Neuropathy Home Remedies

Neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves become impaired, can appear in the form of pain or tingling in the hands or feet, shooting pains around the hip or back area, or numbness in the hands, feet, legs or arms. These are often passing symptoms, and most people are unaware that possible nerve damage could be the cause.

Identification

• Neuropathy is a condition in which the peripheral nerves in the nervous system have suffered damage. These include the nerves throughout the body that branch out from the brain and spinal cord. The condition occurs in cases where diabetes is present, or it can be caused by nutritional deficiencies or excessive pressure on the nerves. Neuropathy commonly damages the axon portion of the nerve cell, the part that transmits signals from cell-to-cell and cell-to-muscle. When damaged, pain and tingling are common.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

• Alpha lipoic acid has been used by German physicians to treat neuropathy since 1959. In the United States, it's used as a home remedy or alternative cure. Alpha lipoic acid is sold in tablet form as a supplement. Typically 1,200 to 1,800 milligrams a day is required to treat the condition. Alpha lipoic acid is a fatty acid that's found inside every cell within the body. Its role is to convert glucose into energy, which is then used by the cell as fuel. It takes two to three weeks before a reduction in neuropathy symptoms is apparent.

Homeopathy

• Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine based on the body's ability to build a resistance toward a condition or invading toxin. Substances that are likely to cause the symptoms being cured are administered in heavily diluted forms. As the body becomes accustomed to minute amounts, its resistance is further strengthened by using a less diluted form of the substance. Homeopathic home remedies used to treat neuropathy include aconite, belladonna, cantharsis and hypercum.

Natural Home Remedies

• St. John's Wort, skullcap and vitamin B6 can be used to treat nerve pain that occurs as a result of nerve damage. Evening primrose oil and magnesium help with reducing continued nerve damage. Other remedies include acupuncture, which applies needles to certain pressure points on the body, and regular exercise, which improves the body's circulation, relieves nerve pain and reduces damage.

Prevention/Solution

• As glucose metabolism plays a significant role in healthy nerve function, any condition (such as diabetes) that impairs cell metabolism increases your risk of developing neuropathy. A healthy diet made up of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains will help maintain proper blood sugar levels. Foods rich in vitamin B12 help reduce the likelihood of nerve damage. You can find B12 in fortified cereals, eggs, fish and low-fat dairy products. Nerve damage can also occur as a result of repetitive motions, uncomfortable body positions and consuming nicotine or alcohol.