Efficacy of Panchendriya Vardhan Taila Nasya in management of Bells’s palsy – A case report

Abstract

Bell’s palsy is an acute, idiopathic disorder characterized by the sudden onset of unilateral lower motor neuron facial paralysis. It presents symptoms such as facial asymmetry, drooping of eyelids, difficulty in eye closure, impaired chewing, and drooling of saliva. In Ayurveda, these clinical features correlate with Ardita, a Vata Nanatmaja Vyadhi described in classical texts. This case report highlights the Ayurvedic management of Bell’s palsy through Nasya therapy using Panchendriya Vardhan Taila. A 38-year-old male patient presented with classical signs of Bell’s palsy and underwent a 14-day treatment regimen consisting of Sthanik Snehan (local oleation), Swedan (sudation therapy), followed by Marsha Nasya with medicated oil. Each nostril received 8 drops daily. The clinical outcome was assessed using subjective improvement and the House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading Scale. The therapy showed marked improvement in the patient’s symptoms, including the ability to close the eye, improved facial symmetry, and better chewing function. According to Ayurvedic principles, Nasya is particularly effective for diseases above the clavicle (Urdhwajatrugata Rogas) because the nasal route directly influences the cranial region, promoting Dosha pacification and nerve nourishment. The administration of Sneha-based medication through the nasal route enhances absorption, improving local circulation and aiding recovery. This case demonstrates that Panchakarma interventions like Nasya can offer significant therapeutic benefits in Bell’s palsy. The encouraging results from this single case suggest the need for larger, controlled clinical studies to validate further the efficacy of Ayurvedic therapies in managing facial palsy conditions