Bell's palsy, otherwise known as idiopathic palsy, involves temporary weakness of the facial nerve. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, approximately 40,000 Americans suffer from the condition annually. Because many health problems have similar symptoms, it's essential that you see a doctor to make a diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with Bell's palsy, clove oil may help treat symptoms associated with the disorder.
Bell's Palsy
Named after the 19th century Scottish physician Sir Charles Bell, Bell's palsy is an inflammation of the cranial nerve of the face. While the exact cause of the inflammation remains unclear, scientists theorize that viral infections, particularly herpes simplex type 1, may produce the onset of the condition. Symptoms of Bell's palsy include paralysis, drooling, intense pain, an inability to whistle and close your eye on the affected side, headache, impaired speech, difficulty eating and sensitivity to sound.
Clove Oil
Clove, well-known as a culinary spice, is native to the Maluku Islands and cultivated in Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Madagascar and Brazil. The small evergreen tree bears gray bark, shiny leaves and cluster-like flowers. The oil extracted from the flowers and leaves of the clove tree constitutes its medicinal component. Eugenol, the active ingredient of clove's essential oil, provides antiseptic and anesthetic properties.
Clove Oil Benefits
Because of eugenol's anti-inflammatory and analgesic qualities, clove oil appears to offer some relief for pain and swelling associated with Bell's palsy. Additionally, clove oil seems to increase the efficacy of acyclovir, a medication prescribed to treat the viral infections underlying Bell's palsy. Phyllis A. Balch, certified nutritional consultant and author of the book "Prescription for Herbal Healing," recommends taking five to 10 drops of clove essential oil mixed with one-quarter cup of water three times per day for Bell's palsy cases.
Considerations
Clove oil is strong; dilute it in water or olive oil. It can cause stomach upset, fluid imbalances, seizures and liver damage when used undiluted. Do not give clove oil to children under age 6. Adults should avoid using clove oil regularly in the mouth as it can cause skin, gum and tooth pulp damage. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid clove oil.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Bell's Palsy Fact Sheet
- MayoClinic.com: Bell's Palsy: Symptoms
- MedlinePlus.com: Clove
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
