Karna-Poorana, Gandusha and Voice Hygiene in Ayurvedic ENT Wellness: A Safety-Oriented Protocol for Ear and Throat Complaints

Abstract

Ear fullness, tinnitus-like perception, throat irritation, and occupational voice fatigue are common complaints in Ayurveda outpatient departments. Classical Shalakya Tantra includes Karna-Poorana, Karna-Dhoopana, Kavala, Gandusha, Nasya, and pathya-apathya advice, but routine use without otoscopic or laryngeal safety screening can be inappropriate. This paper designs a conservative wellness protocol for adult ear and throat complaints, emphasizing referral signs, hygiene education, and documentation. Literature from classical sources, tinnitus and hoarseness guidelines, and recent Ayurveda presbycusis protocol work was synthesized with a synthetic service audit of 54 adults. One figure and three tables illustrate triage, outcome tracking, and operational safeguards. The paper argues that Karna-Poorana and Gandusha should be studied as supervised supportive practices for selected low-risk adults, while sudden hearing loss, discharge, severe pain, vertigo, foreign body, and persistent hoarseness require biomedical evaluation. A clinic that communicates these boundaries can preserve traditional practice while improving public safety.

KEYWORDS: Karna-Poorana; Gandusha; tinnitus; voice hygiene; Ayurvedic ENT; Shalakya Tantra