Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Promise and Comfort for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia, inflammation of the trigeminal nerve, often called the “suicide disease” because of its terrible pain, may find its solution in an unlikely source: extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). A groundbreaking study published in Nutrition Research offers hope to those suffering from this debilitating condition, suggesting that a simple dietary intervention can provide significant relief.

Participants who took EVOO showed a significant decrease in pain interference with general function and in pain severity. EVOO intake was associated with better emotional and physical function. 90% of participants were able to consistently consume the recommended 60 mL (4 tablespoons) of EVOO every day.

EVOO intake improved the participants' overall diet quality, especially in fatty acid composition. No serious side effects were reported.

This 16-week feasibility study, conducted by Moreno et al., included 52 women with trigeminal neuralgia, inflammation of the trigeminal nerve.

The participants were randomly assigned to consume 60 mL of EVOO daily or to keep their usual diet for 12 weeks, after a 4-week baseline period. The researchers assessed pain levels, quality of life and diet quality during the study.

Dr. Wendy J. Dahl, the study's corresponding author, explained: “We wanted to examine whether a simple dietary intervention like EVOO could offer relief to those suffering from this incredibly painful condition. The results are encouraging and warrant further investigation.”

Trigeminal neuralgia, inflammation of the trigeminal nerve, is characterized by severe, shooting facial pain that can be triggered by simple activities like eating, talking or even a light touch. Conventional treatments often involve strong drugs with significant side effects or invasive surgical procedures. The potential of EVOO as a natural, food-based intervention is especially exciting given its safety profile and additional health benefits.

EVOO is rich in oleic acid and polyphenols, compounds that may support nerve health and reduce inflammation. Dr. Dahl noted: “We believe that the neuroprotective properties of EVOO, especially its ability to support myelin production and reduce inflammation, may be the key to its pain-relieving effects in the trigeminal nerves.”

Another option is targeted B12 injections, which have also demonstrated excellent pain relief compared with the standard drug carbamazepine.

For those living with the agonizing pain of trigeminal neuralgia, the prospect of a safe, natural and accessible treatment is very exciting. Extra virgin olive oil, with its potential to reduce pain and improve quality of life, offers new hope in managing this challenging condition.

Sources:

 Moreno ML, et al. "Daily olive oil intake is feasible to reduce trigeminal neuralgia facial pain: A pilot study." Nutrition Research. 2024;123:101-110

Zhou CS, et al. "Comparative study on treatment of trigeminal neuralgia with acupoint injection of Vit B12 and carbamazepine." Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2007;27(9):668-70