[toc]Sciatica is the inflammation of the sciatic nerve which is the longest nerve in the body. It is characterised by tingling, burning or aching all through the back and sometimes even till the legs. Sciatica generally occurs due to the compression of the sciatic nerve because of slipped disc, spondlytis, trauma, accident, and sometimes even pregnancy.
The condition may cause muscle spasms, and inflammation and the pain caused can sometimes even immobilise the individual. The conventional drugs only treat the symptoms and physiotherapy is not always effective. Injection of steroids can have severe side effects and are very expensive. Hence natural remedies are more effective as they help in reducing the inflammation, pain and muscle spasms as well as nourishing the nerves thus helping cure sciatica.
5 Best Natural Cures For Sciatica
Hydration And Lubrication
For a person suffering from sciatica it is imperative to keep the body hydrated, nourish the nerves and reduce the inflammation. Drinking plenty of water in the day will keep the body hydrated and help in internal lubrication. Certain herbal infusions are also very effective and can help in hydrating the body and lubrication of the nerves.
Linden leaf, hibiscus, okra, marshmallow and rose of Sharon are great for nourishing the nerves. Oats are very good for restoring damaged nerves. Foods that contain fats that are beneficial to the body like salmon and sardines, coconut oil, avocados, olives and certain cheeses. These fats are necessary for nerve development and maintenance.
Sleep is required by the body to recover and some extra rest is necessary in the case of a person suffering from sciatica. This gives a chance for the muscles to relax, the nerves to rebuild, and the body temperature to balance and the body function to return to optimum. Deep breathing exercises and yoga is highly recommended.
Deep breathing is a powerful and simple tool which allows a person suffering from sciatica to heal by supplying oxygen to every cell in the body and exporting the toxins and waste materials from the cells. These methods can also help relieve stress, mental tensions or pent up emotions, thus helping ease the pain and discomfort and maintain the hormonal balance.
Oils, Tinctures And Liniments
Herbal infused essential oils have muscle relaxing, anti inflammatory and nerve healing properties. These oils can be made at home by steeping herbs in carrier oil like coconut oil for four to six weeks. Frequent applications of these oils will effectively reduce the pain and inflammation caused by sciatica. St. Johns Wort, Chamomile, mint, birch, Brahmi or gotu Kola, Clary Sage, Yarrow, Golden rod and lavender are some commonly used herbs to prepare the oil. Direct application to the affected area will help in soothing the nerves thus reducing the pain and inflammation.
Liniments are extracts of herbs that are in vinegar, alcohol or glycerine. These are meant only for topical use. Any of the herbs can be used as liniments but arnica is especially useful as it is also known to improve circulation and speed up the recovery process. Certain herbal tinctures are especially useful for their anti inflammatory properties. Black Birch, Willow, Skullcap, Wild Lettuce, Rue, Mullein Root are very effective to treat sciatica as they have compounds that are specific to maintain the functioning of the nervous system.
Hot And Cold Compress
Alternating hot and cold compress is highly recommended in the case of a person suffering from sciatica. Take two large ice packs and place one on the buttocks and one on the front hip area for twenty minutes. Alternate with Hot compress and repeat the process every two hours. Icing the area will provide immediate relief from the pain. The hot compress can be in the form of a heating pad, a hot towel or even a hot bath for twenty minutes.
This alternating hot and cold compress will increase the blood circulation and aid the process of healing the nerves that are damaged. Adding herbs like Willow, Alder, Rue, Yarrow, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Birch or any other anti inflammatory herb will prove even more effective. Alternatively one or two cups of Epsom salts added to the bath will be relaxing and promote the curing of sciatica.
Various alternative therapies are available to help cure sciatica and the symptoms occurring due to sciatica. Acupuncture, Massage Chiropractic adjustments can all help to relive the pain associated with sciatica. A deep tissue or local massage will help reduce the pain and relax the body.
Acupuncture can also effectively manage the pain. Chiropractics can help by mobilising the spine and free the nerve from pressure thus reducing the pain. Hypnosis will help the patient deal with the pain by relaxing the mind and teaching it techniques to handle the pain.