Homoeopathic Remedies for Bell’s Palsy

Also indexed as: Facial Muscle Paralysis

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When Bell’s palsy occurs, one side of the face becomes paralyzed, flat, and rigid; as a result, the other side (not paralyzed) may feel twisted and uncomfortable. The cause is not well-understood, but a person with these symptoms should be examined by a physician, to rule out other neurological problems. Although uncomfortable and disconcerting, this condition usually resolves itself in time, although it may take many months. Homoeopathic remedies can sometimes bring relief. For a remedy that suits the individual more specifically, see a homoeopathic physician.

For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also “Using Homoeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homoeopathy?

Aconitum napellus: When one side of a person’s face becomes paralyzed, especially after being exposed to wind or cold air, this remedy may be helpful. A feeling of fear and agitation and a sudden onset of symptoms are strong indications for Aconitum napellus.

Agaricus: This remedy may be indicated in Bell’s palsy when the facial muscles on one side are stiff, and grimacing or twitching occurs in other parts of the face. People who need this remedy are often excitable, with senses that are overacute. Many people who need this remedy have deep anxiety about their health.

Cadmium sulphuratum: Facial paralysis (usually left-sided) that starts after exposure to wind, and is accompanied by chilliness or overwhelming weakness, suggests a need for this remedy. The person’s mouth may look distorted, and completely closing one of the eyes often is impossible.

Causticum: This remedy can be helpful when facial paralysis has developed gradually (most often on the right side). Opening and closing the mouth can be difficult, and the person may accidentally bite the tongue or the inside of the cheek. The person may be weak but restless, and tends to feel best when keeping warm.

Cocculus: One-sided facial paralysis, with pain or tension felt in the other cheek, especially when opening the mouth, suggests a need for this remedy. Weakness, dizziness, or numbness are other indications. The person may feel worse from lack of sleep or from being emotionally upset.

Dulcamara: This remedy may be indicated when a person has one-sided facial paralysis that makes it difficult to speak. Dulcamara is indicated in many conditions that develop after exposure to cold and dampness, especially after chills in rainy weather. People who need this remedy are often inclined toward sinusitis, allergies, and back pain.

Nux vomica: One-sided facial paralysis (more often on the left) in a person who is irritable, impatient, and hypersensitive to odours, sounds, and light may indicate a need for this remedy. Cramping and constricting feelings may be felt, and problems may be worse from cold.

Platina (also called Platinum): This remedy may be indicated for painless paralysis of the face, with facial distortion that raises one eyebrow or creates a “haughty” look. The person may also experience numbness in the lips and cheeks, or other body parts.

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Homoeopathy Dosage Directions

Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually printed on the label.

Many homoeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be required a few times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated a few times a day; and in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.

If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.

For more information, including references, see What is Homoeopathy? and Understanding Homoeopathic Potencies.

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