
The Phana marma point (Phana, meaning "Serpent's Hood, The Flared Hood") is located at on either side of the nostrils, at the junction of the nasal ala (nostril wing) and the cheek, overlying the facial artery branches. It is a Sira (vessel) type point in the head & neck region, with a size of 1/2 anguli (finger-width).
How do you stimulate the Phana marma point?
Place the index fingers on either side of the nostrils, where the nostril wing meets the cheek. Apply gentle upward and inward pressure, pressing into the small groove alongside the nose. Use small circular movements. For sinus drainage, stroke upwar The recommended pressure is: moderate. phana can receive direct, focused pressure, and the point often feels immediately productive as sinus pressure releases. adjust based on con
What are the therapeutic benefits of Phana marma?
Phana marma therapy is used for: Nasal congestion, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, loss of smell (anosmia), preparation for nasya therapy, nasal polyps support, snoring, respiratory allergies, Kapha accumulation in the head, and headaches originating from sinus pressure. It is associated with the Ajna (Third Eye) chakra and the Earth (Prithvi) and Water (Jala) element.
Which dosha is associated with Phana marma point?
Phana is primarily associated with Kapha and Vata. Its connected organ is nose, sinuses, lungs, olfactory system, and it relates to the Ajna (Third Eye) chakra. Stimulation of this point helps balance the associated dosha when done with appropriate oils and pressure.
What oils should I use on the Phana marma point?
Anu taila (the classical nasya oil) applied at the point before nasal administration. Sesame oil with eucalyptus or camphor for Kapha-type congestion. Brahmi ghee for Vata-type dryness of the nasal passages. Shadbindu taila for chronic sinusitis. Always choose oils suited to your constitution and current state of balance.
Marma Self-Care Guide
Self-massage techniques, pressure point diagrams, and oil recommendations for all 108 marma points.
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