Issue : 01 DOI :
INTERNATIONAL
JOURNAL
OF
DIAGNOSTICS
AND
RESEARCH
Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00053 |ISSN :2584-2757
85
Abstract
Ardita, a Vata-dominant disorder described in Ayurveda, manifests as unilateral facial distortion and
functional impairment, aligning closely with modern descriptions of facial palsy, especially Bell’s palsy.
The classical Ayurvedic texts categorize Ardita under Nanatmaja Vata Vyadhi, emphasizing Vata’s central
role in disease pathology. Nidanas such as excessive yawning, shouting, head trauma, and improper
therapeutic procedures like early Nasya after a head bath contribute to the vitiation of Vata and subsequent
manifestation of Ardita. The condition evolves either due to Dhatukshaya (tissue depletion) or
Margavarana (channel obstruction), leading to localized symptoms in the half-face region. Clinical
features include facial deviation, impaired speech, fixed eyes, salivation, and loss of sensory-motor
control. Ayurvedic literature offers a rich diagnostic framework, identifying prognostic factors and
distinguishing between Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja, and mixed types of Ardita. Management emphasizes
Snehana, Swedana, Nasya, and Basti, with tailored therapies based on Dosha predominance and
chronicity. Modern parallels highlight the correlation between lower motor neuron lesions and Ayurvedic
descriptions of Ardita, especially in Bell’s palsy cases, which share etiological factors like viral
reactivation and neuropathy. This critical review explores the comprehensive Ayurvedic understanding of
Ardita alongside its modern correlates, advocating for integrative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Early intervention, based on Dosha analysis and underlying pathophysiology, is essential to prevent
complications such as synkinesis and residual facial dysfunction.
Keywords : Ardita, Facial Palsy, Bell’s Palsy, Vata Vyadhi, Vatavyadhi, Ayurveda Diagnosis, Ayurvedic
Management, Facial Nerve Paralysis, Synkinesis, Panchakarma Therapy.
P
ISSN No. : 2584-2757
Volume : 02
Issue : 04
DOI
: 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 6 0 3 2892
Reg. No. : MAHA-703/16(NAG)
Year of Establishment – 2016
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH
Corresponding author: Dr.Asmita Nikam
Article Info: Published on : 15/07/2025
Impact Factor : 1.013
A Critical Ayurvedic Diagnostic Review On Ardita
Dr. Asmita Nikam
1
, Dr. Savita Balkar
2
, Dr. Santosh Chavan
3
1
Third Year PG, Department of Rogidan Evum Vikriti Vidnyan, D. Y. Patil School of Ayurveda, Navi Mumbai,
Maharashtra, India.
2
Associate Professor , Department of Rogidan Evum Vikriti Vidnyan, D. Y. Patil School of Ayurveda, Navi
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
3
HOD, Department of Rogidan Evum Vikriti Vidnyan, D. Y. Patil School of Ayurveda, Navi
Mumbai,Maharashtra, India.
Cite this article as: - Dr. Asmita Nikam (2025) ; A Critical Ayurvedic Diagnostic Review On Ardita;Inter.J.Dignostics and
Research 2 (3) 85-90, DOI : 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 6 0 3 2892
G
A
R
V
Issue : 04
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00053 |ISSN :2584-2757
86
Introduction :
Ardita, a disorder primarily affecting half of the
face, is extensively discussed in Ayurvedic
literature and is classified under the spectrum of
Vata Vyadhi, the disorders arising due to deranged
Vata Dosha. The term Ardita is derived from the
root "Ard" which conveys the meaning "to afflict or
strike"
[1]
. In the context of modern medicine, Ardita
closely resembles facial palsy, particularly Bell’s
palsy, an idiopathic condition characterized by
sudden onset of unilateral facial paralysis due to
dysfunction of the facial nerve
[2]
. This review
explores the Ayurvedic diagnostic concepts of
Ardita, encompassing its etiology, pathogenesis,
symptomatology, and treatment while integrating
comparative insights from modern neurology.
Etymological and Conceptual Basis :
The word "Ardita" stems from the Sanskrit root
"Ardana", denoting discomfort, pain, or affliction1.
It is included among the eighty types of Nanatmaja
Vata Vyadhi, indicating its origin predominantly
from the vitiation of Vata Dosha
[3]
. Acharya
Vagbhata synonymously refers to Ardita as
"Ekayama", suggesting its one-sided facial
presentation
[4]
.The central role of Vata in disease
manifestation is repeatedly emphasized in
Ayurvedic texts. Vata is responsible for movement,
neural communication, and sensory-motor
integration
[5]
. Any derangement in Vata's
equilibrium, especially in its upward-moving
subtype (Urdhwagata Vata), leads to conditions
like Ardita which present with distortion and
dysfunction in the facial region
[6]
.
Nidana (Etiological Factors) :
Though Acharya Charaka does not list explicit
causes for Ardita, the general causes of Vata
Vyadhi are considered applicable
[7]
. Acharya
Sushruta and Vagbhata provide a more detailed
description. Sushruta identifies
Vulnerable Populations: pregnant women
(Garbhini), postnatal women (Sutika), children
(Bala), elderly (Vriddha), and individuals with
blood loss (Raktakshaya) or weakness (Ksheena)—
as more susceptible to Ardita
[8]
. Contributory
lifestyle factors include:
Excessive laughter (Atihasanam)
Yawning (Atijrumbhana)
Speaking loudly (Uchchaih Prabhshana)
Carrying heavy loads on the head
(Shirasobharaharanam)
Chewing hard substances (Kathina
Charvana)
Sleeping on irregular surfaces (Vishama
Shayana)
[9]
Improper administration of Panchakarma therapies
like Nasya immediately after head bath is also cited
as a cause
[10]
.
Purvarupa (Prodromal Symptoms)
Sushruta elaborates the premonitory signs as:
Tremors (Vepathu)
Numbness of skin (Tvaka Supti)
Pricking pain (Toda)
Lockjaw (Hanugraha)
Muddy vision (Netra Avilata)
[11]
These symptoms indicate early involvement of
Vata in upward pathways and sensory organs.
Samprapti (Pathogenesis) :
The pathogenesis of Ardita is rooted in aggravation
of Vata either due to Dhatukshaya (tissue
depletion) or Margavarana (obstruction of
Issue : 04
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00053 |ISSN :2584-2757
87
channels). The vitiated Vata localizes in the
Mukhaardha Pradesh (half-face region), especially
affecting the Sira (head) and Indriyas (sense
organs), leading to symptoms of distortion
[12]
.
Samprapti Ghataka (Pathological Factors):
Dosha: Predominantly Vata, though
sometimes Tridosha involvement is noted
Dushya: Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa
Srotas: Rasa, Rakta, Mamsavaha
Rogamarga: Madhyama (neuromuscular
pathway)
Udbhava Sthana: Pakwashaya (colon)
Vyaktasthana: Half of the face
[13]
Rupa (Clinical Features):
According to Ayurvedic Texts:
Charaka describes the following features
[14]
:
Distortion of half the face
(Ardhmukhavakrata)
Deviation of the mouth, nose, brow, and
chin
Fixed eyes (Stabdha Netra)
Impaired speech (Samutkshipta Kala Vak)
Difficulty in sneezing (Kshavathu Nigraha)
Sushruta adds
[15]
:
Neck rotation (Grivapavartanam)
Eye deformity (Netra Vikriti)
Pain in chin, teeth, and jaw (Vedana)
Vagbhata describes additional signs such as:
Numbness (Supti)
Memory loss (Smriti Nasha)
Delirium (Moha)
[16]
Classification by Dosha
1. Vataja Ardita – Pain, tremors, lockjaw,
salivation
2. Pittaja Ardita – Fever, thirst, facial
discoloration
3. Kaphaja Ardita – Stiffness and swelling in
face and neck
[17]
4. Mishrita Ardita – Combination of above
[18]
Sadhyasadhyata (Prognosis) :
Ardita is considered difficult to cure
(Dushchikitsya), especially when associated with
muscle and tissue wasting. Sushruta categorically
states that long-standing Ardita (over three years),
fixed gaze (Animishakshi), and continuous distorted
speech (Avyaktabhashi) indicate incurability
[19]
.
Chikitsa (Management) :
Treatment is planned based on the underlying
cause-either Dhatukshaya or Margavarana.
General Line of Treatment:
Snehana (oleation)
Swedana (fomentation)
Nasya (nasal therapy)
Basti (medicated enema)
Dhoompana (medicated smoking)
[20]
Issue : 04
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00053 |ISSN :2584-2757
88
Specific Therapies:
Acharya
Suggested Therapies
Charaka
Navana, Murdhni Taila, Nadi
Swedana, Upanaha
[21]
Sushruta
Shirobasti, Sneha Nasya,
Snigdha Dhoompana
[22]
Vagbhata
Shirotarpana, Vamana (if
associated with Shopha),
Siravyadha (if Raga, Daha)
[23]
Bhavaprakasha
Basti with Rasona, Shirobasti for
Vataja, Kavala and Ghrita Basti
for Pittaja, Brimhana after
Kaphakshaya
[24]
Chakradatta
Narayana Taila Abhyanga,
Autarbhaaktika Ghrita
[25]
Vangasena
Decoction of Dashmoola, milk,
meat soup, Shita Sneha in
Pittaja, Tikshna Nasya in
Kaphaja
[26]
Modern Correlation: Ardita and Facial Palsy :
In modern medicine, Ardita closely resembles
lower motor neuron type of facial palsy. Bell’s
palsy, the most common type, is characterized by
sudden onset of unilateral facial weakness due to
inflammation or viral reactivation (HSV or VZV)
in the geniculate ganglion
[27]
.
Clinical Features:
Asymmetry of face
Inability to close eye
Drooling from mouth corner
Altered taste sensation
Hyperacusis
[28]
Diagnostic Tools:
House-Brackmann Grading System
Schirmer’s test
MRI, CT, EMG
Electrogustometry
[29]
Sequelae and Prognosis
Approximately 80–85% of patients recover
spontaneously within 3 months. However, sequelae
like synkinesis, jaw-winking, and crocodile tears
may develop in untreated or chronic cases
[30]
.
Discussion
The classical description of Ardita bears
remarkable similarity to lower motor neuron facial
palsy, especially in terms of symptoms like
unilateral facial deviation, fixed eye, impaired
speech, and salivation. The Ayurvedic approach
provides a holistic and constitutional treatment
strategy based on Dosha dominance, chronicity,
and strength of the patient. Integration with modern
understanding supports better prognosis and
preventive care.
Conclusion
Ardita is a complex condition categorized under
Vata Vyadhi in Ayurveda. Its clinical similarity
with Bell’s palsy highlights the wisdom of classical
texts in diagnosing neuromuscular disorders
centuries before modern neurology. The Ayurvedic
approach emphasizes both systemic and local
treatment strategies—offering long-term relief and
minimizing complications. Recognition of early
signs, understanding the Dosha involvement, and
timely application of therapies like Snehana,
Nasya, and Basti are key to effective management.
Issue : 04
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00053 |ISSN :2584-2757
89
References :
1. Shabda Kalpadruma. Varanasi:
Chaukhambha Sanskrit Series; 2016. p. 378.
2. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine.
20th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2018.
Vol 2, Ch 433, p. 3169.
3. Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana, Ch. 20, Ver.
11. Varanasi: Chowkhamba Krishnadas
Academy; 2016. p. 394.
4. Astanga Hridaya, Nidanasthana, Ch.15,
Ver. 37. Varanasi: Chaukhambha
Prakashana; 2016. p. 378.
5. Charaka Samhita, Chikitsasthana, Ch.28,
Ver. 3. Varanasi: Chowkhamba Krishnadas
Academy; 2016. p. 19.
6. Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana, Ch. 17, Ver.
12. p. 350.
7. Sushruta Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Ch.1,
Ver. 68. Delhi: Chaukhamba Sanskrit
Pratishthan; 2007. p. 509.
8. Ibid. Ver. 71–72. p. 510.
9. Astanga Hridaya, Chikitsa Sthana, Ch.15,
Ver. 32–33. p. 154.
10. Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Ch.28,
Ver. 38–42. p. 33.
11. Ibid. Ver. 77–78. p. 926.
12. Sushruta Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Ch.5,
Ver. 22. p. 256.
13. Bhavaprakasha, Chikitsasthana, Ch.24, Ver.
65–66. p. 238.
14. Vangasena Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Ch.28,
Ver.556. p. 445.
15. API Textbook of Medicine. Vol 2, Part 20,
Ch.6. p. 1907–1908.
16. BD Chaurasia’s Human Anatomy. Vol 3.
6th ed. p. 67.
17. Clinical Methods. 3rd ed. Ch. 62.
18. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg.
1985;93(2):146–147.
19. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews. Vol
11, No.12, Dec 2013. p. 33–44.
20. Astanga Hridaya, Chikitsa Sthana, Ch.5,
Ver. 43. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit
Sansthan; 2018. p. 725.
21. Bhavaprakasha, Chikitsasthana, Ch.24, Ver.
68–73. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit
Bhavana; 2018. p. 239.
22. Chakradatta, Ch.22, Ver. 17–18. Varanasi:
Chaukhambha Sanskrit Bhavana; 2018. p.
134.
Issue : 04
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTICS AND RESEARCH [ISSN No.: 2584-2757]
Volume : 02
Copyright @ : - Dr.Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research IJDRMSID00053 |ISSN :2584-2757
90
23. Vangasena Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Ch.28,
Ver. 560–566. Varanasi: Chowkhamba
Sanskrit Series; 2004. p. 447.
24. API Textbook of Medicine. Vol. 2, Part 20,
Ch.6. New Delhi: Jaypee Brothers Medical
Publishers; 2012. p. 1907.
25. Vivera. The effectiveness of Ayurvedic oil-
based nasal instillation (Nasya) medicines
for the treatment of facial paralysis (Ardita):
A systematic review protocol. JBI Database
of Systematic Reviews and Implementation
Reports. 2013;11(12):33–44.
26. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine.
20th ed. Vol. 2, Part 13, Ch. 433. New
York: McGraw-Hill; 2018. p. 3169.
27. BD Chaurasia’s Human Anatomy. Vol. 3,
Section 3, Ch.2. 6th ed. New Delhi: CBS
Publishers; 2013. p. 67.
28. API Textbook of Medicine. Vol. 2, Part 20,
Ch.6. New Delhi: Jaypee Brothers Medical
Publishers; 2012. p. 1908.
29. House JW, Brackmann DE. Facial nerve
grading system. Otolaryngology—Head and
Neck Surgery. 1985;93(2):146–147.
30. H Kenneth Walker, W Dallas Hall, J Willis
Hurst. Clinical Methods: The History,
Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd
ed. Boston: Butterworths; 1990. Ch.62.
ISSN: 2584-2757
DOI: 1 0 . 5 2 8 1 / z e n o d o . 1 6 0 3 2892
Dr. Asmita Nikam Inter. J.Digno. and Research
This work is licensed under Creative
Commons Attribution 4.0 License
Submission Link : http://www.ijdrindia.com
Benefits of Publishing with us
Fast peer review process
Global archiving of the articles
Unrestricted open online access
Author retains copyright
Unique DOI for all articles
https://ijdrindia.com