Diabetic nerve pain or neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that develops due to the temporary or permanent damage to the nerves as a result of hyperglycemia. According to MedlinePlus, almost 50 percent of diabetes patients develop neuropathy but the symptoms, which can range from diarrhea, nausea and dizziness to muscle cramps, numbness and burning sensation in the feet, usually begin 10 to 20 years after the initial onset of diabetes. Apart from pain medications and antidepressant drugs, certain herbs may also help manage the symptoms of diabetic nerve pain.
Evening Primrose Oil
The oil extracted from the seeds of evening primrose plant, native to the United States, is rich in linoleic and gamma-linoleic acid and may help reduce the tingling, numbness and pain of feet and lungs associated with diabetic neuropathy, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Evening primrose oil is available in capsule and oil form and is generally safe. Side effects such as upset stomach, diarrhea and headache may indicate an overdose. Evening primrose oil may interact with certain medications and it is best to talk to a doctor before taking this herb.
Centella Asiatica
Centella asiatica, or gotu kola, is a slender plant found in swampy, tropical regions of the world. The results of some animal studies published by Oregon Health and Science University in October 2007 indicate that Centella asiatica may help reverse the nerve damage that occurs in patients suffering from diabetic nerve pain. Centella asiatica is usually consumed as a tea and is generally safe. Upset stomach and liver damage may occur. Take this herb only under the supervision of a physician.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chemical found in chili peppers that causes a hot feeling and red face when you bite a pepper. The National Institute of Pain and Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that capsaicin helps relieve pain by interfering with the transmission of pain signals to the brain and may help treat a variety of pain conditions. A study published in the January-February 2003 edition of the "Journal of the American Board of Family Practice" also suggests that capsaicin may help relieve the diabetic neuropathy pain. Capsaicin is safe to use, although mild burning sensation may occur at the site of application. Severe allergic reactions may rarely occur. Do not use this medication without consulting a physician.
St. John's Wort
The flowering tops of the St. John's wort plant are made into teas, capsules, tablets and liquid extracts and may possess anti-depressant properties. The "Journal of the American Board of Family Practice" article says that St. John's wort may help relieve the shooting nerve pain in diabetic patients. The National Center for Complementary and Alternate Medicine, however, warns that this herb can lead to upset stomach, increased sensitivity to light and sexual dysfunction and therefore, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking it.
References
- MedlinePlus: Diabetic neuropathy
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Evening primrose oil
- Oregon Health and Science University: OHSU Examines Herb's Effects On Diabetic Neuropathy
- "Journal of the American Board of Family Practice"; Botanicals and dietary supplements in diabetic peripheral neuropathy.; Halat KM and Dennehy CE.; January - February 2003
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Pain: Hope Through Research
- NCCAM: St. John's Wort
