Top 15 Research-Backed Herbs For Peripheral Neuropathy
April 20, 2018 Team Salubrainous
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterised by weakness, numbness and pain in the extremities, mostly the arms and feet.
It is a condition involving nerve damage. These nerves coordinate signals sent to the brain. An interruption in these signals can damage reflexes and response to various stimuli.
Peripheral neuropathy can arise over time. Some possible causes include alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, injury, chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity or infection.
Chronic nerve pain is a significant symptom of peripheral neuropathy which presents with burning sensations in the hands and feet, tingling, sock and glove feeling and abnormal sensations (paraesthesia) or pins and needles feeling.
Treatment for neuropathy varies concerning the cause. Some common modes of treatment include oral pain-relieving medications, injections for nerve pressure, and sometimes surgery. [1]
Here we discuss some natural herbs that are useful for managing peripheral neuropathy based on scientific evidence. These can help as an add-on to conventional therapy.
Top 15 Research-Backed Herbs For Peripheral Neuropathy
Here is a list of herbs that are found to be good for managing peripheral neuropathy. Some findings are limited to animal studies while some have been confirmed by human studies.
Before using any herb for neuropathy and nerve pain relief, please confirm with your health practitioner to avoid any drug interactions.
Though many individuals have reported that use of herbs and dietary supplements have completely resolved symptoms of neuropathy, it is best to look forward to these herbs as potential add-on therapy (yes they are more beneficial than conventional therapy alone) and as an agent to augment the effect of regular therapy.
Table of Contents [show]
1. Lions Mane Mushroom
Lion’s mane mushroom, or hedgehog mushroom, is a fungal supplement popularly used in Chinese medicine. Its name derives from the fact that it appears like the scruff of a lion.
Despite its shaggy appearance, it bears many health benefits. In particular, it has strong brain boosting and cancer-fighting abilities. [2]
Mainly found in North America, China and Japan, the mushroom was mainly used for culinary purposes.
However, over the past two decades, there has been significant research on its healing properties.
Its main components include hericinones, eriancines, antioxidants, polysaccharides and lipid compounds. These compounds act as food for neurons and aid cognition.
The herb possesses nerve regenerative and nerve pain-relieving properties. These abilities have been illustrated in animal studies and thus prompt its therapeutic use as a powerful herbal remedy for neuropathy. ( Read 4 Promising Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom For Neuropathy)
It also behaves as a neuroprotective agent. It has been found to reverse cognitive decline, dementia and other neurodegenerative problems.
Lion’s mane mushrooms aids in peripheral neuropathy by supporting nerve regeneration and repair. It increases the level of a protein named Nerve Growth Factor that initiates repair of the damaged nerve.
One such study showed that administration of Lion’s mane mushroom extract brought about positive changes at a damaged nerve site. [3]
It activated the necessary pathways (kt, MAPK, c-Jun, and c-Fos, and protein synthesis) to catalyse nerve regeneration. (Read and Buy Lion’s Mane Mushroom products for Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Lion’s mane mushroom helps boost Nerve Growth Factor levels that may boost nerve repair in peripheral neuropathy. It can serve as a potential herbal supplement for reducing nerve pain.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial herb belonging to the ginger family. A high amount of rainfall supports its growth. Native to southern Asia, it is one of the chief ingredients in most curries. [4]
Turmeric is gaining popularity lately, due to its highly diverse nutrient profile. Its main active constituents include polyphenols, curcumin, curcuminoids, demethoxycurcumin, diarylheptanoids, and tumerone.
Its use offers several benefits to the body and is believed to be able to fight or reverse most diseases. [5]
The herb has several modes of action against nerve damage which makes it a potential home remedy for peripheral neuropathy.
It has strong antioxidant and pain relieving potentials. It also lessens the impact of nerve damage and neuropathy brought about by factors such as alcoholism, diabetes and chemotherapy. (Read 6 Science-Backed Benefits Of Curcumin For Neuropathy)
Results of a clinical trial on peripheral neuropathy suggest that curcumin (present in turmeric) can be an effective herbal supplement for reducing neuropathic pain and lowering the use of painkillers. [6]
Curcumin from turmeric, phytosome and piperine were co-administered with dexibuprofen (400 mg twice a day) in a group of 141 patients over two months.
Among the 135 patients who completed the study, this multi-ingredient formula (Lipicur) acted as a potential complementary therapy to dexibuprofen.
Neuropathic pain scores were brought down significantly, and the use of the painkiller was also brought down by 40%. (Read and Buy Curcumin Products For Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Turmeric and curcumin are proven to relieve neuropathic pain in animal models. Its dietary consumption can help lower inflammation and oxidative stress in peripheral neuropathy.
3. Gingko Biloba
Leaves from the Gingko Biloba tree have been used for thousands of years for various medicinal purposes. It is believed to improve memory and sharpen cognition. However, the main benefit is that it aids blood circulation. It acts as an antioxidant and improves blood flow to the brain. [7]
The main active components of the gingko leaf are ginkgolides, bilabolides and flavonoids. In combination, they act as an antioxidant and improve blood flow to the brain.
Peripheral neuropathy is a complex disorder. It arises due to a web of complications within the body.
Gingko Biloba counters the two main causes of peripheral neuropathy. It acts against oxidative stress and provides neuroprotective nutrients. Thus, its use bolsters nerve health. (Read 4 Potential Benefits of Gingko Biloba in Peripheral Neuropathy)
The efficiency of Gingko tablets in neuropathy treatment was assessed through a clinical study involving 141 diabetic neuropathy patients. [8]
They were assigned to three groups- treatment, control and a group using epalrestat (a common diabetic neuropathy medicine). The treatment group was provided gingko and methylcobalamin in synergy.
Over 12 weeks, changes in neurological symptoms and physical parameters were measured. The treatment group displayed improved nerve function and signal conduction velocity. The results for the treatment group were far superior to those seen in the two other groups.
This indicates strong potential for application of gingko for peripheral neuropathy treatment.(Read and Buy Gingko Biloba products for Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Gingko biloba’s natural neuroprotective action make it a useful herb for peripheral neuropathy treatment and nerve pain relief.
4. St. John’s Wort
St Johns wort is a herb that produces yellow flowers. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is known to relieve conditions of depression and aid mental health. [9]
The two main components of the herb are hypericin and hyperforin. Hypericin is believed to act as an antibiotic, antiviral and non-specific kinase inhibitor while hyperforin acts as the antidepressant agent. [10]
As a herbal remedy for neuropathy, St. John’s wort targets neuropathic problems through pain relief, protecting nerve health and repairing damaged nerves. It also reduces the symptoms of diabetes and chemotherapy-associated neuropathy. (Read 4 Evidence-Based Benefits of St. John’s wort for Neuropathy)
Galeotti’s 2010 study illustrated how the use of St Johns Wort could alleviate symptoms of neuropathy. [11]
Using an animal model he was able to observe the antinociception (blocking of detection of painful stimuli by sensory neurons.) brought about by the herb. (Read and Buy St. John’s wort products for Peripheral Neuropathy)
Two case reports have also described the successful use of St. John’s wort oil for wound healing and relieving nerve pain in severe diabetic foot ulcer. [12] [13]
Quick Gist: St. John’s wort natural pain relieving action can help relieve neuropathic pain, but the research on this aspect is limited. Topical application of St. John’s wort oil seems to be a potential home remedy for nerve pain and peripheral neuropathy.
5. Cannabis sativa
Cannabis sativa is a fast growing Central Asian herb. Well, it’s herbal and medicinal potential is now brought to light by the media and scientific community. It has been used for years in folk medicine and several industrial applications.
The multi-purpose applications of the plant can be attributed to its range of components. It is composed of phytochemicals, phenols, cellulosic and woody fibres. It contains cannabinoids which are compounds of great pharmaceutical interest. [14]
With regards to peripheral neuropathy, the medical cannabis behaves as an antioxidant and analgesic. It also modulates nerve growth factor activity. [15]
In 2015, a study published in the Journal of Pain, the official scientific journal of the American Pain Society highlighted the application of inhaled cannabis for chronic neuropathy treatment.[16]
Five placebo-controlled studies were carried out, and their results were analysed over weeks. It was seen that medical cannabis showed short-term benefits for pain alleviation when compared to a placebo.
This was followed up by a recent extensive study. 16 studies involving over a thousand patients were analysed. These case studies involved the application of medical CBD-based drugs for neuropathy.
The results of data analysis showed that in patients with no history of drug abuse, medical cannabis alleviated neuropathic pain safely and effectively. [17]
Quick Gist: The applications of CBD as a herb and natural remedy for peripheral neuropathy deserve further research. In animal models, bioactives from CBD serve as natural analgesics for nerve pain.
6. Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chief constituent of chilli peppers. It is used medically to lower pain associated with muscle/joint damage, arthritis, backache and sprains. It works by catalysing pain signals being sent to the brain. [18]
Chemically, the herb is an alkylamide. It acts at various cation channels and helps in releasing neuropeptides. [19]
Topical application of the capsaicin has demonstrated pain relieving benefits. It is an effective herbal remedy for neuropathic pain relief; though it does not cure the condition, it helps relieve pain with lesser side effects than conventional painkillers.
It is also a safe and effective treatment agent for diabetes, HIV and chemotherapy-induced nerve pain. (Read How Capsaicin Effectively Relieves Neuropathic Pain)
A recent experiment aimed to assess the ability of capsaicin to treat diabetic neuropathy. In this study, its effectiveness was tested against other oral medications for nerve pain such as pregabalin, gabapentin, duloxetine and amitriptyline.
Indeed capsaicin patch proved to be better than conventional drugs for peripheral neuropathy relief.
A detailed analysis of several control trials using these agents was carried out. Through this, it was revealed that concerning pain reduction, capsaicin is significantly more effective than placebo.
Capsaicin also exhibited a numerical advantage compared with pregabalin and gabapentin (conventional drugs prescribed for nerve pain) and had similar efficacy compared with duloxetine. A bonus of capsaicin was a reduced chance of dizziness and fatigue appearance which is caused by conventional medicines. [20]
Quick Gist: Application of 8% capsaicin patch can be a natural alternative to oral painkillers for neuropathic pain. It has lesser side effects.
Applying capsaicin-based ointment (1-2%) can be a natural home remedy for managing neuropathic pain and peripheral neuropathy symptoms. It can’t be thought of as a permanent relief but can be relied on as a hack for reducing nerve pain temporarily.
7. Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil is obtained from the seeds of flowers of the plant, Oenothera biennis. Traditional evidence suggest that it has several healing powers and is taken as a supplement or applied topically. [21]
The medical benefits of evening primrose can be attributed to the gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) present in it. GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory property.
The anti-inflammatory property of the evening primrose oil can be applied to neuropathy therapy. The GLA present in it relieves signs of inflammation. It also accelerates neuron repair and regeneration. (Read Can Evening Primrose Oil Help In Peripheral Neuropathy?)
Evening primrose oil has seen to be effective in diabetic neuropathy management when administered with vitamin E. In Ogbera’s 2014 interventional study; the combination was provided to 80 patients with severe neuropathy caused by diabetes. [22]
Over one year, the subjects were provided vitamin E in a dose of 400 mg in combination with Evening Primrose in doses ranging 500-1000 mg/day. The clinical and biochemical parameters of the group were regularly analysed.
It was seen that the compounds worked in synergy and they successfully relieved pain and ameliorated symptoms of the disease.
The studies on evening primrose oil are limited; further research is required to improvise its utility in clinical settings.
Quick Gist: The use of evening primrose oil as a herbal remedy for peripheral neuropathy has been demonstrated by one study in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Treatment with oral Evening Primrose Oil and Vitamin E for three months relieved neuropathic pain.
However, more research is required to confirm its effectiveness.
8. German chamomile
German chamomile or Matricaria chamomilla is a herbaceous plant whose flower head is used for varying pharmaceutical purposes.[23]
The main bioactive components of the herb are flavonoids, luteolin, quercetin, patuletin and essential oil constituents such as α-bisabolol and its oxides and azulenes.[24]
Given the wide-ranging health benefits of chamomile oil, its effects on neuropathy have been investigated. While it cannot cure the condition, its topical application can help in pain management and provide short-term benefits. (Read Essential Oils For Peripheral Neuropathy & Nerve Pain: An Evidence-Based Guide)
Topical application of German chamomile oil can serve as a good home remedy for nerve pain relief.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterised by pain, tingling and numbness in an individual’s arm. It isn’t a case of peripheral neuropathy, but it does involve a component of nerve pain.
In an experiment involving 26 carpal tunnel affected patients, chamomile oil was applied for four weeks twice in a day. At the end of the study, the group which used the oil showed improved outcomes when compared to the placebo group. [25]
Symptomatic and functional status of the patients was altered positively. These results could be indicative of similar applications of the herb for peripheral neuropathy.(Read and Buy German Chamomile Oil For Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Flowers of German chamomile provide a blue essential oil that has various herbal applications. Research suggests that application of German chamomile oil regularly for four weeks helps relieve nerve pain.
9. Lavender
Lavender is the collective term used to refer to the approximately 47 species of plants belonging to the Lavendula family. The flowers of these plants have an extremely attractive colour. This plant can be found across Europe, Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia.
The herb grows and spreads at a very fast pace and is comprised of over a 100 compounds. Most notably, it contains, Linalool, perillyl alcohol, linalyl acetate, camphor, limonene, tannins, triterpenes, coumarins cineole, and flavonoids. [26]
These compounds provide stress reducing capabilities to the plant. Its consumption is often accompanied by a calming effect on the individual. It also acts as a topical analgesic. (Explore other essential oils that relieve nerve pain effectively.)
This herb has also shown the ability to counter the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) indicating further use for neuropathy. Carpel tunnel syndrome shares one strong feature with peripheral neuropathy: severe nerve pain.
In a 2017 Journal of Hand Therapy study, it was seen that lavender oil application in a group of 40 carpal tunnel syndrome patients effectively brought down their pain intensity. [27]
The study was carried out over 40 days at the end of which results revealed that lavender oil usage improved grip, motor activity and nerve potentials notably. The outcomes obtained were highly beneficial when compared to the placebo group. (Read and Buy Lavender Oil For Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Lavender oil possesses natural analgesic and anaesthetic action. Applying diluted lavender oil regularly can be an effective home remedy for temporary nerve pain relief in peripheral neuropathy.
10. Green tea catechins
Green tea consumption is becoming increasingly popular due to its various health benefits. It has strong antioxidant capabilities thereby reducing the content of harmful free radicals in the body. [28]
Its main active components are catechins, epigallocatechin and caffeine. The catechins are antioxidant polyphenols which act against reactive oxygen species build up.
The herb aids neuropathic conditions by bringing about pain relief. It is useful in treating diabetic and alcoholic neuropathy as well. Its administration boosts antioxidant defences and reduces inflammation in nerve cells. (Read 6 Promising Benefits Of Green Tea Catechins For Neuropathy)
One of the limitations of using green tea catechins for neuropathy treatment is their limited bioavailability and absorption in our body.
In a 2015 PLoS One published study, the effects of an epigallocatechin derivative on an animal model of nerve injury were observed. [29]
It was seen that along with a reduction in pain, inflammation levels caused by the injury was brought down significantly. (Read and Buy Green Tea products for Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: The antioxidant and neuroprotective action of green tea catechins make them a potential herbal supplement for peripheral neuropathy. But this is yet to be translated in clinical studies.
11. Holy basil
Holy basil, or more commonly tulsi, is a plant that has been used for its healing powers for over 3000 years. From its ancient Indian medical use to modern day use it has been applied to treat a range of problems.
Most prominently, it behaves as an adaptogen (stress –regulator) and blood purifier.
The plant is rich in several minerals and vitamins. Some of these are sodium, manganese, vitamin A and vitamin K. [30]
Holy basil’s analgesic property makes it a promising herbal remedy for nerve pain and damage. It has been seen to heal nerve degeneration. It reduces the effects of nerve damage and pain, improves motor activity and aids reflexes. [31]
In animal models, the Holy basil extracts have successfully lowered oxidative stress levels and calcium accumulation associated with neuropathy. It ameliorates symptoms of neurotoxicity brought about by chemotherapy. [32]
The potential effects of Holy basil for peripheral neuropathy treatment are yet to be translated in human studies. (Read 6 Benefits of Holy Basil For Peripheral Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Studies in animal models suggest that holy basil has a few active ingredients that relieve nerve pain and initiate nerve repair. This is not yet confirmed by human studies.
Chronic nerve pain can cause stress and sleep disturbances in patients with peripheral neuropathy. Holy basil can serve as an effective herbal supplement for mitigating mental health symptoms of neuropathy.
12. Saffron
Saffron is a very popular Indian spice. It is often referred to as the priceless spice due to its extensive extraction process. It belongs to the lily family and offers numerous health benefits.[33]
The elements that make the herb so special is a combination of volatile and non-volatile chemicals. These are crocin, α-crocin, carotenoids that include lycopene, zeaxanthin, alpha- and beta- carotenes, crocetin, and terpene, terpene alcohol and terpene esters respectively. [34]
Saffron can be used as a herb for neuropathy treatment as it boosts immunity, relieves pain and behaves as a strong antioxidant. It also aids symptoms of diabetes thus making it useful in diabetic neuropathy therapy. [35]
Research carried out on animal models has shown that combinations of safranal, a component of saffron, and Vitamin E could improve nerve function and reduce oxidative stress associated with neuropathy. [36]
Human studies reflecting saffron’s potential in peripheral neuropathy treatment are still awaited. ( Read 4 Evidence-Based Benefits of Saffron For Neuropathy)
Quick Gist: Saffron is a potential neuroprotective agent that may serve as an add-on therapy for preventing neurological conditions. In animal studies, the herb is proven to be useful for reducing nerve pain.
Saffron also holds benefits for the mental health and can help combat chronic pain-induced stress.
13. Rosemary
Rosemary is a woody, perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. In addition to a pleasant fragrance and unique taste, it offers a multitude of health benefits. [37]
The main chemical constituents of rosemary oil are p-cymene, Linalool, gamma-terpinene, oxygenated monoterpenes and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. [38]
The anti-neuropathy effects of the herb can be seen through its neuroprotective and analgesic activities. [39]
Alcoholic extract of rosemary has been shown to reduce pain sensitivity in animal models of neuropathy. It also relieves pain by lowering the effects of inflammation. [40]
Quick Gist: Rosemary extracts lower pain in animal models of neuropathy. Topical application of rosemary oil or its inclusion in diet can help.
14. Sage
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial woody herb with amazing effects on human health. Closely related to rosemary, the two are often referred to as “sister herbs”.
The main components of S. officinalis, are 1,8-cineole, camphor, borneol, bornyl acetate, camphene and varying concentrations of acids like salvianolic acid, rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid and ursolic acid, etc. [41]
Similar to its sister, rosemary, sage offers few advantages in neuropathy treatment. It can protect brain health, scale up immune defences and reduce inflammation. [42]
In an animal model of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, sage extracts were applied in combination with the platinum-based drug, cisplatin. It was noted that the combination could effectively lower pain sensitivity while protecting neurons from damage. [43]
Quick Gist: Active compounds present in sage is found to be useful for managing chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity and peripheral neuropathy. Though it hasn’t been translated in human studies yet, adding sage to your meals won’t hurt.
15. Astragalus
Astralagus is a plant belonging to the Leguminosae family, i.e. legumes and beans. It is a Chinese medicinal herb. [44]
Its root bears strong immunity boosting abilities prompting its use for several medical purposes. It also behaves as an adaptogen and antioxidant.
The main active compounds present in the plant are flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides (e.g., astragalosides I-VII), amino acids, and trace minerals
As a Chinese herbal remedy for peripheral neuropathy, it can stimulate regenerative processes, protect neurons and lessen the impact of chemotherapy-related nerve damage.
These properties have been assessed through both in vivo and in vitro animal studies. [45]
Administration of the herb (in an animal model) has shown potential to promote nerve growth and regenerate axons in nerve cells. Through axon regeneration, signalling mechanisms between cells are improved leading to nerve repair in peripheral neuropathy. [46]
Quick Gist: Astragalus is a potential anti-fatigue Chinese herb that is found to improve nerve growth and nerve repair in animal models of peripheral neuropathy.
Precautions When Using Herbs For Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment
Here a few things that you need to keep in mind when using herbal supplements for peripheral neuropathy treatment:
If you are on conventional treatment for peripheral neuropathy, do not use herbs as a replacement for conventional medicines. Abrupt cessation of conventional meds may have serious side effects. It is better to use herbs as an add-on therapy.
Please consult your doctor before taking any herb for peripheral neuropathy to avoid any potential drug interactions.
Opt for high-quality herbal supplements that contain standardised extracts or patented formulas to reduce the risk of heavy metal contamination and other ill effects.
Avoid taking herbs at the same time as conventional medicines to avoid drug interactions. Many herbs regulate drug metabolising enzymes. It is advisable to maintain a 3-4 hour gap between the two.
Some herbs possess antiplatelet activity. Avoid such herbs if you are already taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.
Some of the herbs mentioned above regulate brain chemistry. If you are experiencing mental health issues especially mania, please take the herbs with caution.
Some herbs also work as metal chelators, so avoid taking them in combination with mineral supplements. Maintain a sufficient gap.
Avoid co-medicating with multiple herbs. If possible work with a herbalist or naturopath to identify a herb that would suit your health condition.
Conclusion
Given the complex nature of peripheral neuropathy, the use of natural herbs such as those listed above is highly advisable. Being of natural origin, they have multiple modes of action that can help manage peripheral neuropathy symptoms.
Lion’s mane mushroom and turmeric seem to be potentially effective herbs for peripheral neuropathy.
Topical application of capsaicin, lavender oil and German chamomile oil can serve as natural alternatives and herbal remedies for nerve pain relief, thus reducing the use of conventional painkillers.
Patients should consult with medical advisors about the use of herbs for peripheral neuropathy as soon as possible to see encouraging results and effective nerve pain elimination.
Have you used any herb for peripheral neuropathy? If you have, do share your experience in a comment below.
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