A CLINICAL APPROACH TO THE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ARDITA W.S.R. BELL'S PALSY – A CASE STUDY

Introduction: Ardita is a vataja nanatmaja vikara, vitiation of Vata Dosha in the Urdhvajatrugata leading to impairment of the Dhamani’s and Snayus of the facial region. Ardita simulates bell’s palsy or acute idiopathic lower motor neuron palsy. This is characterised by sudden-onset paralysis or weakness of the muscles on one side of the face controlled by the facial nerve. Bell’s palsy is an idiopathic, presumed immune-mediated phenomenon, possibly with an infection as the inciting event. The patient was hospitalised and managed with Nasya, Mukhabhyanga and ksheeradhooma. Objective: To assess the efficacy of Nasya, Mukha abhyanga and ksheeradhooma in Ardita W.S.R to Bell’s palsy. Methodology: Study design: prospective, open-label, uncontrolled, incidental single-case study. A male patient aged 20-years has presented with chief close the right eye, absence of forehead wrinkling and difficulty in chewing food, persisting for the past two days. Based on the clinical presentation and Ayurvedic principles, the condition was diagnosed as Ardita and treated with Nasya by Anu Taila and Ksheerabala 101 Avartita Taila 4 ml in each nostril, followed by Mukha abhyanga and ksheeradhooma for 9 days. Shamanoushadi like balarishta and ekangaveera rasa continued for 15 days. Observation and results: The patient got Significant improvement in facial symmetry, eye closure, and masticatory function and relief in all symptoms without any residual weakness or deformity. Conclusion: Nasya with Ksheerabala 101 avartita taila, Mukha Abhyanga and Ksheera Dhooma, and shamana rasa rasayana showed promising results in Bell’s palsy (mukha Ardita).