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Fact Check: Can Sheesham leaves in oil cure paralysis in just 3 days?
Quick Take
A social media post claims that Sheesham leaves in oil can cure paralysis in just 3 days. After fact checking, we rated this claim as false.
The Claim
A viral Instagram video claims that any type of paralysis or ‘lakwa‘ can be completely cured at home in just 3 days. The post suggests using Sheesham leaves boiled in sesame or olive oil and applied to the affected area.
Fact Check
Can paralysis be cured at home with oil?
No, paralysis cannot be cured at home using oils. Paralysis happens when communication between the brain and muscles is disrupted—this can be due to a stroke, spinal injury, nerve damage, or other medical conditions. These causes require professional medical treatment such as physiotherapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery. Oils, whether herbal or not, may help with massage and muscle stiffness, but they cannot repair nerve damage or restore movement on their own.
To assess the claim, we consulted Dr Mohit Sandhu, Ayurvedic Practitioner at AgniShalya Ayurvedic Hospital and Research Centre, Hamirpur. He firmly dismisses the idea to cure paralysis in just 2 or 3 minutes of oil massage, or even a few days, by applying oil, whether it contains sheesham leaves or not. “That’s not how paralysis works, not even according to Ayurveda,” he says. Dr Sandhu explains that while certain medicated oils like Mahanarayan tail or Ksheerabala tail may be used in Ayurvedic treatments, their role is to support recovery by improving circulation and easing stiffness when combined with massage (Abhyanga) and steam therapy (Swedana). In very rare and early-stage cases, such as mild Bell’s palsy or functional paralysis, some minor movement may return temporarily, but this is only short-term relief, not a cure.
He adds that Ayurveda approaches paralysis through a structured, long-term protocol involving internal and external oleation (Snehana), medicated enemas (Basti), nasal therapy (Nasya), and calming treatments like Shirodhara and Shirobasti. Therapies such as Rasayana for nerve regeneration and procedures like Marma Chikitsa or Agnikarma may also be included. “These treatments aim to manage symptoms and support nerve function over time. Claims of instant or three-day cures are misleading and have no basis in classical Ayurvedic texts or clinical practice,” Dr Sandhu concludes.
We also spoke to Dr Muskan Thakur, Ayurvedic Practitioner from Indore, to understand if an oil massage alone can completely cure paralysis in just 3 days. She firmly denies this, stating, “Classical Ayurvedic texts and scientific evidence do not support such claims.” According to her, paralysis, or Pakshaghat in Ayurveda, is a serious condition caused by an aggravated Vata dosha, which affects the nervous system. Treatment involves a gradual, multi-step process including medicated oil massages (Abhyanga), internal herbal medicines, Panchakarma therapies like Pizhichil and Basti, and appropriate lifestyle changes. Oils such as Mahanarayana Tail and Dhanwantaram Tail can help support nerve function over time, but they cannot provide an instant cure.
Dr Thakur also stresses that the idea of one oil curing all types of paralysis contradicts the core Ayurvedic principle of personalised treatment, which considers a person’s dosha, dhatu, and roga (imbalance, tissues, and disease). “Such one-size-fits-all claims are misleading and go against the very foundation of Ayurveda. People should be cautious before trusting such advice on social media,” she concludes.
Do Sheesham leaves have any proven benefits for paralysis?
No, there is no scientific proof that sheesham leaves can cure paralysis. While Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo) is used in Ayurveda for managing pain and inflammation, this is not the same as curing or reversing paralysis. A 2021 animal study showed that extracts from Sheesham leaves might help improve memory and reduce brain inflammation in rats with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms, but this has no connection to paralysis. So far, no clinical research supports the idea that Sheesham leaves, whether raw or boiled in oil, can heal nerve damage or restore lost muscle control. Such claims remain unverified and misleading.
Why is the “3-day cure” claim dangerous?
Because it spreads false hope and may stop people from seeking real help. Paralysis, especially after a stroke, needs urgent medical care to prevent lasting damage. Relying on home remedies like oil massages instead of going to a hospital or continuing physiotherapy can delay proper treatment. This delay could worsen the condition or make recovery much harder.
Dr Kunal Bahrani, Director and HOD of Neurology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, explains, “Paralysis, particularly due to stroke, is a critical condition that demands immediate and structured care. It results from a sudden interruption in blood flow to the brain, which can damage the regions responsible for movement. Managing it requires timely diagnosis, medical support, and regular rehabilitation. False information about quick fixes can be harmful as it may lead patients to skip essential treatment during the most crucial recovery window.”
How are paralysis and nerve damage usually treated?
They are managed with proper medical care, not home remedies. Recovery depends on the type and cause of paralysis. Treatment may include:
- Physiotherapy to help regain strength and movement
- Speech or occupational therapy if muscles used in talking or daily work are affected
- Medications to manage symptoms like pain, stiffness, or muscle spasms
- Surgery or assistive devices in some cases Ayurveda and other traditional therapies can support recovery, but they should not replace proper medical care.
Can a massage with herbal oils be helpful in any way for paralysis?
Yes, but only as supportive care, not as a cure. Gentle massage with warm oil may improve blood flow, reduce stiffness, and offer emotional comfort. Oils like sesame or medicated Ayurvedic oils are often used in post-stroke rehabilitation, but these are part of a broader treatment plan. On their own, simple oil massages are not enough to cure paralysis.
THIP Media Take
The claim that Sheesham leaf oil can cure all types of paralysis in 3 days is false. While massage with herbal oils may provide some relief, there is no scientific or medical evidence that it can cure paralysis. People with symptoms of paralysis should seek immediate medical attention. Relying on viral remedies can be harmful and delay life-saving care.
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