Trigeminal neuralgia is sudden and extreme facial nerve pain or discomfort. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that trigeminal neuralgia-related face pain may be piercing, electrical shock-like, stabbing, throbbing, burning or aching. Trigeminal neuralgia-related pain usually lasts several seconds to several minutes, notes the Service.
Diagnosis
PubMed Health states that trigeminal neuralgia face pain is caused by impingement of your trigeminal nerve, a cranial nerve that has its origin in your brain. Brain tumors or blood vessels are possible causes of trigeminal nerve impingement, although certain medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, may also cause this condition. Various triggers may bring on trigeminal neuralgia, including eating, drinking, chewing, shaving and light stroking of your face. Trigeminal neuralgia-related face pain is usually unilateral, or occurs on only one side of your face.
Treating Symptoms
Three of the most important herbs in treating neuralgia, or nerve pain, are henbane, Jamaican dogwood and St. John's wort, says herbalist and naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell in his book "Plant Medicine in Practice." Examples of nerve relaxants, or herbs that help soothe and quiet your nervous system, include valerian, skullcap, passionflower and black cohosh. Herbs that possess anti-inflammatory action, such as cayenne and turmeric, may be helpful for this condition, too.
Highlighted Herb
Jamaican dogwood is frequently prescribed in the treatment of neuralgia, including trigeminal neuralgia. According to Mitchell, Jamaican dogwood is used to treat facial, brachial or arm and sciatic neuralgia. Jamaican dogwood, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center, is also used to help treat migraine, insomnia, anxiety, fear and nervous tension. Jamaican dogwood is a plant indigenous to Florida and certain parts of Central America and the West Indies.
Professional Counsel
Because the causes of trigeminal neuralgia may be life-threatening, always visit your doctor for a full and thorough evaluation if you experience extreme face pain. A health care professional can provide you with an accurate diagnosis of your condition and present you with relevant and helpful treatment options. Health care practitioners knowledgeable in herbal medicine can counsel you on what herbs to take, how to take herbs and when you should discontinue use.
References
- National Health Service: Trigeminal Neuralgia
- PubMed Health: Trigeminal Neuralgia
- "Plant Medicine in Practice;" William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Jamaica Dogwood
