Herbal Treatment for Sciatic Nerve Pain

Herbal remedies play a crucial role in alternative sciatica treatment. Many traditional medicines have been created from herbs and natural products and then modified for mass commercial production. Herbs for sciatica are generally considered safe and if taken in the prescribed quantities do not lead to any major complications. The herbs described below in various forms are recommended for treatment of sciatica.

Devil's Claw, Oil of Wintergreen and St. Johns Wort

• The herb Devil's claw is often recommended for treating arthritis pain and can help with pain from sciatica. Devil's claw roots are dried and made into capsules, tablets and extracts along with ointments for external application. Drink tea made from Devil's claw to relieve sciatic pain.

  Massage a few drops of oil of wintergreen that has been mixed with 1 tbsp. of almond oil into areas affected by sciatica. Oil of wintergreen is widely used to treat arthritis and sore aching muscles.

  St. Johns wort is available in oil form and can be massaged into the affected area especially before retiring for the night. It helps to alleviate pain and tension in muscles.

Chamomile and Turmeric

• Drink chamomile tea for relief of sciatica symptoms. It can also be used as a topical application on the affected area. Add 10 to 20 drops of chamomile extract in water and drink for relief of symptoms.

  Turmeric is a very popular herb for treating all kinds of injuries along with healing wounds, easing sciatica and general pain management. Take on a daily basis by mixing some raw turmeric in milk and drinking the mixture. Turmeric is also quite effective as a topical application for treating sciatica. Combine with almond oil and massage gently into the affected tissue.

Jamaican Dogwood, Mustard Oil and Garlic

• Take between 2 and 4 g of the dried root of Jamaican dogwood to relieve the painful symptoms of sciatica. This herb should not be taken by women who are pregnant or lactating.

  Place some garlic pods into a few tsp. of mustard and heat up until the garlic has burned. Let cool, mix together and apply to the affected area. Massage the area to relieve sciatic pain.

  Combine these herbal remedies with exercise, diet, massage techniques and over-the-counter medicines to relieve the pain from sciatica. Consult your physician if you are experiencing ongoing pain for an effective treatment plan.