Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by pain and weakness in the hands and forearms that occurs when there is too much pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It may be caused by a number of factors, including precision manual labor, rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy. If you have this condition, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or he may suggest you wear a wrist splint to help take pressure off the compressed nerve. Some herbs may help to reduce pain and inflammation, although there is no scientific evidence to support their use in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Talk to your doctor before using herbal medicines.
Examples
The University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, cites several herbs that may be beneficial for people with carpal tunnel syndrome, including turmeric and cat's claw, both of which may have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is an herb commonly used to flavor foods but is also used as a traditional remedy for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Cat's claw is a woody vine native to South America that is also used to treat inflammatory conditions. Consult with your doctor before using either of these herbs.
Efficacy
Studies examining the role of herbal medicine in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome are lacking. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, notes there is little reliable evidence to support the use of turmeric or cat's claw for any health condition. Although cat's claw has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies, its ability to reduce inflammation in humans has not been proven.
Use
UMMC recommends taking 300 mg of a standardized extract of turmeric three times daily to reduce pain and inflammation. Alternatively, you may prefer to take 20 mg of a standardized extract of cat's claw three times daily. These doses and treatment schedules are intended as a guideline only. Talk to a doctor about what is right for you.
Side Effects
NCCAM notes that turmeric is likely safe for adults; however, long-term use or taking high doses of this herb may cause side effects, including nausea and diarrhea. Cat's claw may lower your blood pressure and cause diarrhea.
Contraindications
Cat's claw may interact with a number of drugs, including anti-hypertensive drugs and protease inhibitors such as ritonavir. It may also heighten the effects of anti-coagulant drugs such as aspirin. Do not take turmeric if you have gallbladder disease, as it may make your condition worse. Talk to a doctor before using either of these herbs.
Member Comments