Facial Paralysis is a disorder of the facial muscles and is usually confined to one side of the face. Facial Paralysis occurs when the nerve runs from the ear to the facial muscles on any one side. In this condition, the person suffers a total loss of voluntary movement of the facial muscles and stiffness on one side of the face. It may sometimes advance to paralysis of the entire body on the affected side. Most often this condition will disappear automatically within weeks or in some cases months.
Related: Ayurvedic Cure For Eczema
Ayurvedic Diagnosis
Ayurveda diagnosis is based on the patient’s body constitution, age, sex, family history, sex, age and severity of the disease, etc. Treatments are specifically suited to the individual’s needs and therefore vary with each patient. The aggravation of dosha is determined by asking several questions on the patient’s behavior, food habits, sleeping patterns, and other details like age, height, weight, profession, previous health problems, medical reports, etc. Ayurveda diagnosis may also include clinical and lab tests.
Related: Ayurvedic Cure For Pyorrhea
Causes of Facial Paralysis
In Ayurveda, Facial Paralysis is termed Ardita. Ayurveda attributes Facial Paralysis to the aggravation of Vata dosha as Vata dosha controls the overall balance and functioning of the nervous system. Facial Paralysis is the result of the elements or doshas that affect the nervous system due to mental stress.
Facial Paralysis can also occur due to brain tumors and can be identified by headaches, seizures, or loss of hearing. Trauma during birth can result in facial paralysis in newborn babies.
Related: Ayurvedic Cure For Peptic Ulcer
Ayurveda approaches the disease in a holistic way aimed at natural healing and suggests yoga and meditation calm the mind and relax the nerves as they are highly beneficial. The nervous system is restored to its normal state.
Related: Ayurvedic Cure For Acne
Related: Ayurvedic Treatment For Chest Pain
Symptoms of Facial paralysis
Facial Paralysis manifests suddenly and quickly in the form of pain around the ear. Weakness on one side of the face and facial distortion can also be noticed. The difficulty of closing the eyes, numbness of the face, drooping eyelid, sagging eyebrow, pain in the ear, difficulty in speaking, dry mouth, abnormal blink, etc.
Related: Antipyretic Drugs In Ayurveda
Ayurvedic Treatment for Facial Paralysis
Ayurveda treatment of facial paralysis includes Panchakarma treatment and Rasayan Therapies for 3 to 4 weeks. Massage of lips and cheeks with oil or cream can also provide relief from facial paralysis. Yoga and meditation are other ways suggested relaxing the mind and nervous system.
Panchakarma
Panchakarma is a process of purification of the body of toxins involving various processes that include medicated oil massages, fermented liquid massages, enemas, etc. This process improves blood circulation and energizes the nerves. The patient’s mind is rejuvenated resulting in reduced stress and sound sleep.
Related: Anti Anxiety Drugs In Ayurveda
Rasayan Therapy
Rasayan Therapies are given after Panchakarma to nourish the body to correct the dosha imbalance. Lifestyle changes, yoga, and meditation are advised after Rasayan Therapy. This treatment consists of diet regulation with oral medication. The medicinal power of the herbs restores the enzymes and tissues to normal condition improving the general health of the patient. The medicines are prepared from the extracts of medicinal herbs such as leaves, roots, and spices made in the form of decoctions namely Kahsayam and Arishtam. Pastes called Lehyams are also prescribed. The herbs that are highly beneficial in treating facial paralysis are Bael, Gooseberry, Licorice, Nutgrass tuber, and Winter cherry.
Related: Ayurveda For Respiratory Tract Infection
Ayurvedic Diet Recommendation
A well-balanced diet with high fiber content is recommended. The food should consist of lots of leafy vegetables, fruit juices, and carrot juice. Yogurt is also recommended. High protein foods should be minimized. Processed foods containing chemicals, hot spices, sugar, tobacco, alcohol, and coffee should be avoided. Patients are advised to drink plenty of water daily to flush out toxins from the body.
Lifestyle Recommendation
Exercises and yoga help to relax facial muscles can help in fast recovery.