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Herbal Treatment for Sciatica

Tess Thompson

Herbs form an integral part of the holistic approach of all sciatica alternative remedies. Whatever the contention of the conventionalist, the role of herbal treatments cannot be denied. Many conventional medicines were initially derived from herbs and natural products and later synthesized for mass production.

Most of the drugs used for treating different ailments carry a warning about side effects. Herbs are relatively safe and, if taken in recommended quantities, do not lead to any complication that cannot be managed easily. A typical herbal sciatic nerve treatment for managing pain may include some of the following herbs:

• Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)

Low doses of devil’s claw, initially known for relieving pain from arthritis, can ease sciatic pain.

• Oil of Wintergreen

It contains methyl salicylate, which is widely used for treating inflammation caused by arthritis, sciatica, rheumatism and tense muscles externally. It is toxic and should not be ingested.

• St. John’s Wort

Rubbing oil from this herb on the affected part, preferably before bedtime, will take care of any intense pain and tension.

• Chamomile

Chamomile has a healing effect on muscle tissue. Topical application of chamomile tea or 10-20 drops of extract in water produces instant results.

• Horsetail

This perennial brush-like flowerless herb with hollow stems and a narrow leaves that spread by creeping rhizomes is an effective remedy for building connective tissue.

• Turmeric

Turmeric is one of the most talked about herbal remedies for injury, sciatica, healing wounds and pain management. It has been in use in Asia for ages and has a very strong track record. It can be ingested on daily basis, even in its raw form mixed in milk or used as a topical remedy by mixing it with butter oil and other herbs like garlic and leek.

• Jamaican Dogwood (Piscidia erythrina)

It is particularly indicated for compression of nerves like sciatica, painful menstruation and spasms. Two to four grams of dried root of the herb, three times a day are enough to relieve episodes of sciatica. However, this herb is not recommended for pregnant women, lactating mothers and individuals with congestive cardiac conditions.

• Garlic and Mustard Oil

Garlic pods and mustard oil work as an effective pain reliever. Put some garlic pods in mustard oil and heat until the garlic is burnt. Let it cool. A regular massage with the oil over the affected part will relieve mild pain.

Herbs can be used as standalone medicines and topical applications. They can also be used in combination of more than one herb. Although a safer option, indiscriminate use of herbs can prove to be dangerous in some rare cases. Moreover, herbs should be used only after gathering relevant information about the dosage and instances where they should not be used. While a topical application of herbs is devoid of any negative effect on the patient, ingestion can sometimes produce mild side effects.

References:
http://ezinearticles.com/?Natural-Remedies-For-Sciatica---Get-Rid-Of-Sciatica
http://www.healthynewage.com/sciatica-pain-relief.htm  
http://www.articlegold.com/Article/Natural-Herbs-for-Fibromyalgia-Treatment
http://ezinearticles.com/?Untold-Secrets-of-Sciatica-Alternative-Remedies
http://www.herbalayur-massages.com/services_treatments_massage
http://www.herbalayur-massages.com/ailments_massage
http://www.bonnietravisdc.com/htm/dr_bonnie_products/herbal_oils_liniments
http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com/sciatica-herbal-remedy.html  
http://www.ayursampada.com/treatments.html