Can CBD Help Treat Bell’s Palsy?
The causes of Bell’s palsy, the sudden weakness in the facial muscles, are not fully known. Though most cases resolves themselves within a few weeks, this does not always happen.
CBD may be helpful in treating symptoms of this disease through its anti-inflammatory and pain relief properties. It is also suggested that CBD is a neuroprotective antioxidant.
Cannabidiol offers a variety of health benefits (some of which are backed by research and others are currently just speculation). Studies have shown that it can help with diverse health conditions. Some people are looking to it as a possible treatment for Bell’s palsy.
Could it be a solution for idiopathic facial paralysis?
What Is Bell’s Palsy – Symptoms, Causes, Complications
Bell’s palsy is a condition characterized by sudden weakness in the facial muscles. It is typically located on only one side of the face. It can come on very quickly, often within hours or days.
The most noticeable symptom is facial drooping. This can be combined with drooling and other difficulties managing facial functions. People also experience pain, increased sensitivity, loss of taste and altered saliva and tear production.
The causes of Bell’s palsy are not fully known. However, it is frequently associated with viral infections. For example, chickenpox, Epstein-Barr, herpes, influenza and similar infections can cause it.
Most cases of Bell’s palsy resolve themselves within a few weeks. However, this does not always happen. Long-term complications can include permanent facial nerve damage, blindness and abnormal nerve growth.
How CBD Can Help – Pain Relief, Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
CBD may be able to help people with Bell’s palsy to treat the symptoms and prevent complications. These are some of the suspected benefits of CBD:
- Anti-Inflammatory: CBD is known to help lessen inflammation. This may help people with discomfort from the condition. Additionally, inflammation can often worsen muscular and nerve problems.
- Neuroprotective Antioxidant: Research suggests that CBD has neuroprotective antioxidant properties. In other words, it can protect the nervous system from oxidative stress. This may help people with Bell’s Palsy avoid more severe damage.
- Pain Relief: Finally, CBD has been observed to be an effective pain reliever. In fact, some researchers are exploring it as an alternative to opioids. It can help with jaw pain, headaches and other facial pain.
The Current State of Research
There is currently a lack of research on the relationship between CBD and Bell’s palsy. The benefits are mostly based on other research into other conditions. Therefore, there needs to be more research done before conclusions can be drawn about the impacts on Bell’s palsy.
