What’s Your Headache Telling You?
(Health Secrets) Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects people in all walks of life. Estimations are that 20 million Americans and 60% of diabetics suffer from peripheral neuropathy. The good news is that many individuals find relief using natural remedies.
The term peripheral neuropathy describes damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This can result in pain, loss of feeling, and inability to control muscles. As with other conditions, there is no “one size fits all” remedy for those suffering from this malady, and treatment may vary depending on the cause and severity.
There are hundreds of different kinds of neuropathy. Symptoms of the disease include burning, tingling, weakness, numbness, paralysis, and dull to excruciating pain – especially in the extremities.
Although many neuropathies have no known causes, neuropathy is often associated with another condition, the primary example being diabetes. HIV, shingles, toxins, autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, carpal tunnel syndrome, and malnutrition are also associated with neuropathy, as are Statin drugs and chemotherapy.
Diet is critical when addressing peripheral neuropathy, especially in diabetics. Alcohol and tobacco should be eliminated at all costs. Other foods to be avoided include sugar, processed foods, fast foods, junk foods, sodas of all types, foods sprayed with pesticides, and trans-fatty acids. Sweeteners and additives contained in diet soda and processed foods such as MSG and aspartame can negatively impact the nervous system. Individuals suffering from peripheral neuropathy should have a balanced intake of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids.
Light exercise is a very important part in treating neuropathy. It helps to control blood sugar, promotes circulation, and can slow the nerve damage resulting from this condition. Keep in mind, however, that exercises such as running or walking may actually be detrimental as they may cause foot injury. Swimming or riding a stationary bike may be preferable. After exercising, always check your feet for irritation, blisters or sores. If any of these are apparent, treat them immediately, as neglecting them could result in infection.
In addition to proper diet and exercise, the herbs and supplements listed below can help to give relief by oxygenating cells, reducing inflammation, and dispelling toxic free radicals:
*Alpha Lipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant used in Europe to treat peripheral nerve degeneration caused by diabetes. It is a sulfur-containing fatty acid found in each cell of the body which generates energy. The suggested dosage is 1,200 to 1,800 mgs in divided doses daily.
*N-Acetyl Cysteine helps detoxify the body by helping it produce glutathione.
*Magnesium soothes the nervous system. The recommended dosage is 800 mgs in two divided doses.
*A vitamin B6 deficiency can aggravate or even be the cause of neuropathic pain. This vitamin becomes more effective when taken with B-complex vitamins. The suggested dosage is 100 mgs per day, but it is important not to exceed this amount.
*Cayenne massaged into the skin has been known to relieve neuropathic pain.
*Skullcap soothes the entire nervous system. The suggested dosage is fifteen drops of tincture in a glass of water three to six times a day or as needed for pain.
*Evening primrose oil can be effective in preventing nerve damage and in keeping the condition from getting worse.
*Colloidal silver may help nerves regenerate. Studies in Hungary have found specific silver receptors on human nerve tissue.
*Digestive enzymes taken two or three times a day on an empty stomach help remove plaque and restore circulation to extremities.
Castor oil packs can provide symptomatic relief for some people. Massage, biofeedback, acupuncture, and relaxation therapy have also been shown to be effective.
For more information:
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/peripheralneuropathy/peripheralneu…
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/peripheral-neuropathy-002604.htm
Published with permission from AlignLife. Original article link is here.
