Sciatica is a painful condition characterized by development of severe pain which extends from the lower back to the feet. Pain is often followed by tingling, numbness in the legs, inability to move, sit or stand.
Causes
Sciatica or sciatic pain is quite common and affects many people. Different degenerative processes, usually located in the vertebrae, are responsible for the occurence of sciatica.
There are many other causes like disc herniation, cartilage ossification in the vertebrae, spondylosis, trauma incurred as a result of car accident, or heavy lifting.
Symptoms
Sciatica is a painful condition of neural origin, which occurs as a result of the pressure and irritation of the sciatic nerve, and the radial pain of the lower back spreads to the pelvis and down to the feet.
The pressure on the nerve will eventually cause painful movement and numbness in the feet.
If the pain persists, it becomes chronic, and it is lokalized in the lower back, hips, thighs – the whole leg in general. This causes long-lasting pain, burning sensation, inability to sit, stand and walk due to the pain.
Conservative treatment
To cure sciatica on time, it is necessary to reduce the inflammation, relieve pain, and muscle spasms. These are the main objectives to be achieved.
Health experts suggest chiropractic, acupuncture, physical exercises and massage. Massage the affected area to relax sore and tight muscles.
Natural treatment
In addition to the physical and drug-based therapies you can also use healing herbs and alternative recipes. You can use herbal therapies alone or as a backup for the regular treatment of painful conditions.
Natural herbal therapies are considered to be the best option for the treatment of sciatica. They have no side-effects, provide long-term relief, and they can also be used as a supplement to the regular therapy.
Herbs reduce the inflammation of the sciatic nerve, which eliminates the feeling of pain and discomfort in the legs and back.
Healing herbs
Use herbs with anti-inflammatory effect, as they are able to calm the nerves. They can be used as essential oil, tincture, or ointment.
Use natural remedies like chamomile, lavender, sage, mint, St. John’s wort, arnica flower, garlic, chilli pepper, horsetail, horse-chestnut, black radish, burdock leaves, and turmeric.
1. Chamomile tea
Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory effect. It is used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions and sciatic pain. Drink chamomile tea three times a day in winter, as sciatica usually occurs when the temperatures are low.
2. St. John’s wort tea or ointment
St. John’s wort is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is specific for its regenerative effect on the nerves. Apply it topically as an ointment or tincture, or make a nice cup of tea.
3. Use horsetail to massage affected areas
Thanks to its silicon content, horsetail is an excellent analgesic. Use it fresh to massage the painful area. The rubbing heats the herb, which then releases oils with analgesic effect.
4. Chili pepper ointment
Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which gives a feeling of burning or heat. Therefore, chili peppers are often used in the treatment of pain that affects bones and muscles.
You can easily make a healing ointment, just combine 4 teaspoons od ground chili pepper and a tablespoon of olive oil. Rub the mixture on the affected area. It will heat the area, and thus eliminate pain, so you would feel better and relaxed.
5. Mint essential oil
Mint contains aromatic substances such as peppermint, which eliminates pain and relaxes the muscles.
6. Fresh garlic
Eat 3-4 garlic cloves every morning for breakfast. This will prevent infections, strengthen your immunity, and garlic also relieves pain in the long run.
Fuente: www.healthandhealthyliving.com
