CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
BENEFICIAL HERBS
- Turmeric or white willow bark have anti-inflammatory properties, may be useful for carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Chickweed poultices can be applied externally for inflammation
- Devil’s claw has shown analgesic activity, anti-inflammatory activity and smooth muscle relaxant activity.
- Cayenne (capsicum) when applied externally causes increased blood flow to the area of application relieving sore muscles and inflammation.
- Rub in a lotion or oil containing capsicum, oil of wintergreen and thyme, or prickly ash berries. This can aid in pain relief and improve circulation to the muscles.
- Butcher’s broom may have therapeutic value in that it can cause blood vessels to narrow and help reduce inflammation
- Hawthorn helps clean the veins of unwanted deposits
- Ginko biloba is beneficial for improving blood circulation throughout the body and has been successful for problems related to poor circulation
- Eucalyptus liniments are soothing to sore, inflamed joints. Apply to affected area.
- Yucca and yarrow are helpful for reducing inflammation
- Bromelain which is an enzyme has the ability to lessen swelling and inflammation
DIETARY RECOMMENDATIONS
- Lose excess weight
- Cut down on salt and salty foods from your diet to help control fluid accumulation and swelling caused by edema.
NUTRIENT SUPPLEMENTATION
A well balanced diet is a more natural source of nutrients and it is best to get as much as possible from food. If you are not eating a varied mixture of the main food groups or foods high in a certain nutrient needed for your health situation then make up the remaining through vitamin and mineral supplementation.
- B vitamins are recommended for carpal tunnel syndrome. Take a B complex vitamin that includes the following vitamins as well as biotin which is also recommended:
- Vitamin B6: 50-200 milligrams
- Vitamin B2: 100 milligrams
- Vitamin B12: 1000 micrograms daily in tablet form dissolved under the tongue
- Folic acid: 800 micrograms
In some cases, herbal products can interact negatively with other medications. Such interactions can be dangerous. Herbal remedies are not regulated and their quality is not controlled. Moreover, while there is an abundant supply of information circulating about herbs, not much of it has been scientifically proven. Consult your physician. Informing your doctor and pharmacist of what herbal products you are using is just as important as letting them know what drugs you are taking. Your physician and the pharmacist on duty at your pharmacy can assist you in deciding which herbs
are safe.