Ayurvedic treatment for Neuropathy entails a comprehensive plan that includes herbal medications, various panchakarma therapies that nourish the nerves, and other dietary and lifestyle changes that promote regeneration.
So, before you get frustrated with mainstream medicine’s limited solutions, take a fresh look at Ayurveda.
Put down your prescription pills and try a more natural way to calm your nerves.
In this article, you’ll discover the distinct Ayurvedic perspective on neuropathy’s underlying causes and symptoms and time-tested herbal and lifestyle remedies tailored to your needs.
Ready to give your nerves some nurturing TLC and finally feel relief?
Read on to take control of your health the natural way.
Role of Ayurveda in Neuropathy Treatment
Neuropathy’s consequences extend beyond its physical manifestations.
Individuals with these illnesses frequently experience emotional and psychological difficulties.
Numbness and chronic pain are to be expected.
In some cases, the side effects of traditional therapy may exacerbate these emotional difficulties.
As a result, more people are turning to alternative therapies such as Ayurveda for effective and comprehensive solutions.
Ayurveda believes that imbalances in the three doshas primarily cause nerve problems.
The human body has three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Tridosha and nerve problems
Vata dosha controls our nervous system’s proper function and movement.
As a result, when the Vata is deranged, it can cause nerve problems like anxiety, depression, and stress.
This can also occur due to poor nutrition and excessive junk food consumption.
External environmental factors may also cause a Vata shift.
Excess Vata can cause increased toxin buildup.
As a result, draining the toxin buildup is critical to maintaining nerve health, and Vata should be optimized.
This is Ayurveda’s holistic approach to improving nerve health.
Ayurvedic herbal tonics can work at the tissue level, promoting nervous system health.
To balance Vata and restore health to the nervous system, an Ayurvedic treatment protocol may include:
Oil massage therapy (abhyanga) Warm oil massage helps pacify vata through moist heat and a soothing touch.
Medicated oils containing herbs like ashwagandha, bala and vidari can be highly beneficial for Neuropathy.
Herbal remedies Rasayanas like ashwagandha, bala and vidari nourish the nervous tissue and pacify vyana Vata.
Other helpful herbs include ginger, turmeric, and triphala.
These can be taken as powders, decoctions, or infusions.
Following an Ayurvedic lifestyle with natural treatments may help prevent or manage some neurological disorders.
However, for many conditions, medical care and prescription drugs are also often necessary, especially in severe or progressive cases.
An integrative approach combining conventional and alternative medicine may offer the best results.
What is Neuropathy?
The word neuropathy is derived from 2 Greek words “neuron,” meaning “nerve.” and “pathos,” meaning “affliction” or “condition.
It refers to nerve damage that causes numbness, tingling, and pain, usually in your hands and feet.
The nerves that carry messages from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body are affected.
Neuropathy is often caused by diabetes, but it can also be due to injuries, infections, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to toxic chemicals.
Causes of Neuropathy
Several factors can cause neuropathy or nerve damage.
The primary causes are as follows:
Causes Of Primary Neuropathy
1. Excess alcohol intake
Use of Alcohol. When the intake of alcohol is there without proper food, it leads to Neuropathy.
Because in the absence of adequate food, alcohol leads to nutritional deficiency.
2. B Vitamin deficiencies
When the body doesn’t have adequate vitamin B, especially vitamins B1, B6, and B12.
Besides this scarcity of Vitamin E, folic acid and niacin also can impact the nervous system.
3. Few Medications
As a side effect of Medications, a few medicines, mainly those that are used in chemotherapy, can cause Neuropathy.
4. Trauma to the nerve
Any trauma or pressure can cause this condition.
Such as radiculopathy of sciatica because of the pressure from the intervertebral disc (Slip Disc).
Secondary Neuropathy
1. Diabetes
Diabetes is the leading cause of Neuropathy.
High blood sugar levels damage nerves over time.
Controlling blood sugar levels is critical to preventing and slowing Neuropathy from diabetes. Vitamin deficiencies: Low levels of vitamins B12 and E, niacin, and folate can contribute to nerve damage. Supplementing these vitamins and eating a balanced diet may help prevent or improve neuropathy symptoms.
2. Trauma
Physical injuries like fractures, sprains, and repetitive stress can damage nerves.
Protecting yourself from trauma and overuse injuries helps avoid Neuropathy from these causes.
3. Toxins
Exposure to toxic chemicals like heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic), solvents, and pesticides has been linked to Neuropathy.
Reducing exposure to known toxins and neurotoxins when possible can help.
Toxicity due to poisons. Certain heavy metals like lead and mercury lead to this Neuropathy.
This generally happens in case of “industrial” exposure to these chemicals.
4. Autoimmune diseases
Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome cause the immune system to attack nerves.
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying autoimmune condition to minimize nerve damage.
Infections Certain viral or bacterial infections, like shingles, HIV, Lyme disease, and syphilis, can inflame and damage nerves.
Antiviral or antibiotic treatment and managing symptoms help prevent long-term nerve issues from infections.
5. Inherited disorders
Genetic mutations cause some types of Neuropathy and can be inherited. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and Friedrich’s ataxia are two examples. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, physical therapy, mobility aids, and, in some cases, surgery.
By pinpointing the underlying cause of your Neuropathy, you and your doctor can develop a customized treatment plan to prevent further nerve damage, ease discomfort, and improve nerve function over time.
The key is catching the cause early and taking proactive steps right away.
6. Infections
Infections such as Leprosy, diphtheria, meningitis, encephalitis, and neurosyphilis can damage the brain and nervous system.
Viruses like herpes simplex, Epstein-Barr, and West Nile virus have also been linked to neurological problems.
Timely vaccinations and preventing infections can help reduce risk.
7. Aging
As we get older, the risk for neuropathy increases.
The prevalence of polyneuropathies is about 7% in older people.
However, other possible neuropathies should be considered.
Diabetes mellitus is the first cause of Neuropathy in the world.
Beyond 80 years old, the risk of finding no aetiology is about 40%, but it implies a minimum of initial exploration.
A vitamin deficiency, a dysimmune or even a hereditary cause should be eliminated in the elderly subject, considering the characteristics of age. As ageing is inevitable, a healthy lifestyle with a good diet, exercise, leisure activities, and mental stimulation may help prevent brain and nervous system disorders.
8. Disorders with bone marrow
Specific conditions of bone marrow can lead to neuropathic changes.
The prime condition for this is myeloma.
A condition where the abnormal protein in the blood appears – monoclonal gammopathies, is also responsible for neuropathic changes.
9. Diseases that can cause neuropathies
Kidney, liver, and connective tissue disorders are some of the other diseases that can cause neuropathies.
Signs and Symptoms of Neuropathy
Neuropathy can manifest through various symptoms, indicating your nervous system isn’t malfunctioning.
Let’s look into the signs and symptoms when it affects sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves.
In the case of sensory nerves:
- Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes
- Tingling or burning sensation
- Sharp pains or cramps
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Serious foot problems, such as ulcers, infections, and bone and joint pain
When motor nerves are affected:
- Weakness in affected muscles
- Lack of coordination in walking and doing things
- Constant falls during walking
- Feeling like wearing a glove on the affected region
- Complete paralysis of the affected muscle.
When autonomic nerves are affected
- Change in blood pressure
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- A lack of awareness that blood sugar levels are low (hypoglycemia unawareness)
- Bladder or bowel problems
- Slow stomach emptying (gastroparesis), causing nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite
- Changes in the way your eyes adjust from light to dark
- Decreased sexual response
- Harder to bear the heat
- Too much sweating
Different types of neuropathies
Peripheral Neuropathy
Your nervous system comprises two primary areas:
Your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral nervous system (all the remaining nerves throughout your body).
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves outside your brain and spinal cord, typically those in your extremities.
Diabetic Neuropathy is one of the most common types of peripheral Neuropathy, as uncontrolled blood sugar associated with diabetes damages your nerves, particularly those in the toes and feet.
Symptoms of peripheral Neuropathy include:
- Numbness
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
- Burning sensation
- Unable to feel temperatures
- Loss of coordination
- Pain
You can acquire peripheral Neuropathy as a result of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, thyroid and kidney diseases, shingles (called postherpetic neuralgia), Lyme disease, or AIDS (and other autoimmune diseases).
It can also result from alcoholism, certain medications (including chemotherapy), and malnutrition.
In addition, genetics plays a role.
Conditions passed on from parent to child, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, can lead to limb weakness.
Autonomic Neuropathy
When damage, disease, or irritation affects the nerves that control bodily functions, such as urination, bowel movements, heart rate, and blood pressure, it’s called autonomic Neuropathy.
Autonomic Neuropathy can stem from diabetes, alcohol abuse, or infections, as well as a spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or Guillain Barré syndrome, among other causes.
Signs of Autonomic Neuropathy
- Loss of urinary control (incontinence, urgency, hesitancy, frequency)
- Excessive sweating
- Diarrhea and or constipation
- Nausea and or vomiting
- Bloating
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Lightheadedness
- Sexual dysfunction
- Tingling and numbness in extremities
- Autonomic Neuropathy affects your ability to perform tasks without consciously thinking.
Focal Neuropathy
When encroaching tissues compress a single nerve, you have focal Neuropathy.
It may occur because of inflammation, a bone spur, or a herniated disc, or because of diabetes-related nerve damage.
One of the most common types of focal Neuropathy is carpal tunnel syndrome, where the nerve in your wrist becomes irritated and inflamed as the muscles and tendons tense and tighten around it.
- Pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Tingling
The most common locations for these symptoms are in the foot, leg, torso, and hands.
Cranial Neuropathy
Unlike the other types of Neuropathy, cranial Neuropathy affects the nerves in your brain, specifically the nerves that branch out from your brainstem.
These nerves control your ability to move, but they’re also responsible for the proper function of your facial expressions and eyesight.
Symptoms vary depending on the condition causing your cranial Neuropathy.
Microvascular cranial nerve palsy
Hypertension sometimes leads to microvascular cranial nerve palsy, which affects the nerves in your eyes.
Because high blood pressure and diabetes are closely linked, this type is common among people with diabetes.
Symptoms include vision problems, such as double vision.
Bell’s palsy
Your seventh cranial nerve controls your facial features, so damage to this nerve (called Bell’s palsy) can cause one side of your face to droop.
It’s typically caused by a virus that induces swelling, which puts pressure on the facial nerve.
Third, fourth, and sixth nerve palsy
Depending on which nerve is entrapped or compressed, you’ll experience symptoms explicitly related to that nerve.
Third, nerve palsy causes eyelid drooping and double vision; fourth, nerve palsy makes your eyes turn abnormally; and sixth, nerve palsy causes strange eye movement.
These conditions can be either hereditary or brought on by a stroke, injury, or tumour.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Neuropathy
The disease neuropathy cannot be directly correlated with any Vyadhi of Ayurveda.
However, similar symptoms can be seen in various vata vyadhi and as a complication of Prameha.
In diabetic Neuropathy, the symptoms are mainly lancinating pain, burning sensation, tingling sensation and numbness in hands and feet.
In certain vata vyadhi, a lack of bowel and bladder control can be seen.
So, the treatment mainly focuses on the doshas and is determined based on the patient’s symptoms.
Ayurveda views Neuropathy as a vitiation of Vata dosha, specifically Vyana Vata, which governs the movement of signals through the nervous system.
Several factors can provoke Vata and lead to Neuropathy, including:
- Exposure to cold, dry, and rough conditions
- Lack of nutrition to the nervous tissue (majja dhatu)
- Accumulation of toxins (ama) in the channels (srotas)
- Physical trauma or injury to the body
In Ayurveda, Vatadosha, particularly Vyana Vayu, performs the functions of peripheral nerves.
Normal Vatadosha functions include utsaha shakti (enthusiasm), shwasaprashwasakriya (respiration), chesta (motor and reflex activities), and so on; therefore, it acts as both a receptor and a stimulator.
A peripheral nerve’s function is to transmit signals from the spinal cord to the rest of the body or sensory information from the rest of the body to the spinal cord.
Nerve impulses can be associated with normal Vata Dosha functions because they originate, propagate, and travel anywhere.
As a result, peripheral Neuropathy is a disease caused by abnormal Vatadosha functions.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Neuropathy
Ayurvedic Treatment for Neuropathy includes internal and external therapies in the form of Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa.
According to Ayurveda, Nidana Parivarjana is the primary treatment for every disease.
In the context of Neuropathy, the causative factor can be Kaphavardhaka Ahara Vihara and it is advised to avoid it, which includes sweet, cold, oily and heavy foods.
Activities like lack of exercise, laziness and sedentary habits must also be avoided.
Along with this, internal medications, panchakarma chikitsa, are also necessary.
Internal medications
Internal medications help control the tridoshas after Shodhana Chikitsa or in combination with it.
Several formulations in Ayurveda possess neuroprotective effects, simultaneously managing the symptoms.
Here are some herbs to help protect the nerves from damage.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is rich in amino acids and vitamins that function as an adaptogen.
It assists the body in adapting to stressful situations and boosts energy and stamina.
Ashwagandha replenishes nerves and helps to balance energy levels.
It is an adaptogenic herb that reduces stress and anxiety, which can worsen neurological symptoms.
It contains compounds that may help to regenerate neuronal connections and protect nerve cells from damage.
Mix ashwagandha powder with warm milk before bedtime to improve nerve functioning, sleep, and relaxation.
Brahmi
Brahmi is a miraculous herb that helps reduce mental stress.
It helps to reduce the cortisol hormone, which is the primary cause of stress.
It contains active compounds that protect nerve cells from damage and stimulate the formation of new neural connections.
Brahmi powder can be consumed as is or mixed with ghee.
Turmeric or Curcumin
Turmeric is high in curcumin, a compound that has neuroprotective properties.
It reduces inflammation in the brain, promotes the formation of new cell connections, and protects nerve cells from further damage.
You can consume turmeric with ghee and black pepper or take curcumin and piperine supplements.
Guduchi
Guduchi is an adaptogenic and nourishing herb with sattvic qualities that help strengthen the nervous system, protect it from stress, and calm the mind. Loaded with antioxidants, it delays cell damage and improves strength.
Kapikacchu
Kapikachhu is a powerful nervine tonic.
It is a natural L-Dopa supplement that raises dopamine levels in the body. Dopamine levels must be maintained adequately for proper sensory function and mental agility.
It relaxes the senses and alleviates anxiety and stress.
Increased dopamine levels are thought to improve nerve conduction.
It naturally treats movement disorders associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinsonism and Alzheimer’s.
The drug has an intense Vata-Pitta hara action. Excited Vata causes rigidity, dryness, roughness, loss of function, and tingling sensations in the body.
Vacha
Vacha extract (Acorus calamus) reduced chronic constriction injury to the sciatic nerve and improved behavioural (hyperalgesia and allodynia), biochemical (superoxide anion, myeloperoxidase, and total calcium) and histopathological (axonal degeneration) changes.
Also it is found beneficial in reversing vincristine-induced painful Neuropathy.
In addition to individual herbs, Ayurvedic formulations known as rasayanas support neurological health.
Multiple herbs are combined in these preparations to achieve a synergistic effect.
Also, a daily intake of ghee and milk is considered one of the Rasayana therapies for rejuvenating the body.
Some of the common formations used for improving neuronal functions are:
Mahavata vidhwansa rasa, Ekangveer ras, Agnitundi vati, Balarishtam, Dhanwantaram kashaya, etc, are proven to be beneficial for restoring the neuronal connections and balancing the doshas.
Rasayana medicines like Triphala, Kapikachhu Churna, Amalaki Rasayana, Chyavanaprasha, Brahma Rasayana, etc can also rejuvenate the nerve cells and prevent their degeneration.
Therapies
Shodhana Chikitsa
In Panchakarma Chikitsa, purification of the body leads to maintaining their equilibrium.
Initially, Mridu Snehana is done, followed by the Dhanyamla Dhara, Patra Potali Swedam, and Shastika Shali Pinda Swedana.
Then Samshodhana is done by Vamana, Virechana.
Nasya, Basti, etc, are useful in the treatment of Neuropathy.
Ayurvedic Tridosha Shamaka herbs, especially Vatashamaka, Shothahara (Diuretic), Nadibalya (Nervine), and Vedana Sthapaka properties. Bala, Atibala, Ashwagandha, and Tila Taila have emollient and nourishing properties that may act by their myelin sheath repair properties nourish the nerves and improve their actions.
All these drugs have the property of Vatanashaka.
They may improve the myelin sheath repair property and the nerve conduction velocity, resulting in an overall improvement in the total health, primarily neurological health, of patients with Neuropathy
Abhyanga
After the initial Rookshana by Udvartana, Abhyanga should be done with oil, which is Vatahara and also indicated in Prameha.
This process alleviates Vata and improves the sensory perception of the skin as Vayu dominates the tactile sensory organ located in the skin.
e.g., Vatasini oil, Ksheerabala oil, Ashwagandha oil, Mahanarayana taila, Kshirabala taila, Sahacharadi taila, Mahamasha taila, Bala taila, and Dhanvantara Taila are beneficial in neurological diseases.
Udvartana
In the pathogenesis of Prameha, it is mentioned that due to the Bahu Drava Sleshma (~excess moisture content), the Sthirata (compactness) of the body’s muscles is lost.
As Udvartana is a procedure that decreases Kapha liquefaction of Medas, imparts Sthirata to the body, and helps in Tvak Prasadana (stimulates the skin by increasing the peripheral circulation), which was preferred.
In this case, Udvartana aims to provide the initial Langhana and sensitization of the skin by increasing the circulation.
Triphala churna, Yashti Triphala churna, Kolkulathadi Churna, Nisha Amalaki Churna can be used.
Swedana
Ksheera dhara, Patrapinda sveda, Sarvanga sveda (Steam treatment), Shashtika shali pinda sweda, Mamsa pinda sweda, etc, are proven to be highly beneficial in this condition as they reduce inflammation and nourish the nerves.
This treatment acts as both snehana and swedana.
When the procedure begins, due to the increased temperature of more than 2 to 3 degrees Celsius and the medicine’s pharmacological action, vasodilation will occur throughout the body.
Vasodilation increases blood flow through the area, supplying oxygen and nutrients while removing toxins.
The active ingredients of medicinal herbs help to act as muscle relaxants, reducing pain, inflammation, and stiffness.
Basti
Basti can break the pathogenesis of Vata Vyadhi by removing Margavarodha by purification of channels and Dhatukshaya by its Brihmana (nourishing) property.
Basti used in the case was mainly made of Tikta Rasa and Madhura Rasa. Maha Panchatikta Ghrita and Ashwagandha Taila (oil) were used to form Basti.
Tikta Rasa is used to treat Rakta Dosha and Raktavaha Srotodusti (pathogenesis in blood vessels). Tikta Rasa has Shothaghana (anti‑edematous and anti‑inflammatory) and Pittahara properties (suppression and elimination of deranged Pitta Dosha).
Ghṛita and honey have Madhura Rasa (sweet taste) dominance.
The combinations of these drugs may act as Vata Pittahara (suppressors and eliminators of deranged Vata and Pitta Doshas), which may reduce inflammation and treat the neuropathy condition.
Virechana
Purgation therapy to remove excess pitta dosha from the intestines. Cleanses the gut and blood, benefitting the nervous system.
Virechana is the best among Samshodhana for the elimination of Bahu Dosha in general and Pitta dosha in particular. it has an effect on Kapha Dosha also and regulates the movement of Vata and improves Agni.
Nasya
Instilling medicated oils such as Narayana taila and or Ksheerabala taila are beneficial in some instances of neuropathy where nerves supplying the upper extremities are involved.
Shirodhara or Shiro Pichu
Medicated liquids such as Mahakukkutamamsa taila, Ksheerabala taila, Maasha taila, Maha narayana taila, etc provide relief from numbness, paralysis, and pain sensation associated with peripheral Neuropathy.
Panchakarma should only be administered under the guidance of a trained Ayurvedic physician.
When performed correctly, Panchakarma can help remove deep-rooted toxins, relieve neurological pressure, nourish the nervous system, and restore balance to restore health.
Its detoxification and rejuvenation can help manage and even heal many neurological conditions. Panchakarma, along with appropriate diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies, offers a holistic solution for overcoming neurological disorders in an all-natural way.
Yoga and meditation
Asanas, pranayama, and meditation can also help to balance the nervous system, release pent-up emotions, and achieve inner peace.Parvatasana, merudandasana,
Talasana, and other yoga asanas (postures) have all been shown to be beneficial.
It can stimulate nerve endings and improve flexibility.
Anuloma Viloma, Nadi Shuddhi, and Bhramari pranayama, as well as meditation and Ashtanga yoga’s Yama and Niyama, help to turn off unwanted thoughts and cultivate awareness and inner peace.
These practices may help rewire your nerves.
Diet to Reverse Neuropathy
Ayurvedic approaches to neurological health emphasize the role of diet in overall well-being.
Ayurveda states that everyone has a unique constitution that necessitates a personalized diet, but general dietary guidelines can help most people maintain their neurological health.
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of eating nourishing, whole foods that are easy to digest, with omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds, and fatty fish particularly beneficial to brain health.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herbs and spices such as turmeric, ginger, and cumin are also suggested as substitutes for processed foods, refined sugars, and caffeine, which can disrupt dosha balance and harm neurological health.
It has been demonstrated that diets high in saturated fats impair cognitive processing, while diets high in omega-3 fatty acids enhance brain function.
The gastrointestinal tract secretes serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates sleep, appetite, and pain perception. Serotonin, along with neurons, is involved in the development of our emotions.
Anxiety, stress, and mental balance can be better managed with a diet that raises serotonin levels.
The following food groups should be included in a diet for nerve health: complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential fatty acids.
The body uses complex carbs for energy, while essential fatty acids make up most of the fat in the brain.
Preventing essential fatty acid function can be achieved by avoiding hydrogenated and trans fats.
Seven foods that help fight Neuropathy and improve the symptoms
Fruits
Antioxidants found in fruits help prevent nerve damage and manage inflammation.
Aim for one serving of fruit per day. Oranges, grapes, cranberries, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, and raspberries are all good for the nerves.
Berries and grapes, in particular, contain resveratrol, which shields the body from internal damage, not only help prevent nerve damage but also aid in healing.
Vegetables
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, vegetables are similar to fruits.
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant found in broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, and kale that can protect and enhance nerve function.
You should include potatoes and yams in your diet as well because they contain phytonutrients and alpha-lipoic acid, which help to reduce inflammation.
Whole grains
Select whole grains like buckwheat, millet, quinoa, brown rice, muesli and sprouted grain bread for your carbohydrates.
Essential B vitamins for the health of the brain and nerves are found in the grain’s outer shell, which is preserved in whole grains.
Avoid refined grains, such as white rice and bread, as they may exacerbate the symptoms of peripheral Neuropathy.
Nuts
Another excellent source of vitamin B is nuts.
Additionally, high in fibre, walnuts, cashews, almonds, and sunflower seeds help you feel fuller for longer and discourage overeating, which is something neuropathy sufferers should avoid
Legumes:
Legumes are rich in magnesium, promoting nerve regeneration and essential for regaining nerve function.
Naturally occurring legumes include chickpeas, fava beans, pinto beans, black beans, and lentils
Omega-3–rich foods:
As fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, research has shown that it can help repair damaged nerve tissue. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, salmon, tuna, cod, herring, sardines, mackerel, and other omega-3 foods help reduce inflammation and better regulate blood sugar. Resolvins, which are protective molecules that lessen neuropathy symptoms, are found in omega-3
Lean proteins
Vitamin B-12, present in meat products, enhances nerve impulse transmission, supports nerve healing, and is necessary for a healthy nervous system.
Include poultry in your diet, such as chicken and turkey, to support healthy nerve function.
Foods to avoid:
Foods high in sugar
It is best to avoid foods high in sugar as they can potentially exacerbate nerve pain and discomfort.
This covers processed foods, sweet snacks, and desserts.
Fried foods
Fried foods are unhealthy and may exacerbate symptoms of Neuropathy. They can upset the stomach and are hard to digest.
Gluten-containing grain products
People with Neuropathy may want to avoid refined carbohydrates like pizza, crackers, white bread, and pasta.
Stick to the unrefined carb options listed above, as there is a connection between nerve pain and gluten sensitivity, according to recent studies.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a toxin that can harm nerve cells and exacerbate symptoms of Neuropathy. Alcohol should be kept to a minimum if you have Neuropathy.
Caffeine
Caffeine can aggravate nerves and exacerbate the symptoms of Neuropathy.
Caffeine should be minimised or avoided if you are suffering from nerve pain.
Lifestyle Recommendation
- Consume food in moderation.
- A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for preventing nerve damage. Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidant-rich meals can help shield brain tissue from oxidative stress and inflammation. The diet should include berries, fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.
- Reducing refined sugar and saturated fat intake is also essential for maintaining brain health.
- Avoid excessively spicy, salty, high in calories (such as tapioca), oily, spicy-oil-salty pickles, etc.
- Refrain from snacking and restrict your daily eating to three meals.
- Stop eating late and have a light dinner, preferably before 8 pm.
- Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing your intake of rice or carbohydrates.
- For lunch, you can have buttermilk with ginger or turmeric, black pepper, and pure cow’s ghee.
- On the recommendation of an Ayurvedic specialist and depending on the disease’s stage, eggs, meat products, etc., can be consumed.
- Increase your consumption of manganese, vitamin B, and protein.
- Develop the routine of taking short walks, engaging in leisure activities, and napping in the afternoon on a recliner.
- Consider a restful night’s sleep as an investment in your well-being.
- Get a good six hours of sleep.
- Adhere to a proper dinacharya
- Distract yourself from worries and tensions.
- Have faith that you’ll triumph this time and build more robust physical attributes.
- This illness can be effectively managed by improving nutrition, way of life, and stress reduction techniques.
- Familial solid support is also essential.
- Restrict your alcohol intake, and abstain from smoking.
People can safeguard their nerve health by being physically active, maintaining a healthy diet, participating in mental activities, getting enough sleep—both in quantity and quality—building social networks, controlling stress, and abstaining from risky behaviours.
Making these lifestyle adjustments to support brain health is something you can do at any time.
Reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking can help people greatly lower their chance of developing nervous damage.
Conclusion
Ayurveda has the potential to provide effective treatment for Neuropathy when other treatments fail. It takes a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on balancing your doshas, reducing inflammation and toxicity in the body and mind, and implementing lifestyle changes. At the very least, following some Ayurvedic principles, such as living in harmony with nature, eating a balanced diet, reducing stress, and maintaining a healthy mind-body balance, can help you avoid nerve damage.
References
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/423713/
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/1638/1749
https://www.allresearchjournal.com/archives/2017/vol3issue2/PartD/3-2-23-564.pdf