Numerous supplements may help treat your nerve pain. According to MedlinePlus, neuralgia, or nerve pain, is pain that follows the path of a nerve. Nerve pain may be caused by numerous factors, including certain drugs, chemical irritation, diabetes, infections, nerve compression, inflammation and trauma. In some cases, the cause of nerve pain is unknown. Before taking supplements to treat your nerve pain, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Valerian
Valerian, also known as Valeriana officinalis, may be a beneficial supplement for treating your nerve pain. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), valerian is a plant native to Europe and Asia that has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries. The roots and rhizomes, or underground stems, of valerian are used to make supplements, including capsules, tablets and liquid extracts. This herb can also be consumed as a tea. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book, "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth," states that valerian is an antispasmodic, anticonvulsant and relaxing nervine, or a substance that acts upon or affects your nerves. Valerian may also be used to treat emotional stress, anxiety, nervous irritation, shingles and backaches. Before taking valerian, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Kava Kava
Kava kava may be helpful for treating your nerve pain. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) states that kava kava, also known as Piper methysticum, has been used as a ceremonial drink in the Pacific Islands for centuries. The drink's effects are purported to be similar to an alcoholic drink. Kava kava is best known for its relaxing qualities, and it is reported to enhance your mood, increase your sense of well-being and contentment and generate feelings of relaxation. According to Tilgner, kava kava is a sedative, hypnotic, antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and mild anticonvulsant. Kava kava has been used for general pain relief, although it is specific for pain associated with nervous tension and spasms. The UMMC states that the active ingredients in kava kava are called kavalactones, or kavapyrones. Before taking kava kava as a dietary supplement for your nerve pain, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Passionflower
Passionflower may be an effective dietary supplement to reduce your nerve pain. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), passionflower, also known as Passiflora incarnata, may be used to treat numerous health conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, epilepsy, opiate withdrawal and neuralgia. The active agent or ingredient and mechanism of action associated with passionflower is unknown. The above-ground parts of the passionflower, including the flowers, leaves and stems, are used for medicinal purposes. Tilgner states that passionflower is an antispasmodic, hypotensive, sedative, anti-inflammatory and nervine. In addition to treating nerve-related pain, passionflower may also be used for heart palpitations and sleep disturbances caused by nervousness. Before taking passionflower as a dietary supplement to treat your nerve pain, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
