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Neurological conditions
The content provided on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly advise readers to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
To reflect its medicinal nature rather than recreational use, we prefer the term ‘medical cannabis’ over terms such as ‘marijuana’, “grass”. or ‘dope’ which may carry negative connotations.
The opinions expressed in the blog belong to the respective authors, who are not medical professionals, and may not necessarily align with those of Lyphe Clinic. Lyphe Clinic does not endorse any specific products or services mentioned, except those provided through Lyphe Clinic.
Readers should be aware that the legality of medical cannabis varies by location, and this disclaimer may be subject to periodic updates.
Nerves send information from your brain and spinal cord to other parts of your body. When they’re damaged or irritated in some way, this can cause nerve pain. Hence, nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, is a condition that affects the nerves, causing them to send signals of pain through your body. Moreover, nerve damage can be caused by injuries (sprains), infections (shingles), autoimmune diseases and other serious conditions. Sometimes, it happens without any obvious cause at all.
Recognising the importance of alternative treatments, many are now seeking natural remedies for nerve pain as a complement or alternative to traditional medicine.
Current treatment for this condition includes both over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as topical treatments. The most common over-the-counter medications for nerve pain include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), like ibuprofen and aspirin. These are effective but can cause side effects, including stomach ulcers and bleeding.
Interest in natural nerve pain relief has increased in recent years. Many people are looking for more natural options that don’t have the side effects of prescription painkillers. This article will look at the best ways to manage nerve pain using natural remedies.
For many, finding alternative treatments to alleviate nerve pain is a priority. One such alternative that has been gaining attention in recent years is the use of medical cannabis. This herbal pain reliever may help address the many symptoms neuropathy patients suffer from while being safer to dose than most prescription medications.
Medical marijuana, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, contains various compounds known as cannabinoids. The most well-known of these compounds include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation and overall nerve function.
Research has shown that cannabinoids have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. A 2018 study from Current Pain and Headache Reports highlights that these plant-based compounds can significantly reduce pain intensity and improve the quality of life for patients with neuropathic pain. [1]
Medical marijuana has also been found to help regulate neurotransmitters in the nervous system, which can provide relief from nerve pain. One study from Phytotherapy Research found that cannabis contains antioxidant properties that may help protect against pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy and oxidative stress. [2]
Moreover, another 2018 review published in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine also suggests that cannabis treatment may be used as an adjunctive treatment for peripheral neuropathy. [3] A 2018 review published in Current Pain and Headache Reports suggests that medical weed for nerve pain is safe and effective for short-term, low-dose treatments. [4]
Nerve pain can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety, and vice versa. These conditions can cause muscle tension and worsen inflammation. [5] Medical cannabis, particularly high CBD doses, has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects.
Meanwhile, the interplay between nerve pain and headaches presents a significant challenge for many individuals. Nerve pain involves abnormal nerve signalling, which can lead to persistent discomfort and headaches. Headaches associated with any form of neuropathy may vary in type and intensity, affecting daily activities. [6]
Known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, CBD has been studied for its potential to alleviate both nerve pain and migraine. Although it has psychoactive effects, THC may also help reduce pain and inflammation associated with headaches.
For more information on managing headaches naturally, check out our blog posts on natural remedies for headaches and natural remedies for migraines.
When considering herbal solutions for nerve discomfort, it’s crucial to distinguish between legally regulated sources and those obtained through illicit channels. This distinction not only affects the effectiveness of the remedy but also the safety and legality of its use.
Aspect | Legally Regulated | Illicit or Black Market |
Quality Control | High standards, consistent potency, tested for purity | Unregulated, variable potency, risk of contaminants |
Legal Protection | Legal protection for users prescribed by professionals | Legal risks, potential for criminal charges |
Product Information | Clear labelling with detailed information | Lack of transparency, unknown ingredients |
Access | Accessible through authorised dispensaries or pharmacies | Risky and unreliable access points |
Getting a medical marijuana prescription for nerve pain is not easy. That’s why our experts at Lyphe are here to help. Our doctors can get you started on a treatment plan that will reduce your pain and improve your quality of life. Book an appointment today to see if medical weed is right for you!
Ginger root, a rhizome of the Zingiber officinale plant, is widely known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties are primarily attributed to the active compounds found in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols. Chronic inflammation is often associated with nerve pain; by reducing inflammation, ginger root can relieve neuropathic pain. [7]
Additionally, ginger has been found to protect the nervous system from oxidative stress and toxins. These two are major contributors to nerve damage and pain. A review published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that ginger has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain sensations after intense physical activity. [8]
By incorporating ginger root into your diet, you may experience reduced nerve pain and improved overall nerve health. There are several ways to incorporate ginger root into your daily routine to help alleviate nerve pain:
Capsaicin, the active component of chilli peppers, is a natural pain reliever that can help to relieve nerve pain. Capsaicin has been shown to be effective against neuropathic pain in three ways:
Current research also suggests that high‐concentration topical capsaicin can be used to treat postherpetic neuralgia, HIV neuropathy and painful diabetic neuropathy. [10][11] When experiencing nerve pain, you may want to try rubbing some capsaicin cream on the affected area as soon as possible after noticing the symptoms.
To learn more about herbal alternatives, read our blog posts on the best herbs for pain relief and herbs for back pain.
Yoga can benefit those suffering from nerve pain because it helps improve flexibility and mobility while improving strength and endurance. According to a 2019 review published in the Annals of Neurosciences, yoga can help manage spinal cord injury-induced neuropathic pain. It does so by improving nerve health by acting on receptors throughout the nervous system. [12]
Additionally, nerve flossing stretches can help prevent and relieve pain by down-regulating inflammatory responses. In effect, the activity restores healthy blood flow to the nerve and encourages efficient communication between the brain and body.
Yoga can also help strengthen muscles, which is a critical part of effective neuropathy treatment. By alleviating nerve pain, yoga can help improve the quality of life, increase the range of motion and boost the overall mood of people with neuropathy.
Vitamins play an important role in the regeneration of the nervous system. As such, you should ensure you include enough vitamins in your diet when dealing with nerve pain.
Several vitamins and supplements have been found to help relieve nerve pain, including:
Do note that it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or vitamins. Some supplements may interact with other medications or cause adverse side effects. In addition, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to consult a doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements.
Adopting a healthy diet is essential in managing nerve pain. A 2019 review published in Nutrition suggests that healthy dietary habits can significantly reduce pain perception in individuals experiencing both acute and chronic pain conditions. [26]
Nutritional recommendations include:
The following is a list of foods to avoid when dealing with nerve pain:
Lifestyle changes are perhaps the most important when it comes to addressing nerve pain. These changes can be broken into three categories: physical activity, sleep and stress reduction.
While there is no evidence that exercise alone will treat neuropathic pain, it may help improve overall health and quality of life. Exercise is often recommended as part of a multidisciplinary approach to treating chronic pain.
Regular exercise, combined with physical therapy, can help manage pain by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation and releasing endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers). It can also help people with nerve pain cope with symptoms by increasing their ability to move around and making them feel less depressed or anxious.
Types of exercises include:
Quality sleep is vital in managing nerve pain, allowing the body to repair damaged nerves and reduce pain sensitivity. Tips for improving sleep quality include:
Stress can exacerbate nerve pain by increasing inflammation and pain sensitivity. [27] Moreover, a 2024 review published in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews found that stress, depression, and neuropathy can be interrelated, often involving overlapping regions in the brain. [28] As such, managing stress must be a priority in a holistic nerve pain treatment program.
Techniques to manage stress and reduce nerve pain include:
At Lyphe, we deeply understand the challenges you face with nerve pain. That’s why we’re committed to offering a seamless and safe pathway to medical cannabis for nerve pain – a natural remedy recognised for its potential to alleviate such discomforts.
Here, we prioritise your health, ensuring access to high-quality, regulated medical weed through a process that’s both secure and straightforward. Let us guide you towards a life of less pain and more joy.
Ready to explore a natural path to managing your nerve pain? Schedule your consultation with Lyphe today and take the first step towards a brighter, less painful tomorrow.
Nerve pain can be a challenging and persistent condition to manage. But with the right approach, relief is possible. By exploring natural remedies for nerve pain (e.g., yoga, meditation, medical cannabis), individuals can find alternative solutions that may complement their existing treatment plan.
However, it is important to know that there remains no single cure or repair for damaged nerves (especially for severe cases). As such, it remains vital that you seek treatment from a doctor if your symptoms worsen or fail to improve after trying these natural treatments.
Looking to start a natural treatment plan for nerve pain? Our medical weed experts at Lyphe can help you get started. Book a call today and learn more about how medical cannabis can help you with neuropathy!
There are several dietary and lifestyle changes that you can incorporate to reduce the severity of symptoms. They include taking supplements, avoiding alcohol, avoiding stress and resting more.
Vitamin B12 is considered an essential nutrient for the nervous system, and its deficiency can lead to peripheral neuropathy. People who receive inadequate amounts of vitamin B12 may experience muscle cramps, burning sensations, weakness, twitching, pain, numbness and tingling.
Some foods that are good for nerve damage include tofu, dark leafy greens, fresh fruits, nuts and mackerel. It’s important to have a balanced diet, and you should also avoid eating too much salt and sugar to avoid flare-ups.
Nerves can recover on their own, but the extent of the recovery depends on several factors (e.g., severity and type of damage). In general, nerves recover slowly, and maximal recovery may take many months or years.
In some cases, damaged nerves can regenerate and restore function slowly with treatment to speed up the process. However, severe cases may lead to irreversible damage.
Lyphe is your patient-first path to wellness, so book an appointment with one of our medical cannabis expert Doctors and get the relief you need.
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