8 natural remedies to say goodbye to sciatic pain

Sciatica is characterized by symptoms of leg pain, starting in the lower back, spreading into the buttock and sometimes going all the way to the foot. It is not a medical diagnosis per se, but rather a symptom of an underlying medical condition. A herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis (disease of the spine), or spinal stenosis can cause symptoms of sciatica.

The intensity of the pain can vary, from infrequent and irritating to constant and debilitating. If you feel the contractions are mild and you don't think it's worth seeing a doctor, keep reading this article. We offer you 8 natural remedies that will relieve your pain and the discomfort caused by it. Nevertheless, we would like to remind you that self-medication is not always a good idea, especially when you do not know the origin of your illness. So, if the discomfort persists or if the pain intensifies, consult a doctor immediately.

8 natural solutions to soothe your sciatic pain

1) A compress

Alternating hot then cold compresses can be very useful in case of sciatic pain. Indeed, hot compresses will improve blood circulation, and cold compresses will relieve inflammation and pain.

2) Turmeric

Several studies have confirmed the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of turmeric. Thanks to the curcumin it contains, it effectively relieves inflammation and reduces oxidative stress. In addition, a study conducted by the neurosurgery department of Di Venere Hospital, Italy, demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric to treat lumbar sciatica pain is even more intensified when combined with with piperine found in black pepper.

You can also prepare an equally effective remedy, by adding a teaspoon of turmeric and a teaspoon of honey to a glass of warm milk and drinking this mixture twice a day.

3) Massages

Massages, practiced with dexterity and especially by a specialist, can relax your muscles and relieve your sciatic pain. Essential oils can be used to do the massage, such as arnica oil, wintergreen oil combined with peppermint oil, which are found to be effective in fighting pain and inflammation naturally.

4) Physical exercises

Adequate physical exercises, particularly yoga, can be effective in relieving your sciatic pain. Be careful, however, not to do exercises that solicit your sciatic nerve. Take care of your posture and keep your back perfectly straight.

5) Valerian tea

Thanks to the valerian acids it contains, valerian has a real sedative action. It puts the central nervous system to sleep and acts as an excellent natural tranquilizer. Add a teaspoon of dried valerian root to a cup of hot water and drink this mixture as soon as the pain is felt.

6) The white willow

Excellent analgesic and powerful anti-inflammatory, white willow is said to be plant aspirin. Nevertheless, its contraindications are the same as those of the drug, even if its adverse effects seem minimal in comparison to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. So consult your doctor before using this type of product.

7) Fenugreek Seeds

Yes, the smell of fenugreek is very unpleasant, we grant you that. Nevertheless, this spice has inflammatory properties that are particularly effective in cases of gout, sciatica or osteoarthritis. Make a natural dressing by mixing fenugreek seeds with 250 milliliters of milk and boiling it. You will get a paste that you apply to the painful areas and leave on for a few hours.

8) Acupuncture

Used by the Chinese for centuries, acupuncture is certainly one of the most effective treatments for relieving sciatic pain. In fact, acupuncture consists of inserting small needles in specific places of the body, which makes it possible to provoke a reaction of the nervous system. Therefore, this response leads our brain to release natural painkillers, relax muscles and increase blood flow to the painful area.