Management of Ardita (Bell鈥檚 palsy) through Ayurvedic Approach
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Management of Ardita (Bell鈥檚 palsy) through Ayurvedic Approach
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Dharmani Geetika
Deputed lecturer, A.M.O., Post-Graduate Department of Kayachikitsa, Rajiv Gandhi Government Post-Graduate Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Paprola, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Thakur Pratibha
MD Scholar, Post-Graduate Department of Kayachikitsa, Rajiv Gandhi Government Post-Graduate Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Paprola, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Management of Ardita (Bell鈥檚 palsy) through Ayurvedic Approach
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i5.1402
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Bell鈥檚 palsy, an idiopathic condition characterized by unilateral facial paralysis resulting from lower motor neuron impairment, has an incidence rate of approximately 15 to 20 per 100,000 individuals annually. This condition often manifests as sudden weakness on one side of the face, leading to symptoms such as facial asymmetry, inability to close the eye on the affected side, drooping of the mouth, and potential difficulties in taste sensation. The condition generally resolves spontaneously in about 80% of cases within weeks or months, and treatment usually involves steroid administration. This case study highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments, particularly Nasya Karma and Shirodhara, in managing Bell鈥檚 palsy, which is correlated with the Ayurvedic concept of Ardita.
Therapeutic Interventions in Ayurvedic Management
In the present case study, a 35-year-old female patient presented with acute facial palsy. Diagnosed with Bell鈥檚 palsy, she underwent various Ayurvedic treatments, including Sthanik Snehana (localized oleation), Nadi Swedana (localized steam), Nasya Karma (medicated oil via nasal route), and Shirodhara (pouring warm medicated oil over the forehead). These interventions aimed to alleviate vitiated Vata and support the nourishment of the Dhatu (tissues). The patient received compounded herbal formulations including Ekangveer Rasa, Brahmi Vati, and Triphala, each chosen for their specific properties to stabilize the neurological functions and promote recovery.
Mechanism of Action of Treatments
The therapeutic interventions employed in this case leverage established Ayurvedic principles. Nasya Karma, for instance, is suggested to channel medicinal substances through the nasal route to the brain, enhancing absorption and facilitating the elimination of morbid doshas. Shirodhara, renowned for its calming effects, potentially stimulates the nervous system and improves circulation in the brain. The study emphasizes that these techniques not only address the physical symptoms of facial paralysis but also cater to the psychosomatic aspect, suggesting a comprehensive approach to recovery. The patient exhibited significant improvements in facial muscle function and overall symmetry post-treatment, illustrating that Ayurvedic practices can effectively complement conventional treatments.
Conclusion
The management of Bell鈥檚 palsy through Ayurvedic interventions, as illustrated in this case study, demonstrates marked symptomatic relief and functional recovery. The patient exhibited a substantial improvement in her facial presentation and functionality within two weeks of treatment. This case reinforces the potential of traditional Ayurvedic methodologies for treating conditions like Ardita (Bell鈥檚 palsy) and suggests avenues for further clinical trials to explore their efficacy. The positive outcomes attained speak to the holistic approach in Ayurveda, emphasizing the importance of tailoring treatment strategies to address both physical and emotional health in patients with neurological conditions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Bell's palsy and its main symptoms?
Bell's palsy is a sudden, unilateral facial paralysis characterized by weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, difficulty closing the eye, drooping of the mouth, and impaired taste sensation. It results from inflammation of the facial nerve.
How was the 35-year-old female patient treated?
The patient underwent Ayurvedic treatments including Sthanik Snehana, Nasya Karma, and Shirodhara, along with specific oral formulations. Significant improvements were observed in facial functions within two weeks.
What are the Ayurvedic procedures used in Bell's palsy management?
Ayurvedic management for Bell鈥檚 palsy includes Nasya (medicated oil through nostrils), Shirodhara (pouring of oil on the forehead), and Sthanik Snehana (localized massage). These methods aim to alleviate Vata dosha and improve nerve function.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淢anagement of Ardita (Bell鈥檚 palsy) through Ayurvedic Approach鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ardita (Arddita):
Ardita is a term in Ayurveda for Bell's palsy, characterized by the sudden onset of unilateral facial paralysis. It is considered one of the 80 Nanatmaja Vyadhis of Vata dosha, indicating its association with the imbalance of the Vata dosha.
2) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy where medicated oils or decoctions are steadily poured on the forehead. It is used for mental relaxation, reducing stress, and treating neurological conditions. In this case, Dashmoola Kwatha was used for the therapy.
3) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya involves administering medicated oils or powders through the nostrils, which reach the Shringataka Marma and spread throughout the head, eyes, ears, and throat to eliminate morbid dosha and nourish the Shira (head).
4) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to medicated oils used in various Ayurvedic therapies such as Nasya and Shirodhara. For instance, Anu Taila was used for Nasya Karma in this case to provide relief from Bell's palsy symptoms.
5) Rasa (Rasha):
In the context of Ayurveda, Rasa can refer to taste or biomedical compounds in formulations. Ekangveer Rasa, for example, was given to the patient for its Vata pacifying properties.
6) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and responsible for the manifestation of conditions like Ardita (Bell's palsy) when vitiated. The Ayurvedic treatment aimed to pacify the Vata dosha.
7) Food:
Food may affect dosha balance and is part of lifestyle factors considered in the treatment. The patient was vegetarian and maintained a good appetite, which was relevant to her overall management plan.
8) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Ardita is associated with Vata dosha vitiation, and treatments were aimed at balancing this dosha.
9) Blood:
Rakta (blood) is considered in the pathology of Ardita, where excessive blood loss can lead to the condition. The disease may follow Rakta Kshaya (blood deficiency).
10) Katu:
Katu refers to the pungent taste, one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. Anu Taila has Katu Tikta Rasa, which helps in the treatment through its Srotoshodhana (channel-clearing) properties.
11) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi Swedana is a localized steam therapy used in the patient's treatment plan to help facilitate drug absorption and improve circulation.
12) Drug:
Ayurvedic formulations such as Ekangveer Rasa, Brahmi Vati, and Triphala Churna were part of the treatment schedule aimed at alleviating symptoms and balancing doshas.
13) Anutaila (Anu-taila):
Anu Taila is an Ayurvedic medicated oil used in Nasya procedures for its properties to nourish and clear blockages in the nasal and head region.
14) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, which document traditional medical knowledge, including treatments for Ardita.
15) Nostril:
Nostril refers to the route of administration for Nasya Karma. Medications like Anu Taila are administered through the nostrils to treat conditions such as Ardita.
16) Marma:
Marma points are vital areas in the body. For example, Shringataka Marma, targeted during Nasya, is a significant head region influencing multiple sensory organs.
17) Nasyakarman (Nasyakarma, Nasya-karma):
Nasya Karma is the therapeutic administration of drugs through the nostrils, performed in this case with Anu Taila to relieve symptoms of Bell's palsy.
18) Madhura:
Madhura (sweet) is one of the tastes in Ayurveda, present in Ekangveer Rasa, useful for pacifying Vata dosha and nourishing Dhatus.
19) Brahmi:
Brahmi Vati, containing the Brahmi herb, was used for its cognitive enhancing and anxiolytic properties, contributing to the overall treatment regimen.
20) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of a substance. Anu Taila has Katu Vipaka, facilitating channel clearing and effective in treating Vata and Kapha imbalances.
21) Karma (Karman):
Karma in this context refers to therapeutic actions like Nasya Karma, a treatment for administering medication through the nostrils to alleviate conditions like Ardita.
22) Tikta:
Tikta, meaning bitter taste, is part of the pharmacological properties of Anu Taila, aiding in Srotoshodhana and benefiting cases of Ardita by balancing Vata dosha.
23) House:
House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading scale was used to assess the patient's facial nerve function before and after treatment, showing improvement from grade 4 to 1.
24) Vati:
Vati refers to Ayurvedic pills or tablets. For example, Brahmi Vati and Ekangveer Rasa were part of the oral medications prescribed to the patient.
25) Guna:
Guna refers to quality. Anu Taila has Laghu (light) and Teekshana (piercing) Guna, aiding in the treatment of Ardita by facilitating quick absorption and action.
26) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura Rasa means a sweet taste which is helpful in balancing Vata dosha. It is one of the properties of Ekangveer Rasa used in the patient's treatment.
27) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata dosha is responsible for movement and neurological functions. Its vitiation can lead to conditions like Ardita, and pacifying treatments aimed at this dosha were adopted.
28) Mahamasha (Mahamasa, Maha-masha):
Mahamasha Taila, used in Sthanik Snehana (localized oleation), has properties that help in balancing Vata dosha and improving local circulation.
29) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the imbalance or disturbance of doshas. In Ardita, Vata and sometimes Pitta doshas are vitiated, necessitating treatments that restore balance.
30) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala Churna, an Ayurvedic formulation of three fruits, was prescribed to the patient for its digestive and detoxifying properties.
31) Sthapani:
Sthapani Marma, located between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya), is related to mental functions and was indirectly stimulated during Shirodhara therapy in this case.
32) Medicine:
Ayurvedic medicine refers to various therapeutic formulations like Anu Taila, Ekangveer Rasa, and Brahmi Vati, prescribed to treat the patient's symptoms.
33) Snehana:
Snehana is the oleation therapy used before Nasya, involving the application of oils like Mahamasha Taila to facilitate absorption and improve circulation.
34) Samanya:
Samanya means general or common; many clinical findings were categorized under Samanya such as usual skin texture and temperature.
35) Murdha (Murdhan):
Murdha refers to the head. Shirodhara (a type of Murdha Taila) involves pouring medicated oil or decoction on the forehead to treat neurological and psychosomatic conditions.
36) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for structure and lubrication. Imbalances can lead to issues treated in this case with medications like Ekangveer Rasa which also targets Kapha.
37) Laghu:
Laghu means light or easily digestible, a quality found in Anu Taila which aids in efficient absorption during Nasya Karma for treating Ardita.
38) Sira (Shira):
Shira means head, and in Ayurvedic treatments like Nasya, it indicates the main site of action for alleviating doshas affecting the cranial region.
39) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna means hot; many Ayurvedic medicines, including Anu Taila, possess Ushna Veerya (hot potency) important for pacifying Vata dosha in conditions like Ardita.
40) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the bodily tissues. Nourishment of Dhatus was a part of the treatment strategy to manage Vata vitiation in Ardita.
41) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta Samhita is one of the classical texts of Ayurveda, providing descriptions of diseases like Ardita and their treatments.
42) Vedanasthapana (Vedana-sthapana):
Vedanasthapana means pain-relieving. Dashmoola Kwatha used in Shirodhara has Vedanasthapana properties suitable for managing pain and inflammation in Ardita.
43) Disfigurement:
Disfigurement, such as facial asymmetry in Ardita, was corrected through Ayurvedic treatments, much to the patient's relief and satisfaction.
44) Inflammation:
Inflammation of the facial nerve is a potential cause of Bell's Palsy. Treatments like Anu Taila and Dashmoola Kwatha have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial in such cases.
45) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
Dhatukshaya refers to tissue depletion, contributing to Vata vitiation in Ardita. Treatment focused on nourishing Dhatus to counter this.
46) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha dosha, responsible for structure and lubrication, is balanced alongside Vata in conditions like Ardita using treatments such as Ekangveer Rasa.
47) Shringataka (Srngataka, Shrimgataka):
Shringataka Marma is a vital point in the head area affected during Nasya Karma, relevant to the treatment of neurological conditions like Ardita.
48) Adhishthana (Adhisthana):
Adhisthana means the site of origin or primary location of a condition. In Ardita, the Shira (head) is considered the Adhisthana.
49) Bhrumadhya (Bhru-madhya):
Bhrumadhya, located between the eyebrows, is a site influenced during Shirodhara therapy that aids in mental relaxation and stress reduction.
50) Ashtavidha (Astavidha, Ashtan-vidha):
Ashtavidha Pariksha refers to eightfold examination procedures in Ayurveda, including Nadi (pulse), Mala (stool), Mutra (urine), Jihwa (tongue), and others, used for clinical assessment.
51) Katutikta (Katu-tikta):
Katu-tikta Rasa refers to the pungent and bitter tastes found in Anu Taila, contributing to its therapeutic efficacy in treating disorders like Ardita.
52) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiro Roga refers to head diseases. Ardita, being localized to the face and head area, falls under this category, requiring specialized treatments like Nasya and Shirodhara.
53) Perception:
Perception issues like taste sensation were moderately affected in the patient but improved significantly after Ayurvedic treatment including Nasya and medications.
54) Discussion:
Discussion provides insights into the methodology and outcome of the treatments used in this case, indicating the effectiveness of Ayurvedic intervention in managing Ardita.
55) Purvakarma (Purvakarman, Purva-karman):
Purvakarma refers to pre-treatment procedures like Abhyanga (massage with oil) and Nadi Swedana (localized steam), which prepare the body for the main treatments like Nasya.
56) Knowledge:
Knowledge of classical Ayurvedic treatments, as documented in texts like Charaka Samhita, guided the therapeutic approach for Ardita in this case.
57) Substance:
Substance refers to the therapeutic agents like Anu Taila and Dashmoola Kwatha used in Ayurvedic treatments. These have specific properties and actions beneficial for conditions like Ardita.
58) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic form of massage using oils like Mahanarayan Taila, which helps in alleviating Vata dosha and preparing the body for further treatments.
59) Madhyama:
Madhyama refers to moderate or average, used in clinical examination findings such as Akriti (appearance) to describe the patient's build or state.
60) Pariksha (Pariksa):
Pariksha means examination or assessment, involving multiple diagnostic methods like Ashtavidha Pariksha to understand the patient's doshic imbalances and symptoms.
61) Delusion (Deluded):
Delusion was absent in the patient's higher motor function assessment, indicating no severe mental disturbances in her neurological examination.
62) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Ashtang Hridaya is a classical Ayurvedic text that mentions treatment protocols, including Nasya and Shirodhara, relevant for managing Ardita.
63) Tarpana:
Tarpana Kriya refers to nourishing treatments mentioned in Charaka Samhita for managing conditions like Ardita.
64) Shrotra (Srotra):
Shrotra (ears) were part of the head region affected in Ardita. Treatments like Nasya aimed to address the morbid doshas affecting this area.
65) Sparsha (Sparsa):
Sparsha refers to touch sensitivity; the patient had decreased sensation over the left side of her face, which improved after treatment.
66) Snigdha:
Snigdha means oily or unctuous, a quality relevant to the nourishing and lubricating actions of oils like Anu Taila used in Nasya Karma.
67) Upanaha:
Upanaha Sweda is a fomentation technique mentioned in Charaka Samhita as part of Ardita treatment, involving the application of warm paste on the affected area.
68) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya refers to the astringent taste, which is one of the tastes attributed to herbs in Anu Taila, aiding in treating conditions like Ardita by pacifying doshas.
69) Disease:
Disease in this context refers to Ardita or Bell's Palsy, a unilateral facial paralysis managed effectively through Ayurvedic treatments.
70) Shabda (Sabda):
Shabda means sound or speech; mild slurring of speech was one of the symptoms that saw improvement with the Ayurvedic treatments given.
71) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means dry, a quality counteracted by the Snigdha (oily) Guna of oils like Anu Taila in the treatment of Vata disorders like Ardita.
72) Ushana (Usana):
Ushana Veerya, or hot potency, is a characteristic of Anu Taila and other Ayurvedic medications used to pacify Vata dosha in conditions like Ardita.
73) Sthana:
Sthana refers to the site or location. In Ardita, the head (Shira) is the primary Sthana affected by the disease and targeted in treatments.
74) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya means depletion or deficiency, such as blood loss leading to Rakta Kshaya, which can precipitate conditions like Ardita.
75) Akriti (Akrti):
Akriti refers to appearance. In the clinical findings, Akriti was noted as Madhyama, suggesting a moderate build of the patient.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 100]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Management of Ardita (Bell鈥檚 palsy) through Ayurvedic Approach鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Dhatu, Dosha, Nidana, Shirodhara, Shiroroga, Ardita, Nasyakarman, Vatadosha, Sthapani Marma, Ayurvedic approach, Amapachana, Triphala Churna, Bell's Palsy, Marsha nasya, Nadi Swedana, Mahamasha taila, Facial palsy, Brahmi vati, House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading scale, Dashmoola kwatha, Ekangveer Rasa, Sthanik Snehana, Sthanik Swedana.