Herbs for Numbness

Numbness in the arms, legs, hands and feet often indicates circulatory problems. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," circulatory problems that cause numbness include Buerger's disease, Raynaud's phenomenon and varicose veins. Certain herbs are commonly recommended by alternative health professionals to promote circulation. If you are experiencing numbness, contact a health care professional immediately. Do not use herbs to treat numbness without a doctor's supervision.

Horsetail

Horsetail is often recommended, by holistic health professionals, to improve circulation and treat numbness. According to "The Healing Herbs," by Michael Castleman, horsetail was used in ancient medical practices by both the Chinese and the Romans. In addition to its use to aid in circulation, horsetail is used to treat arthritis and is a mild diuretic. Do not use horsetail if you are pregnant, as it may cause birth defects. Possible side effects include upset stomach and diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms while using horsetail, decrease the dosage or discontinue use completely. The safety of this herb has not yet been determined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh provides another herbal option for the treatment of numbness. According to "The Healing Herbs," black cohosh opens the blood vessels, lowering the blood pressure and promoting circulation. In addition to its effect on the circulatory system, black cohosh is used to alleviate the symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is also thought to be beneficial in the treatment of prostate cancer. Possible side effects include light-headedness, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting,abdominal pain, vision problems, tremors, headache, joint pain and decreased heart rate. Black cohosh has estrogen-like properties that may also cause abnormal blood clotting, breast tumors and liver problems. Do not use black cohosh if you are pregnant.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn is a third herbal treatment possibility for relieving numbness. According to "The Healing Herbs," hawthorn is best known for its ability to treat heart disease. It is reputed to increase the pumping force of the heart, open the coronary arteries and limit cholesterol build-up in the arteries. In addition to promoting heart health, these functions improve circulation and aid in treating numbness. Possible side effects include extreme lowering of the blood pressure. Hawthorn may also have a sedative effect, resulting in drowsiness or lethargy. The safety of this herb has not yet been determined by the FDA. Avoid use if you are pregnant or nursing.