Herbal & Acupuncture Therapy for Facial Paralysis

Natural Therapy for Facial Paralysis: Proven Results from Kyung Hee University Study

10 Treatment Sessions Improve Spasms by 46%, Crocodile Tear Syndrome by 43%

A study conducted by the Facial Paralysis Center at Kyung Hee University Hospital confirmed the effectiveness of acupuncture, bee venom therapy, moxibustion, and herbal medicine in treating facial paralysis aftereffects. Analyzing 327 patients with sequelae lasting from 3 months to 2 years, the research found that after 10 intensive treatment sessions:

✔️ Facial spasms improved by 46%
✔️ Crocodile tear syndrome by 43%
✔️ Muscle contracture by 39%
✔️ Synkinesis (involuntary muscle movements) by 13%

Early Treatment Leads to Better Recovery

While most cases of facial paralysis resolve within 2–3 months, 20–25% of patients experience persistent symptoms beyond 3–6 months, including:

🔹 Spasms (involuntary muscle twitching)
🔹 Crocodile tear syndrome (uncontrolled tearing)
🔹 Muscle contracture (stiffened, shortened muscles)
🔹 Synkinesis (unintended muscle movements)

The study found that patients who received treatment within 1–2 years of onset showed the best recovery rates, emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Researchers warned that delayed treatment could reduce recovery potential, making immediate care essential for better outcomes.

Personalized Treatments for Long-Term Improvement

The Facial Paralysis Center at Kyung Hee University provides customized treatments, integrating:

✔️ Acupuncture & Electroacupuncture
✔️ Bee Venom Therapy (anti-inflammatory & nerve regeneration)
✔️ Cupping Therapy (improves blood flow)
✔️ Moxibustion & Herbal Medicine
✔️ Facial Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy

Notably, House-Brackmann Grade (a measure of facial asymmetry) improved from 2.53 to 1.90 after 10 treatment sessions, confirming the sustained benefits of holistic therapy.

Why Facial Paralysis Symptoms Worsen in Winter & Summer

Professor Baek Yong-hyun, who led the study, observed that winter and summer are peak seasons for worsening symptoms:

❄️ Winter: Cold air stiffens facial muscles & restricts blood circulation
🌞 Summer: Excessive air conditioning negatively affects nerves & muscles

Preventing Long-Term Facial Paralysis Effects

Professor Baek emphasized that patients with severe nerve damage, inadequate initial treatment, or underlying conditions (such as hypertension or diabetes) are at higher risk of long-term symptoms.

🚨 Misconceptions about spontaneous recovery often lead to lack of proper treatment, worsening the condition.

🩺 “Early diagnosis and intensive treatment are crucial. Timely intervention significantly increases the chances of full recovery,” he stated.

This study scientifically validates the effectiveness of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and holistic therapies in facial paralysis recovery, establishing a strong foundation for future treatment approaches.