Herbal Treatment for Diabetic Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that results from the peripheral nervous system being compromised. It creates chronic pain and numbness in the hands, legs and arms. Neuropathy is most commonly caused by diabetes. Common Western herbs along with various Chinese herbs can help alleviate the pain of diabetic neuropathy.

Chinese Herbs

• Some of the Chinese herbs used to treat diabetic neuropathy are Rhizoma atractylodis, Fructus tribuli, Semen coicis, Radix achyranthis bidentatae, Herba cistanches, Fructus chaenomelis and Cortex magnoliae officinalis. Chinese herbal preparations work best when used in combination; it is best to consult with an experienced Chinese herbalist to make a custom formulation to address your needs.

Western Herbs

• A few natural substances listed on the University of Maryland Medical Center website are effective for treating peripheral neuropathy. These herbs and supplements are cayenne pepper, evening primrose oil, gamma-linolenic acid, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E and vitamin H, otherwise known as biotin.

  Cayenne pepper has been used for many years by Native Americans as a food spice and medicinal spice, mostly due to its effective pain relief. Simply sprinkle on your food to experience its benefits.

  Gamma-linolenic acid is one of the omega-6 fatty acids. Because the body does not naturally produce this acid, it is important to get it through supplementation. Along with taking supplements, add fish like salmon or cod to your diet to boost levels of all the omega-6 fatty acids.

  Evening primrose oil can help alleviate symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy such as burning, numbness and pain. Look for evening primrose oil supplements in a health food store and follow label instructions carefully.

  Vitamin E can be useful to diabetics because it boosts levels of antioxidants in the body, reducing overall risk for cardiovascular disease as well as lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Vitamin E can be considered a preemptive measure to reduce the debilitating effects of diabetes. Take according to package directions.

  Biotin may improve symptoms of neuropathy in diabetics, though more research needs to be done. When combined with chromium, it seems to have an enhanced effect, but that is not proven.