What Is Apabahuka (Frozen Shoulder) in Ayurveda? Vandit April 22, 2025

What Is Apabahuka (Frozen Shoulder) in Ayurveda?

Woman with kinesio tape on her shoulder. Method is purported to ease pain and disability from athletic injuries and a variety of other physical disorders. Kinesiology, physical therapy, rehabilitation

In Ayurveda, Apabahuka is recognized as a condition caused primarily by an imbalance of the Vata dosha—the force responsible for movement and nerve function. When Vata becomes aggravated, it can dry out and damage the tissues of the shoulder joint, leading to:
• Pain and stiffness
• Muscle wasting around the shoulder
• Limited range of motion
• Difficulty performing simple daily tasks

Unlike many quick-fix solutions that address only symptoms, Ayurveda looks deeper—seeking to balance the doshas, nourish the affected tissues, and support long-term recovery.

Nasya Therapy: Healing Through the Nose

You might be surprised to learn that one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder in Ayurveda isn’t a shoulder massage or herbal pill—it’s Nasya, the practice of instilling medicated oil into the nasal passages.

Why the nose? In Ayurvedic science, the nose is the gateway to the head and nervous system. By applying the oil here, the medicine travels through subtle channels (known as srotas), directly influencing the areas affected by Vata imbalance—including the shoulder joint.

The Power of Laghumasha Taila

Laghumasha Taila is a specially formulated herbal oil enriched with ingredients known to calm Vata, reduce inflammation, and restore muscle tone. It includes:
• Laghumasha (a medicinal legume) for reducing Vata and inflammation
• Dashamoola (a ten-root compound) for pain relief
• Nourishing oils that lubricate and rejuvenate the joints and nerves

This oil is gently warmed and administered into the nose in a safe, therapeutic process known as Marsha Nasya.

Why Choose Ayurveda for Frozen Shoulder?
• Natural & Non-Invasive: No injections, steroids, or surgery
• Holistic Approach: Addresses the root cause, not just symptoms
• Safe & Time-Tested: Based on thousands of years of Ayurvedic wisdom
• Long-Term Relief: Supports tissue healing and prevents recurrence

Is It Right for You?

If you’re tired of temporary solutions and want a gentle, effective, and personalized path to healing, Ayurvedic Nasya therapy with Laghumasha Taila might be your answer. Always consult with a trained Ayurvedic practitioner to determine if this treatment suits your individual constitution and condition.

Final Thoughts

Frozen shoulder doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Through the lens of Ayurveda, conditions like Apabahuka are manageable with the right approach. The combination of traditional herbal oils and Nasya therapy offers a refreshing alternative to conventional pain management, giving hope to those seeking relief naturally.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only. It serves to share general knowledge on various health topics, wellness services, herbal beauty products, and herbal supplements. The reader/viewer assumes full responsibility for the use of this information. It is strongly recommended that a qualified healthcare professional be consulted to determine what is appropriate for individual health, wellness, and the use of herbal beauty products or herbal supplements.

References

Das, B., Ganesh, R. M., Mishra, P. K., & Bhuyan, G. (2010). A study on Apabahuka (frozen shoulder) and its management by Laghumasha taila nasya. AYU, 31(4), 488–494.