Herbal Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal tunnel syndrome has been around for a very long time but it didn't become a household word until the 80's when personal computers became so prevalent. Typists are the main constituents of this syndrome but it does occur in anyone who uses their fingers a lot, like musicians and factory workers. It was also widespread among checkout clerks before the days of scanners came along. Your local grocery store clerk had to "punch in" the price of every item you purchased. I personally think we got through the checkout line much faster back then. Those girls could punch some numbers quickly.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the nerves that pass through the tunnel in the wrist bones. Many people experience pain, weakness, and pins and needle sensations, as well as stiffness of the fingers.

The best treatment for CTS is prevention. If you work at a computer or any job that requires the use of your hands, you should stop frequently and take breaks. Another preventative is to do wrist and hand exercises. Many people use Chinese massage balls. You simply take these two balls in one hand and roll them around. After a few minutes, switch hands.

Women are more likely to get CTS than men. A woman's monthly cycle, pregnancy, and menopause cause swelling in the tissues around the carpal tunnel and can eventually lead to CTS.

Willow bark, or nature's aspirin, can help with the pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. Simply steep a few tablespoons of bark in water for about ten minutes. Strain the bark out and drink as a tea. If you don't like the taste you can try adding some lemonade or honey.

Camomile is best known as a nerve tonic and would be a good choice since CTS involves the nerves in the wrists. Camomile also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used widely in Europe for inflammation.

Bromelain, or pineapple, is another anti-inflammatory agent that is known to reduce swelling, pain and inflammation. It is also very safe to consume and makes a delicious treat.

Red pepper, or cayenne, contains pain relieving compounds and anti-inflammatory compounds. It can be taken internally or added to white cold cream to make a pain relieving cream that is less expensive than commercial preparations. The cream will turn pink when red pepper is added but can be used on many parts of the body. You should avoid contact with your eyes until you have washed the cream off your hands as this can burn the eyes.

Spices that could be added to your food for anti-inflammatory properties are turmeric, cumin and sage. You can come up with a number of dishes that these herbs would taste good in and provide the needed benefits as well.

You should also get plenty of the vitamin B6, which can be found in cauliflower, watercress, bananas, spinach and okra. See, delicious dishes are just around the corner.