Bell’s palsy is a temporary form of facial paralysis caused by damage or trauma to the facial nerves. The condition disrupts the function of the facial nerve, which interrupts the messages that the brain sends to the facial muscles, resulting in facial weakness or paralysis.
Bell’s palsy natural treatments can help strengthen the facial nerve and reduce pain. The condition is often associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, injury, Lyme disease, and multiple sclerosis. Bell’s palsy natural remedies can work to reduce Bell’s palsy symptoms.
Bell’s palsy symptoms:
- The onset of weakness or paralysis in one side of the face that occurs suddenly or over a 48-hour period
- Facial drooping in the corner of the mouth
- Drooling and changes in the amount of saliva produced
- Increased sensitivity to sound
- Headache
- Pain around the jaw
- Pain behind the ear
- Decreased ability to taste
- Changes in quantity of tears produced
- Inability to close an eyelid
Bell’s palsy natural remedies
1. Massage
Many patients suffering from the condition find relief through massage therapy. Visit a licensed massage therapist with experience in Bell’s palsy treatment and book a full-body appointment.
A good read: Advantages of massage therapy
2. Acupuncture
Acupuncture stimulates the nerves and muscles, which can improve symptoms. Find an acupuncturist with experience in treating Bell’s palsy.
3. Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is associated with eye health and nervous system health, which makes it an important part of Bell’s palsy natural treatment. Foods rich in Vitamin B6 include chickpeas, potatoes, bananas, pistachios, avocado, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds.
Read also: Risks, symptoms and ways to treat B12 deficiency
4. Meditation
Guided meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can help relieve muscle tension and chronic pain by reducing stress. Taking a few minutes each day to slow down and focus on positive energy may help relieve anxiety.
5. Zinc
Zinc is known for its ability to heal wounds and boost immune system response. Adding zinc-rich foods to your diet can help your body heal from the underlying condition that is causing your symptoms. Try spinach, kidney beans, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds and watermelon seeds.
6. Castor oil
Castor oil is known to help improve circulation, prevent the growth of bacteria and support the lymphatic system. Using a castor oil compress may help with healing by enhancing blood flow to the affected areas. Warm one tablespoon of castor oil and massage it onto your face. Cover your face with a warm, damp washcloth and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Use the compress twice a day.
7. Bell’s palsy exercises
Try visiting a physical therapist who has experience working with Bell’s palsy patients. They can provide you with personalised facial exercises that will help improve nerve functioning. Simple exercises may include wrinkling your nose, smiling wide, frowning and raising your eyebrows.
8. Elderberry
Elderberry work as a Bell’s palsy natural remedy thanks to its strong anti-viral properties. It can be used to fight and inflammation and illness. Elderberry is available in different forms, including tea, syrup, ointments, lozenges and pills.
9. Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb that can help boost immune system function and reduce inflammation. Choose a high-quality liquid Echinacea supplement and take 10 milligrams per one kilogram of body weight, for 10 days to help alleviate symptoms.
10. Moist heat
A warm cloth can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with Bell’s palsy. Add an essential oil such as lavender, rose, ylang ylang or chamomile to a warm cloth and use the compress whenever pain appears or you want to relieve tension.
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