Facial palsy refers to the inability to move the muscles of the face, either on one or both sides, leading to noticeable facial weakness and difficulty in expressing emotions. It can also cause discomfort and difficulty with speech and eating. In Ayurveda, this condition is understood as a disturbance of Vata dosha and involves the dysfunction of the 7th cranial nerve, which controls the facial muscles.

Causes of Facial Palsy

1. Inflammation of the 7th Cranial Nerve: Often the primary cause of facial muscle paralysis.
2. Stroke: Brain injury leading to nerve dysfunction.
3. Excessive Yawning or Loud Laughing: Physical strain on the facial muscles.
4. Eating Hard Food: Overuse of facial muscles while chewing.
5. Carrying Heavy Loads on Head: Strain on the neck and facial nerves.
6. Infection of the Middle Ear: Inflammation affecting the facial nerve.
7. Herpes Zoster: Viral infections such as shingles affecting facial nerves.
8. Viral Infections: Other viruses that can attack facial nerve function.
9. Skull Fracture: Physical injury causing nerve damage.

Symptoms of Facial Palsy

• Facial Weakness: Drooping of one side of the face, inability to smile or raise the eyebrow.
• Impairment in Taste: Loss of taste sensation on one side of the tongue.
• Muscle Twitching: Involuntary muscle spasms in the face.
• Ringing in Ears: Tinnitus in one or both ears.
• Difficulty in Speech: Slurred or unclear speech due to muscle weakness.
• Pain and Discomfort: Jaw pain and pain behind the ears.
• Head Tremors: Involuntary shaking or trembling of the head.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Facial Palsy (Bells Palsy)

At Deeksha Veda Ayurvedic, we offer a range of Panchakarma therapies to restore normal facial muscle function and balance Vata dosha.

1. Abhyanga (Therapeutic Massage):
   • Deep, soothing oil massage helps relieve tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation of the facial muscles.
   • Specific oils are chosen to balance Vata and nourish the facial nerves.
2. Nadi Sweda (Herbal Steam Therapy):
   • Herbal steam therapy to relieve muscle stiffness and promote the free flow of energy (prana) in the face and head.
   • Often performed with Ksheera Dhooma (milk-based steam) for added nourishment.
3. Kukkutanda Sweda (Egg-based Steam Therapy):
   • A unique Ayurvedic therapy where eggs are used to release toxins from the body and help restore function to the facial muscles.
4. Nasyam (Nasal Therapy):
   • Medicinal oils are administered through the nostrils to clear blocked channels, purify the head region, and balance Vata dosha, which can improve facial nerve function.
5. Sirobasti (Oil Retention on the Head):
   • A therapeutic procedure where warm medicated oil is retained on the head to nourish the nervous system and help restore facial muscle movement.
6. Karnapoorana (Ear Oil Therapy):
   • Medicinal oil is poured into the ears to improve circulation, remove toxins, and enhance nerve function, especially for conditions caused by ear infections.

Consultation and Guidance

It is important to consult an experienced Vaidya (Ayurvedic Doctor) before beginning any treatment. The doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, including pulse diagnosis, and recommend a personalized treatment plan that may include internal medications, diet recommendations, and lifestyle adjustments in addition to Panchakarma therapies.

Benefits of Ayurvedic Treatment for Facial Palsy

• Restores normal muscle tone and movement in the face.
• Reduces inflammation and pain.
• Improves circulation and relieves muscle stiffness.
• Helps balance the nervous system and restore normal nerve function.
• Addresses underlying causes like Vata vitiation, promoting long-term recovery.

Deeksha Veda Ayurvedic offers holistic treatments for Facial Palsy, helping you regain your facial expression and improve overall well-being. Book a consultation today to start your healing journey.