Herbal Cures for Vertigo

Vertigo is often thought of as merely a fear of heights, or is associated with feelings of dizziness, disorientation and even fear. In fact, it's typically a symptom of a disorder of the inner ear or central nervous system. Depending on the type and degree of the disease, a number of herbal cures for vertigo are available. If they prove less than effective, visit your physician.

Helping the Brain

• There are several herbs that treat vertigo by improving blood circulation to the brain and central nervous system, and, as a result, ease symptoms of the disorder. Ginger, ginkgo biloba, vitamin B-6, tanacetum parthenium and vinpocetine can all be helpful. Vinpocetine, an extract of the periwinkle plant, is a brain stimulant that is purported to be effective at reducing the symptoms of vertigo. Ginger has also been found to aid in treating vertigo and motion sickness.

  A tincture of ginkgo may also help; have an herbalist make up a bottle of it, then put 30 drops of it in a glass of water, and drink the mixture twice daily. Another treatment is a blend of the dried extracts of hawthorn, angelica and melilot. Again, an herbalist can take 100mg of each and put the combination in capsules; injest one or two capsules two to three times a day. Repeat this for 10 days, after which your vertigo should be improved.

Helping the Heart

• Sometimes, improving overall blood circulation will help ease vertigo. Hawthorn, melilot and garlic all promote improved heart function. For example, take one to three 500mg capsules of garlic powder daily.

If Symptoms Persist

• Vertigo can also involve a fear of heights or may be a symptom of a problem with your inner ear or central nervous system. In the case of the former, consider talking to a therapist or psychiatrist who can help you get to the root of your underlying anxieties. If the latter proves to be the case and herbal remedies don't help, see a doctor and get a professional evaluation.