Nerve pain---also known as neuralgia---is a distressing sensation in the body's nerves. It may be caused by a number of factors, including diabetes, shingles and tissue inflammation. There are a variety of medications for treating chronic nerve pain, though some may cause unwanted side effects. In some cases, herbal supplements may help relieve nerve pain and associated symptoms as effectively as pharmaceutical treatments.
Evening Primrose
Evening primrose is a flowering plant that grows wild throughout the United States. Its seeds are rich in gamma-linoleic acid---an Omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. According to the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, evening primrose oil may help alleviate nerve pain while improving nerve function. Taking an Omega-3 supplement with evening primrose oil helps provide a more ideal balance of the fatty acids and may result in even greater improvement.
The daily dose of gamma-linoleic acid recommended for nerve pain is roughly 8 percent, or 2 to 8 g evening primrose oil. Side effects include mild nausea, stomach pain and diarrhea, which may indicate a too-high dose.
Kratom
Mitragyna speciosa, commonly known as kratom, is an herbal pain reliever with opiate-like properties. The leaves are traditionally chewed or brewed into tea for their effects, which may include relaxation, euphoria and analgesia. According to the National Institutes of Health, mitragynine---a compound in kratom---binds to opioid receptors in the brain, making it an effective remedy for opiate withdrawal. Opioid receptors play a vital role in pain perception and are the target of painkillers like codeine and morphine.
Because its effects may be perceived as pleasant by some users, kratom lends itself to abuse and dependence. Do not use kratom without a doctor's supervision, especially if you suffer from depression or other mental disorders. People with a history of substance abuse should avoid kratom. Taking kratom with other depressants like alcohol can lead to an increased risk for cardiac arrest, respiratory depression and death.
Jamaica Dogwood
Jamaica dogwood (Piscidia erythrina) can be an effective remedy for nerve pain. It has been used traditionally to treat insomnia, anxiety, neuralgia and inflammatory conditions like arthritis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Jamaica dogwood is effective in relieving pain, muscle spasm and inflammation---all of which may be associated with conditions that cause nerve pain.
Unfortunately, Jamaica dogwood can be deadly. It contains rotenone, which acts as a poison in fish and parasites like fleas and lice. While not known to be toxic in mammals, rotenone has the potential to cause dangerous side effects. Symptoms of poisoning may include tremor, excessive sweating and salivation. Only use Jamaica dogwood under the close supervision of a doctor.
