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Ayurvedic medicine stemming from the ancient Indian medical system relies on a holistic approach to health and wellness, integrating natural herbal remedies and supplements into treatment methods. This system of care still remains an integral part of the healthcare approach many parts of India still use today, while it has been spread and adopted in communities throughout the world, often used to supplement other alternative methods of care. In fact, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), an estimated 240,000 American adults use Ayurvedic medicine today.

While there have been far fewer documented and heavily researched areas of Ayurveda in comparison to modern pharmaceuticals, there have still been a number of well-designed experimental settings that strongly support the case for Ayurvedic medicine’s effectiveness. For example, one study observed the same reductions in pain and improvements in function in a group of participants with knee osteoarthritis who were given ayurvedic compounds against a control group who was given conventional drug treatments. Other studies have outlined the effectiveness many ayurvedic herbs have had on treating and controlling diabetes. And while for many serious illnesses and medical conditions conventional pharmaceutical drugs may be necessary, ayurvedic treatments and supplements can prove to be highly effective in aiding in speeding up recovery, improve drug effectiveness, and produce other advantageous benefits.

Ayurvedic Herbs and Nerve Strength

As we get older, many people experience muscle fatigue, weakness, or limitations in mobility, oftentimes due to the degeneration of nerve signaling from the brain and down through the spinal cord to muscles in the body. However, this doesn’t always just occur as we age – other forms of nerve weakness may be caused by a pinched nerve, low blood sugar, multiple sclerosis, and other conditions.

According to a study published in the Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, the use of ayurvedic herbal medicines to treat neuropathic pain has been growing throughout the world. Many of these herbal compounds are known to reduce inflammation (which can cause nerve pain and mobility inhibition), while others are recognized for their ability to improve communication between cells in the brain and the nervous system.

Here are just a few of the herbal ayurvedic remedies used to treat nerve weakness and neuropathic pain.

1. Tarragon

This herb is a perennial plant that comes from the sunflower family. While it’s commonly used in cooking for its flavorful characteristics, it has been used to treat pain management and inflammation for hundreds of years. In one study that observed the effects of Tarragon on pain management for individuals with Osteoarthritis, researchers found it to be an effective alternative to traditional pain medications used to treat this condition. In addition to aiding in the treatment of nerve weakness and pain, Tarragon is also recognized for its ability to improve sleep patterns and regulate rest.

2. Turmeric

If you’ve journeyed into ayurvedic medicine before, it’s likely that you’re already familiar with this powerful plant. Turmeric is an herb that belongs to the ginger family, and is recognized for its powerful benefits on easing inflammation, possibly preventing heart disease, and reducing the risk of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin is the primary active ingredient in Turmeric, and is the compound that is responsible for most of the benefits it can have on health. Many studies show that curcumin is an effective herbal remedy for improving the health status of the elderly by delaying aging and significantly reducing inflammation. Other studies have revealed its efficacy on specific neuropathic pain ailments, such as patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Finally, turmeric has also been studied to have a similar level of effectiveness against pharmaceuticals like Prozac used to treat depression. As an all-around powerhouse of an herb, turmeric is a supplement you should consider for its multitude of benefits on both the body and the brain.

3. Gingko Biloba

If you’re a regular reader of this site, you’ve also probably encountered information about Gingko Biloba before as well. This herbal remedy is native to traditional Chinese medicine, and has been harvested for its health benefits for over a thousand years. Along with providing a powerful array of antioxidants, this plant has been studied to be highly effective in fighting ageing-related diseases. This means that it is not only effective in strengthening and protecting brain cells against diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, but it has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in treating nerve weakness. Some studies even show that Gingko Biloba may increase perceived well-being, mood, and mental performance in humans.

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4. Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Holy Basil is regarded as one of the most predominant herbs used in the ayurvedic tradition. In fact, according to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, it is also one of the most studied herbs in western research settings. As an adaptogen, Holy Basil is recognized for its ability to help humans and animals adapt to stressful situations and regulate mood. With regard to neuropathic pain specifically, studies have shown that Holy Basil is attributed to a decrease in oxidative stress and calcium levels in rats with injury-induced neuropathic pain. Studies like this reveal Holy Basil’s potential to be used to treat nerve weakness naturally.

5. Phyllanthus Niruri

Also known as Gale of the Wind, this plant is a weed found in many coastal areas, and is harvested for its leaves and fruit that can be extracted and used as herbal medicine. Along with many antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, studies have also revealed that Phyllanthus is highly effective in reducing inflammation and stomach ulcers. However, this plant is most widely recognized for its role in improving liver health. In fact, studies have revealed that Phyllanthus can even be effective in protecting the liver against damage caused by pain medication such as acetaminophen.

6. Rosemary

Not only does this beautiful plant smell incredible, but Rosemary extract is also widely recognized for many health benefits ranging from increasing circulation and easing stress, to stimulating hair growth and repelling certain insects. Like most of the other herbal remedies mentioned on this list, it has also been researched for its effectiveness on reducing inflammation. For example, one study performed on rat subjects revealed that Rosemary Essential Oil (REO) had significant anti-inflammatory effects in a number of hot-plate tests. On another study using human participants with rheumatoid arthritis, 15-minute knee massages were administered three times every week for two weeks, with one set of participants receiving a rosemary oil blend with their massage. The group that was given the rosemary blend experienced a 50% decrease in knee pain and inflammation, compared to the 12% decrease experienced by the group who did not receive the rosemary oil blend.

7. Valerian Root

While Valerian Root is most commonly recognized for its benefits on rest and sleep, a multitude of research also reveals that this plant is also effective for treating nerve weakness. As an herb native to Asia and Europe, the flowers from this plant were traditionally used to make perfume many centuries ago. However, Valerian’s root portion has been extracted for thousands of years to produce teas and powders that have a number of benefits on the body. In fact, Valerian Root has been studied to produce protective effects on the nervous system for patients experiencing Parkinson’s Disease. While inflammation and oxidation stress are regarded as the contributing factors for neurodegeneration in this condition, Valerian Root extract has shown to be effective in protecting vulnerable cells.

8. Alstonia Scholaris

Alstonia is a lesser-known tropical tree that is native to the Indian subcontinent and parts of southeast Asia and Australia. While extract from the leaves of this plant is commercially available in traditional Chinese medicine (for the treatment of chronic respiratory diseases), it is also known to be effective in reducing inflammation and treating nerve weakness. For example, one study that observed mice in hot-place experimental settings found that Alstonia significantly produced both anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

A Note about Potential Drug Interactions

If you are considering an ayurvedic remedy for nerve weakness and you are already taking prescribed medications to treat your condition, talk to your doctor before starting an herbal regimen. While the majority of herbal supplements on this list are unlikely to cause adverse interactions with most medications, it is possible that some herbs may reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs.

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An Introduction to Ayurveda

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Ayurveda is the traditional, ancient Indian system of health science. Its name literally means, "life knowledge." The Ayurvedic method of holistic healthcare emphasizes balancing the body, mind, and spirit to treat and prevent disease. This 5,000-year-old practice focuses on harmonizing the body with nature through diet, herbal remedies, yoga and meditation, exercise, lifestyle, and body cleansing. It is considered the sister science of yoga.

History of Ayurveda

Understood to be the oldest and most holistic medical system in the world, Ayurveda was developed around 3,000 BCE. The wisdom of this healing method was passed down through ancient Indian spiritual texts, called the "Vedas." There are four major Vedas, each of which describes, in some parts, the principles of health, disease, and treatment. One of these texts, the "Rig Veda" (also known as "Rik Veda" or "Rigveda"), is one of the oldest known books of any Indo-European language.

The Rig Veda contains philosophical verses on the nature of existence, as well as information on the three basic human constitutions (see "The Doshas" below). It discusses the use of herbs to heal the mind and body, and to keep oneself young. Another Veda, the "Atharva Veda," contains information on everything from internal medicine and surgery, to infertility and psychiatry. The "physicians" at the time of the Vedas were "rishis" — sages or seers, holy people — who viewed health as an overall integration between mind, body, and spirit.

Knowledge of Ayurveda spread from India, influencing other ancient systems, including Chinese medicine and the ancient Greek medicine practiced by Hippocrates. Because of its influence, Ayurveda is known as the "Mother of all healing."

In the 1970s, Ayurvedic teachers from India began traveling to the United States and Europe, sharing their teachings of holistic health. Today, there are Ayurvedic colleges all over the world.

The Doshas

At the heart of Ayurveda is the principle of "doshas," which are the metabolic types or bodily humors that make up a person’s constitution. The doshas are the essential forces behind an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional makeup. There are three doshas, "Vata," "Pitta," and "Kapha."

According to Ayurveda, everything in the world is composed of five elements: Earth, air, fire, water, and space. These elements combine to form the doshas. Everyone has his or her own particular balance of these elements — everyone has a unique dosha. When your dosha becomes imbalanced, the natural flow of "prana" (Sanskrit for "life force energy") becomes disrupted. This disruption causes a build-up of toxic waste in the body, mind, and spirit, which creates disease.

To truly determine your dosha, it’s best to visit an Ayurvedic practitioner or physician. However, learning some general characteristics can point you in the right direction. Read on for basic information about each dosha. Also, check out iSport’s guide, How to Determine Your Dosha, to get a general sense of your own constitution! Note that it’s very common to have a combination of two doshas, such as Vata-Pitta, Pitta-Kapha, or Vata-Kapha. Equal balance across all three doshas is very rare, though it does occur.

Vata

The Vata dosha is a combination of air and space. In general, Vata people are creative, active, and changeable. They’re the ones who are always on the go! They may take on many different activities, but they tire easily and require much sleep. They are typically slim, angular, and long-limbed, with dry skin. They may sometimes forget to eat. Vata people are "idea people," coming up with many imaginative, unique solutions to problems. However, they may lack the follow-through to successfully realize all of their ventures. A Vata imbalance can result in excess nervous energy, fear, mental confusion, and anxiety. The physical results are gas, constipation, poor circulation, and insomnia.

Pitta

The Pitta dosha is a combination of fire and water. Pitta people are competitive, driven, and perfectionists, traits that can be desired qualities in a teammate! However, they can also become overly aggressive, jealous, and critical. They usually have a medium build with well-defined muscles, and strong, warm hands. They also have hearty, dependable appetites. Because of the fire quality in this dosha, Pitta people tend to have higher body temperatures, and they are very sensitive to direct sunlight and heat. Excessive Pitta can cause anger and overblown tempers. The physical results of Pitta imbalance are ulcers, indigestion, and skin irritations, such as cold sores or acne.

Kapha

The Kapha dosha is a combination of water and earth. Overall, Kapha people are calm, kind, and loving. They’re the ones who are always baking cookies or offering a warm hug. However, their patient natures can also lead to laziness and over-attachment. Though they may learn and move slowly, they have excellent memories and follow-through. Kapha people tend to be big-boned and amply built, with large, soft eyes and cool hands. They love to eat, but they can go for long periods between meals. Imbalances in Kapha can cause withdrawal, depression, and reclusive tendencies. Physically, this can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and excess mucus — resulting in coughs, sinus infections, and other congestion-related disorders.

An Ayurvedic Lifestyle

Dosha imbalances are often the result of poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Ayurveda seeks to restore equanimity by treating the whole person, not just the symptom of the imbalance. A typical Ayurvedic lifestyle plan includes:

Diet

Recommendations are based on each person’s individual temperament and the season. Certain foods will balance or create imbalance. Fresh vegetables, whole grains, and certain legumes, nuts, and dairy products can provide healthy stabilization for each dosha. In general, though, the recommendations to prevent imbalances for each dosha are:

• Vata: Limit cold, crunchy, and salty foods and carbonated and caffeinated drinks.
• Pitta: Limit spicy, fried, and meaty foods and excessive alcohol.
• Kapha: Limit creamy, sweet, and overly heavy foods and drinks.

Exercise

Regular exercise is vital for overall health and well-being. In Ayurveda, the type, intensity, and amount of physical activity required are determined on an individual basis.

Yoga & Meditation

Calming the mind and learning to listen to one’s body are essential techniques for becoming more in tune with nature. Practicing yoga and meditation helps all doshas become more balanced.

Cleansing

Internal cleansing is often done through fasting and diets, though some practitioners also include enemas. External cleansing is done on a daily basis, typically using oils, a natural-bristle body brush, and tepid water.

Massage

Massage and self-massage are not just luxuries in Ayurveda, but essential parts of daily life! A soothing touch nourishes the emotions and spirit, while physically encouraging healthy circulation and the release of toxins.

Herbs

Herbs are an important part of Ayurveda, used in everything from cooking, tea, and medicine, to aromatherapy. Examples of Ayurvedic herbs include Triphala, Ashwaganda, and Gotu Kola.

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