For thousands of years, medical practitioners in the East have used natural remedies for a variety of health conditions, including the symptoms of neuropathy. Natural treatments for neuropathic pain are now gaining attention from those in the American medical community as well.
Natural Solutions for Neuropathy
Neuropathy natural remedies are among those being considered by patients who have had no success with, or do not want the side effects of, pharmaceutical drugs. Natural remedies can be safe and effective and can work to promote overall health. Remedies range from herbal and homeopathic to nutritional. Not every remedy works exactly the same for every person, so you may need to experiment to find what alleviates your symptoms the best.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is present in every cell in the body. This sulfur-containing fatty acid is needed to promote healthy body functions and produce energy. ALA converts blood sugar into energy and acts as a powerful antioxidant ridding the body of damaging free radicals.
According to Medical News Today, people suffering with peripheral neuropathy can find relief from painful symptoms with ALA. Studies indicate that a dose of 600 mg once daily can improve symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy. Some people may need to use ALA consistently for a period of up to six weeks before they see results.
ALA is widely available through online merchants such as Vitacost.com and can also be found in most health food stores.
Cayenne
Cayenne is also known as red pepper and is a fiery spice that is often used medicinally. Capsaicin is the chemical constituent that is responsible for the "hotness" of this pepper.
Capsaicin is a natural pain reliever that has been used for ages to help circulation, digestive problems and encourage appetite. According to Healthline, cayenne can help reduce the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy. Capsaicin is often added to gels, creams and oils to bring relief when rubbed on painful areas. Cayenne pepper can be added liberally to foods, taken mixed with water and lemon or as a supplement in a capsule form.
Creams and lotions with cayenne pepper can be found at most health food stores. Cayenne in liquid form is available at Herbspro and Lucky Vitamin carries cayenne in capsule form.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that the body uses for protein, fatty acid formation, new cell creation, clotting blood, supporting muscle and nerve function and creating energy for the body. According to Pharmacy Times, half of all Americans are magnesium deficient. The National Health Federation reports that diabetic peripheral neuropathy is worsened when patients have a magnesium deficiency. The recommended dose is 400mg twice a day.
While the best sources of magnesium come from foods such as nuts, legumes, whole grains, dark green vegetables, and seafood. Magnesium supplements are readily available in most health food stores.
Chiropractic Massage
According to Medical News Today, some people with various forms of neuropathy benefit immensely from regular chiropractic massage. Massage loosens tight muscles and helps with nerve connection and circulation while relaxing the whole body. Be sure to do some research before choosing a massage therapist, and ask your doctor for a recommendation. It is always best to find someone who is skilled in massage for neuropathy.
Find the Right Remedy for You
While there are many natural remedies being used to treat various forms of neuropathy, it is imperative that you find the right one for you. Trial and error is the best practice, and once you find a remedy that brings you relief, stick to it. Be patient with natural remedies as they can take a while to kick in and alleviate symptoms. As with any treatment, always be sure to check with your physician before taking a supplement or beginning therapy of any kind.
