Management of Ardit w.s.r to Bell ’s palsy with Nasya and Ayurveda treatment protocol- A Single Case Report

Abstract

A 36 year old female patient with two weeks history of right sided facial paralysis, presenting with inability to close right eye, which also had tearing and a burning sensation.In present time, due to fast life style, anxiety, stress etc., incidence of Vatavyadhi like Pakshaghata, Ardita etc is increasing. Aggravation of Vata is responsible to cause Ardita. On the basis of its origin and symptoms mentioned in Sushruta Samhita, Ardita can be correlated with facial paralysis or Bell’s palsy caused by involvement of VII cranial nerve.  The great Indian sage Caraka, in his medical tome scripted in the second century BC describes the aetiology and management of Ardita. Bearing this idea in mind Nasya karma with panaspatra sveda was selected in present case.  There was no previous history of similar symptoms or a recent infection. Prior treatment had included oral steroids. The patient perceived a 70% to 80% improvement of facial movement after the first treatment. After the second treatment, the patient reported full control of his facial movement.