The word neuropathy is derived from two parts: "neuro" referring to the nerve and "pathy" indicating disorder. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition occurring when injury or disease damages your peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nerves are the nerves that originate from your brain and spinal cord, and extend to your skin, muscles and tissues.
The peripheral nervous system relays information between your body and the brain in the form of electrical impulses. Each nerve is made up of many connected cells called neurons that transmit these impulses.
Nerves are the communication lines of the body. Electrical signals from the brain travel through the nerves and give instructions to the various body parts. The body receives information from the environment through the senses and sends this information to the brain via the nerves. However, damage to the nerves disrupts this which results in the condition called peripheral neuropathy and its various symptoms.
Neuropathy Symptoms
Although the severity may vary among sufferers, the painful feeling in hands or feet is the most common neuropathy symptom. Do not think that the pain is not a serious problem as it may prevent you from even touching something.
In several severe cases, damages can have significant effects on the autonomic nerves and it may lead to some changes in the blood pressure. As a consequence, you may experience dizziness or lightheadedness.
Neuropathy is not a fatal disease and you can get rid of it immediately at home by making some changes in diet. However, when the symptoms do not disappear after many days, you had better have yourself examined by doctors so as to come up with the best treatment.
Natural Home Remedies for Neuropathy
1. Lavender
Lavender is one of the best natural home remedies for neuropathy thanks to its natural pain-killing quality. Besides, it is also strongly anti-inflammatory, which means that lavender can effectively prevent inflammation and swelling in the nerves. The aromatic smell of lavender is a great plus since it enables you to relax and get rid of anxiety. You should take advantage of lavender oil. Get some drops of the oil and rub it over the areas affected by neuropathy to get rid of its pain quickly. You can repeat applying 2-3 times on a daily basis.
2. Soy
For those who suffer from neuropathy due to nutritional deficiency, soy is one of the most suitable home remedies for neuropathy for them. It is full of vitamin B6 that is believed to deal with the pain caused by neuropathy effectively[5]. Besides, when consumed, soy can stimulate the production of serotonin in the nervous system. This can make you become happier and of course, painless.
3. Rosemary
With antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, rosemary is a great natural home remedy for neuropathy. It can eliminate the painful feeling almost instantly and limit the muscle spasms. Another benefit of rosemary is to strengthen your respiratory system. To make the application easier, you should purchase rosemary oil. Rub several drops of it over the painful areas in your feet or hands a few times per day to get rid of neuropathy.
4. Peppermint
Known as a natural pain killer, peppermint proudly takes a spot in the list of top natural home remedies for neuropathy. Its nutrients can help improve the blood circulation inside the body and the more blood is carried to the feet and hands, the less painful you feel. In addition, it is super effective in putting the muscle spasms under control. You can consume the tea from mixing peppermint leaves with boiling water. Or if you do not have much time, simply rub the leaves over the areas affected by neuropathy.
5. Broccoli
Besides vitamin B, you need other kinds of vitamin to speed up the neuropathy treatment. For example, vitamin C which is crucial for a strong immune system can protect your nerve from being inflamed. Therefore, broccoli that is rich of vitamin C can be considered as one of the most effective natural home remedies for neuropathy and you are strongly recommended to bring it more frequently in daily cooking.
6. Banana
Another great source of vitamin B6 is banana – one of the best natural home remedies for neuropathy. There are many well-known advantages in a small banana and now, you are suggested to consume it several times per day to get rid of neuropathy and its annoying symptoms.