Vertigo is a condition that causes the sensation of spinning and whirling in circles caused by lack of or disturbances in balance. Balance and equilibrium are sensed in the inner ear, so any medical conditions or injuries in this area may cause vertigo. Vertigo is debilitating and frustrating to those who suffer from it, brought on by any head movement. Medical approaches to treating vertigo may include medications and therapy to help the body increase levels of balance over time. However, taking a naturopathic or Ayurvedic approach may also produce beneficial and effective results.
Skullcap Rasayana
Skullcap Rasayana is known as an Ayurvedic drug for the treatment of migraines, headaches, dizziness and brain motor function. This remedy can be brewed by taking one teaspoon for each 50 pounds of body weight mixed into one cup of warm or hot water or milk on an empty stomach.
Massage
A naturopathic physician may attempt spinal massage and manipulation, trigger point acupressure or massage to treat symptoms of vertigo. Focus is placed on the sternocleidomastoid muscle at the front of the neck, the thick band of muscle that runs from the bottom of the ear to the base of the throat on either side of the neck.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is often used to treat conditions of the inner ear, which may reduce or relieve symptoms of vertigo for many patients. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy functions in a similar manner to a decompression pressure chamber, often used by deep-sea divers to improve the balance of oxygen in the blood.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, which comes from the maidenhair tree, may increase circulation in the body, especially in the small vessels, which are the same type found in the inner ear. Polish researchers found that vertigo caused by receptor defects or impairment could be drastically reduced by taking 120 mg doses of ginkgo biloba twice a day for 30 days.
Feverfew
Feverfew comes from a plant extract that is known to reduce inflammation in the body. It has been used for years to treat dizziness and vertigo and is believed to also improve blood circulation in small blood vessels, such as those found in the ear.
Piracetam
Piracetam, also known as Nootropil, is available by a doctor's prescription but has been used to treat vertigo with positive results. Designed to increase blood flow, it has undergone multiple studies in the 1980s and '90s with results displaying significantly reduced symptoms. It may be taken in 2,400 mg to 4,800 mg doses.
