Overview
Neuropathy is a peripheral nerves disorder which is responsible for carrying signals between the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the body. This system of nerves links brain and spinal cord to other parts of body, such as hands, feet, and internal organs. When these nerves are harmed, they cannot communicate properly, resulting in various symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves situated outside the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves) become harmed. The motor sensory nerves transmit sensory information to the central nervous system from the peripheral nerves. This condition frequently leads to weakness, numbness, and discomfort, typically in the hands and feet.
Types of neuropathy:
Neuropathy is commonly classified based on the specific nerves impacted:
- Peripheral neuropathy: Impacts nerves in the limbs (Numbness, Tingling or prickling feeling and Burning sensation in hands, feet, etc.).
- Autonomic neuropathy: Influences the nerves that regulate involuntary functions (digestion, heart rate, urination, bowel movements, and blood pressure, etc.).
- Focal neuropathy, referred to as mononeuropathy, is a form of nerve injury that impacts one specific nerve. It leads to pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling.
- Cranial Neuropathy impacts the nerves located in the brain.
Causes:
Numerous factors can cause neuropathy, including:
- Excess intake of alcohol as it leads to nutritional deficiency.
- Vitamin deficiencies, vitamin B, especially vitamins B1, B6, and B12. Vitamin E, folic acid and niacin also can impact the nervous system.
- High blood sugar may also levels damage nerves over time.
- Diabetes is a leading cause
- Trauma to nerves injuries
- Lyme disease, shingles, and HIV infections.
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
- Exposure to toxins and certain medications.
- Inherited genetic disorders such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
- Kidney or Liver disease
- Aging increases the risk for neuropathy
Symptoms:
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of nerve damage, but common ones include:
- Numbness and tingling
- Burning or sharp pain
- Muscle weakness
- Sensitivity to touch
- Loss of coordination
- Problems with digestion, urination, or other autonomic functions
- Lightheadedness, Dizziness and Too much sweating
Ayurvedic Perspective on Neuropathy
The Ayurvedic understanding of neuropathy is based on understanding the body’s three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Neuropathy is frequently linked to an imbalance of the Vata dosha, which regulates motion and the nervous system. Consequently, therapies seek to calm Vata and reestablish equilibrium.
Vata’s Role:
- Vata governs movement, circulation, and the nervous system.
- When Vata is imbalanced, it can lead to several neurological disorders, including neuropathy.
- Vata is characterized by qualities like dryness, coldness, lightness, and irregularity, which can manifest as symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain.
Balancing Vata:
The primary focus of Ayurvedic treatment is to pacify Vata and restore balance.
This involves:
- Snehana (Oleation): Using light-warm, medicated oils to nourish the nervous system. This can involve either with external application (Abhyanga) or internal consumption of medicated ghee.
- Swedana (Sudation): Warm therapies such as warm steam baths to reduce stiffness and improve blood and muscle circulations.
- Basti (Enema): Considered as a primary treatment for Vata disorders, Basti involves administering medicated oils or herbal decoctions through the rectum.
AYURVEDA TREATMENT
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing neuropathy, focusing on balancing the body’s energies (Doshas) and promoting healthy nervous system.
Here’s an overview of common Ayurvedic treatments:
Panchakarma:
These detoxification and rejuvenation therapies are often recommended.
Key procedures may include:
- Basti (enema): Considered particularly effective for Vata disorders.
- Abhyanga (oil massage): Using Ayurvedic medicated oils to nourish the nervous system.
- Nasya (nasal administration): To clear channels and improve nerve function.
Herbal Remedies:
Several herbs are used to support nerve health:
- Ashwagandha: Recognized for its ability to strengthen nerves and decrease stress levels. Ashwagandha helps in stabilizing energy levels and restores nerve balance.
- Brahmi: An incredible herb known for improving mental stress. It aids in lowering cortisol levels, the main hormone responsible for stress.
- Turmeric or Curcumin: Turmeric contains a high level of curcumin, a substance known for its neuroprotective effects. It reduces brain inflammation, encourages the development of new cellular connections, and safeguards nerves.
- Kapikacchu: Kapikachhu serves as a potent nerve tonic. It is a natural supplement that increases dopamine levels need to be properly regulated for optimal sensory performance and cognitive sharpness. Kapikachhu also soothes the senses, reduces anxiety and tension.
- Bala: Utilized to improve nerve and muscle strength.
- Gokshura: Could aid in enhancing nerve function.
- Triphala: Utilized for cleansing and overall wellness.
- Other herb such as ginger are utilized for their anti-inflammatory benefits.
Seven foods that help fight Neuropathy and improve the symptoms
- Fruits: Aim for one fruit per day such as oranges, grapes, cranberries, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, and raspberries are all good for the nerves.
- Vegetables: Antioxidant found in broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, and kale that can protect and enhance nerve function.
- Whole grains: Like buckwheat, millet, quinoa, brown rice, muesli and sprouted grain bread.
- Nuts: high in fiber are walnuts, cashews, almonds, and sunflower seeds helps
- Legumes: Naturally occurring legumes include chickpeas, fava beans, pinto beans, black beans, and lentils.
Foods to avoid:
- Foods high in sugar, covers processed foods, sweet snacks, and desserts.
- Fried foods, Alcohol and Caffeine.
- Gluten-containing grain products, avoid refined carbohydrates like pizza, crackers, white bread, and pasta.
Diet and Lifestyle:
Ayurveda emphasizes a Vata-pacifying diet, which typically includes:
- Stop eating late and have a light dinner, preferably before 8 pm.
- Restrict alcohol intake,
- Abstain from smoking.
- Healthy oils and fats.
- Sweet, sour, and salty tastes food.
- Lifestyle recommendations may include:
- Regular exercise, such as Yoga and Meditation as these practices are very useful for managing stress. Also certain yoga postures may aid in blood circulation.
- Stress management techniques, like meditation.
- Adequate sleep.
Important Considerations:
While Ayurveda offers a complementary approach to managing neuropathy, it should not replace conventional medical treatment. By following some Ayurvedic principles, such as living in harmony with nature, always eating a balanced diet, reducing stress by yoga, and maintaining a healthy mind-body balance, can help avoid nervous damage.
It’s crucial to consult with a qualified holistic Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment.
