Herbs for Sciatic Pain

Sciatic pain can be unbearable, causing pain to radiate down the leg and up the hip and back area. Sciatica is not an actual condition but a set of symptoms. The symptoms can be dealt with, in many cases, with herbs that help to relieve the inflammation of the tissues surrounding the sciatic nerve. Many patients have found that the herbs provide the relief they have been in search of but have not been able to find through modern medicine.

Stinging Nettle Bath

Those suffering from sciatic pain may find that they benefit from a bath prepared with an herb called stinging nettle. This herb is a traditional choice for dealing with pain. To prepare the bath start with four cups of cold water and as many leaves as will fit into the water fully submerged. Soak the leaves for up to 12 hours. After soaking the leaves, strain the mixture keeping only the water and then heat. Run a hot bath and pour the stinging nettle bath into the water. Soak in the hot bath for 20 minutes. Upon exiting the bath wrap in a warm bath towel or robe and lie in a bed for one hour under covers to induce a sweat and allow for the herbal treatment to take effect.

Help from Chamomile

Chamomile is an herb that is known for calming and healing the body. The herb can be added to a small amount of olive oil to create a topical product that can be massaged onto the affected areas. In addition, you can also make a tea out of chamomile herbal extract by adding 20 drops to a tea or any liquid. Chamomile can be used daily to help soothe the affected areas of the body.

St. John's Wort Massage Oil

St. John's Wort is an herb that has been found to be very effective in relaxing and soothing the nerves. Many people have found that combining 10 drops of St. John's Wort with a couple tablespoons of olive oil makes a great massage oil that can easily be rubbed onto the back of the leg or the back to provide some relief from sciatic pain.

Soothing the Nerves

Emotional stress often causes the muscles and nerves of the body to become tense, eventually causing pain. Herbs to help both the emotions and the nerves include borage, lemon balm, and valerian. These herbs can be found in tea form and can be consumed up to three times per day while suffering from sciatica. Not only will the herbs help to calm the emotions but it will also help to relieve inflammation and tension in the muscles and nerves, helping to relieve sciatic pain. These teas are especially effective when combined with other herbal remedies aimed at relieving pain.