Ardita (Facial Paralysis)

Ardita, in Ayurveda, refers to facial paralysis caused by vitiation of Vata dosha affecting the facial (seventh cranial) nerve. It presents as one?sided facial weakness, drooping of the mouth, inability to fully close the eye, and distorted facial expressions, closely resembling Bell’s palsy in modern medicine. The condition is triggered by exposure to cold, stress, infections, or sudden nerve inflammation and may impair talking, smiling, blinking, and in some cases taste and tear production.

Pathophysiology and Ayurvedic view

Ayurvedic texts classify Ardita among the 80 Nanatmaja Vata?vibhajanas, linking it to obstruction of nerves and blood channels in the face by aggravated Vata. This blockade weakens the facial muscles and leads to deviation of half of the face toward the unaffected side.

Modern correlation and care

Modern medicine often labels it as Bell’s palsy or facial nerve palsy, treating it with corticosteroids, antivirals, physiotherapy, and occasionally surgery. Ayurveda complements this with localized therapies such as abhyanga (oil massage), snehapana, swedana, and selected herbal formulations to pacify Vata and restore nerve?muscle function.