Home Remedies for Tender, Sore, Painful Breasts

Fibrocystic breast disease which results in soreness and tenderness of the breast prior to menstrual cycles is one of the most common female disorders. Estimates suggest that approximately half the number of females below the age of 50 years suffer from this disorder. While this condition has not been linked with any form of underlying medical condition, simple dietary measures and home remedies can help in treating this condition. This condition may often manifest as a part of a more broader syndrome complex referred to as premenstural disorder syndrome.

Symptoms of Sore Breasts

Most females are affected by breast problems, especially during their reproductive age (i.e. between puberty and menopause).Tenderness of the breast, also referred to as cyclic breast disorder occurs on a monthly basis just prior to the menstrual periods.
During this phases, breasts often feel swollen, painful and heavy, especially around the areolar region. Some patients may complain of increased sensitivity to touch, espeically around the areolar region.


Causes of Breast Tenderness

Breast Tenderness is a
common complaint

Some of the common causes for breast tenderness prior to periods include,

• Pre Menstrual Syndrome or PMS is a syndrome complex which is characterized by a host of symptoms including abdominal pain, fatigue and breast pain about a week prior to menstrual periods. It is believed that the condition is caused due to retention of water in the breast tissue which tends to exert undue pressure resulting in tenderness and pain.
• Use of contraceptive pills to prevent pregnancy or use of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for the management of symptoms of menopause are also considered to be contributing factors
• Consumption of caffeinated beverages results in dilation of blood vessels in the breast tissue due to the compound methylxanthine. This distention often result is pain
• Use of NSAIDs, steroids and HRT drugs are also linked with development of breast tenderness
• Sclerosing adenosis is also a condition which is associated with breast tenderness

Some of the other lifestyle related causes linked with painful breasts include,

1. wearing a tight fitting bra
2. breast enhancement or augmentation surgery

If pain and tenderness of the breast is a constant and ongoing and not linked to menstural cycles, it is essential to get onselfs evaluated to rule out the possibility of cancer of the breast.

Home Remedies for Painful Breasts

Here are some simple home remedies and supplements which have been reported to improve breast soreness and alleviate the pain. While one can use the supplements in conjuction with other medicines, it is essential to ensure that these supplements/home remedies dont interfere with other treatments linked to premenstural syndrome disorder. These simple remedies comprise of natural herbs and dietary supplements,

Chaste Tree Extract is
very beneficial in Breast Pain
Treatment

• Chaste Tree Extract: Studies have shown that chaste tree extract helps in restoring the balance between estrogen and progesterone. Imbalance in estrogen and progesterone can result in fluid retention in the body which in turn results in breast tenderness. Chaste Tree extract can help alleviate pain.
• Vitamin E: Reports have suggested that consumption of 500 IU of Vitamin E supplements can help in sustained relief from breast soreness.  
• Essential fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are strong anti-inflammatory agents and help in reducing pain and tenderness in the breasts. Consumption of 1 gram of Evening primrose is recommended for the management of the condition. Alternatively flax seed oil is also considered to be a good source of EFAs.
• Magnesium supplements are also considered to be beneficial in the management of breast tenderness and soreness.
• Iodine: Studies have shown that lower levels of iodine can result in breast disorders. Consuming foods rich in iodine namely sea foods are considered beneficial. However, check for your thyroid condition before increasing the intake of iodine. However, it is essential to bear in mind that excessive iodine can be detrimental in the management of hyperthyroidism.
• Pyridoxine or Vitamin B6 helps the liver process excess of estrogen and hence is considered beneficial in management of cyclic breast disorder.

Natural Treatment and Diet for Sore Breasts

Here are some addition considerations for management of tenderness and soreness of the breasts,

• Wear a bra of the right size and ensure that it supports the breast tissue adequately



Caffeine consumption is
strongly linked with
Breast Problems

• Cold compression is considered to relive pain as it averts inflammatory response. Regular cold compression during acute pain is recommended
• Limit and preferably eliminate caffeine from your diet. Avoid cola drinks, chocolate and other over the counter medications.
• Limit the intake of processed foods and saturated fatty acids. Limit consumption of Trans Fats in your diet.

Visit your gynecologist on regular basis, especially if the pain is severe or if you observe discharge from the nipples. 

Home Remedies and Natural Treatment for Athralgia (Joint Pain)

Athralgia or joint pain is a condition that affects individuals above the age of 40 years. Arthritis including rheumatoid or osteoarthritis are the most common causes associated with pain in the hip and knee joints. With limited options for management of this condition available in contemparary medicine, there are several natural treatments and home remedies that are beneficial to deal with this condition. In most cases, the beneficial effect ranges from reduced pain to significant relief in stiffness and improved joint mobility. 

Joint pains commonly occur in people of 40 years and above. The commonest cause for joint pain is arthritis, either rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Pain is often accompanied by stiffness and reduced mobility. While the condition can affect any joint, it is more frequently observed in weight bearing joints namely knees, hips and ankles. Occassionally joint pain in the wrist and fingers may also be observed.

Joint Pain results in
Limited Mobility

Home Remedies for Reducing Joint Pain and Improving Mobility

Here are some simple home remedies that have been found beneficial in treating athraligia. These home remedies are usually effective, irrespective of the joint involved,

• Carrots: Carrots are loaded with Vitamin A, which is a powerful antioxidant and neutralizes the free radicals that are responsible for damage to the joint tissue. Experts recommend consumption of one carrot each day, to reduce the symptoms of athralgia. Other foods that supply this anti oxidant include mangoes, parsley, apricots, broccoli, spinach, sweet potatoes, peaches, etc

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Vinegar is another simple home remedy which is considered to be beneficial in sustained and immense pain relief for joint pains. Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a tablespoon of honey and consume at least once a day.
• Epsom Salts: Add about five spoons of Epsom salt to bath water and then soak the affected joints. Epsom salts contain magnesium, which has strong anti inflammatory action in the joints and helps reduce stiffness and pain.



Apple Cider Vinegar
is beneficial for
Joint Pains

• Olive Oil: Local application of olive oil is considered to reduce pain and discomfort associated with athralgia. Olive oil should be applied to the affected joints just prior to retiring to bed.
• Papaya Seed Extract: Boil the papaya seeds in a bowl of water and consume the decoction about once each day for a month. This will not only reduce the pain and stiffness but also helps in improving joint mobility.

Massage and Simple Streching Excercises help reduce Joint Pain

 

Regular simple stretching exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the affected joint and improve the mobility of the joint. Regular exercise also relieves the pain in the joint efficiently. Athraligia when associated with muscular fatigue can be effectively managed by massaging the affected joint with essential oil namely lavender, cardimon, etc. Note that the essential oil should be adequately diluted before being used.  

Effective Diet for Athralgia

Including the following diet in the food for about three months can yield beneficial results. This diet is beneficial in the management of chronic conditions like arthritis which is primarily responsible for joint pain and athralgia

•  Grapes: Grapes contain resveratrol, which is a natural anti inflammatory agent. Resveratrol helps reduce stiffness, swelling and inflammation of the joint and in turn helps improve the overall mobility of the joint. The anti inflammatory agent blocks the inflammatory pathways to bring about sustained relief



Vegetarian Diet is
good for Joint Problems

• Salads and Vegetarian Diet: It should be remembered that non vegetarian diet including chicken, eggs, dairy products and meat contain arachidonic acid which tends to get converted to leuckoterienes and prostaglandins, which exert an inflammatory action. Reducing animal sources of food and focusing on veggies can help in reducing chronic inflammation.
•  Flax seeds and Fish are loaded with essential fatty acids namely omega-3 fatty acids which has strong anti inflammatory effects. Increasing omega-3 in the diet is very important in management of joint pain and athralgia
• Soy: Soy is also packed with anti oxidants like phytoestrogens and isoflavones. Further soy is also a great source of plant protein which in turn in beneficial in preventing cartilage erosion.

Treating Joint Pain with Vitamins

Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin C and Vitamin B complex play a crucial role in the management of joint pain and athralgia naturally. Though calcium and magnesium are important for bone strengthen and mineralization, these vitamins play a crucial role in managing joint pain.

• Vitamin A contains antioxidants that help destroy the free radicals which result in degeneration of the joint tissue and prevent inflammatory response
• Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in the reconstruction of joint cartilage by preventing demineralization. its contribution in joint care and checking bone pain is vital.
• Vitamin C is an integral component of ligaments, cartilage, bones and tendons along with other types of connective tissue. Vitamin C plays an important role in synthesis of collagen which makes it’s supplementation critical in the management of athralgia
• Vitamin B complexes are essential to maintain healthy joints and bones. 

Treating Cracked and Dry Lips with Home Remedies

Chapped and Cracked Lips can be a cause of concern especially since it is responsible for unsightly appearance of the lips and is often associated with pain. Unlike contemporary belief, chapping of lips is not only limited to winters, but is observed in association of a host of other environmental, dietary and medical conditions. Though using lip balm or moisturizers is often recommended, there are a host of simple home remedies that can be beneficial in the management of dry lips naturally. In addition there is several simple home care tips, that can help reduce the frequency of chapping of the lips.

Dry and Cracked Lips
can be painful and tender

What causes Cracked Lips? Chapped Lips Causes

Chapping of Lips can often result in dryness and flaking of the lips which is associated with symptoms like soreness, burning, pain and tenderness. Though lip balms or moisturizers can help in reducing severity the symptoms of dry lips, home remedies and natural treatment options can provide long term and sustained relief.

Some of the causes for cracked lips include,

• Dry and cold weather is considered to be primarily responsible for drying and cracking of lips
• Dehydration or exposure to severe hot temperatures can also contribute to dryness of the lips and result in chapping
• Certain deficiencies, including vitamin deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia can also lead to dry and cracked lips
• Ill fitting dentures is another cause for constant irritation of the lips which in turn can lead to chapping of the lips
• Allergy to toothpaste, teeth whitening agents, etc can result in chapping and drying of lips
• Certain medications used for the treatment of chronic hypertension can also lead to lip chapping
• Flu or common cold infections can also lead to drying of the lips, and are often associated with bleeding and pain

Home Remedies for Dry Lips

Though several individuals prefer to use chap sticks or lip balm for the management of dry and cracked lips, it should be remembered, that these are temporary solutions. Further, these cosmetic products are loaded with chemicals and preservatives, which not only increase the risk of allergic reactions but also increase the risk of secondary infections. Using home remedies is always more beneficial in management of simple and non life threatening condition like dried lips.

• Honey is considered to be beneficial in management of dry and cracked lips. It hastens healing process and further prevents infection and bleeding. Honey also moisturizes the lips by filling the fissures and warding off dryness. Adding a pinch of turmeric to honey, before applying on the lips. Turmeric is a strong and natural antibacterial and prevents infections. 
• Local application of a mixture of equal parts of coconut oil, olive oil and Aloe Vera is also considered to be very beneficial. Aloe Vera helps soothes the lips by filling up the fissures and cracks in the lips, while Coconut oil acts as a healthy lubricant, which prevents subsequent drying of the lips. Olive oil supplies Vitamin E to the lips which make them look more healthy and glossy.



Cucumber can help manage
Chapped and Dry Lips

• Rubbing a slice of cucumber has swift and strong healing effect for the management of cracked lips. This helps in reducing inflammation, soothes the burning pain and also prevents subsequent bleeding.
• Ensure a healthy diet, especially during winters. Include green leafy vegetables like spinach and parsley in the diet. Include fresh fruits like apples, oranges, prunes, etc which are loaded with dietary fiber and improve digestive abilities and supply essential nutrients.

Home Care Tips for Chapped Lips

Simple home remedies mentioned above can be highly beneficial in management of cracked and dried lips. However there are certain additional does and don’ts in management of chapped lips,

• Avoid licking the lips. Saliva tends to evaporate more quickly which in turn leaves the lips drier than before. Instead apply coconut oil or Aloe Vera gel on the lips.
• Ensure that you remain well hydrated. Drinking at least three liters of water is a must, especially during winters.
• Preferably breathe through the nose. This correct breathing technique prevents the lips from drying out.
• Avoid the use of creams, allergens or fragrances which are known to cause skin irritation.
• Very high doses of Vitamin A can also lead to chapping of the lips. In most cases, chemotherapy drugs can lead to lip chapping. These cases can only be managed by a healthy and nutritive diet. 

Home Remedies for Piles: Treat Hemorrhoid Risks Naturally

Piles or hemorrhoids are not a very serious condition which can be treated promptly with home remedies and natural treatments. Though the prevelence of bleeding piles is lower, they are often a cause of concern and can result in serious health implications. Here are some simple home remedies and natural treatments to manage hemorrhoids and piles.

What are Piles? Prevelence of Hemorrhoids

Piles or Hemorrhoids is a condition which is characterized by swelling of the veins around the anus and the rectum. It is estimated that the prevalence of symptomic hemorrhoids is about 4.4% with approximately 10 million people in the United States suffering from the disorder.
In general, prevalence of hemorrhoids increases with increasing age. However, only about one third of this population seeks medical advice. While in most cases piles or hemorrhoids are asymptomatic, occassionally piles may bleed and very rarely may require a surgical intervention. Recent reports from the United States suggest that a steady decline is observed in surgical procedures performed to treat hemorrhoids (i.e. hemorrhoidectomy).

Piles or Hemorrhoids can
be very distressing

Hemorrhoids Causes: How do you get Piles?

Piles or Hemorrhoids can be largely classified in bleeding and non bleeding ( or blind piles). Blind or non bleeding piles are rarely noticed, due to absence of symptoms like bleeding per rectum. Bleeding hemorrhoids on the other hand are relatively more serious conditions, since; they increase the risk of blood loss and are responsible for anemia and other complications.

 There are a host of factors that are responsible for bleeding piles. Some of the common causes include, 

• Continuous irritation or thrombosis is considered to be a primarily factor for bleeding piles. Internal piles (i.e. located in the rectum) are at a higher risk of bleeding compared to external piles (i.e. located on the skin).
• Irritation may be caused due to constipation, which in turn can be attributed to higher intake of processed foods and lack of dietary fiber in the diet.
• Sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time can also lead to venous congestion which in turn can lead to bleeding piles. Straining during stools can also contribute to venous congestion and piles.
• Obesity and pregnancy are two conditions that are linked with constipation and increased abdominal pressure, which in turn can lead to piles

Hemorrhoids Home Remedies: Natural Treatment for Piles

There are host of simple home remedies that can be beneficial in the management and treatment of bleeding piles,

• Local application of apple cider vinegar is considered to be beneficial in checking bleeding associated with internal piles. Vinegar acts as a astringent and prevents bleeding
• Neem oil application around the affected area can be highly beneficial. Neem oil has anti microbial properties which prevents secondary infections and also helps reduce the itching caused due to the irritation



Witch Hazel Extract is
beneficial for management
of Bleeding Piles

• Consuming Witch Hazel extract is also considered beneficial. The extract helps reduce venous congestion and also reduces inflammation at the site. It acts as a natural astringent
• Consuming prunes daily is also highly beneficial. Prunes are loaded with dietary fiber and help fight constipation. This in turn reduces the risk of straining at stools and prevents formation of piles. Other foods that can be beneficial in treating constipation include raisins, fresh fruits, cereals, green leafy vegetables, etc. Consuming at least three liters of water each day is essential to manage bleeding hemorrhoids

Home based Treatment for Piles: Treating Hemorrhoids Naturally

Here are some simple tips that can help in management of bleeding hemorrhoids naturally,

• Ensure that the anal area is kept clean and dry. Use mild baby soap to clean the anus after passing stools. Local application of Aloe Vera Gel is also considered beneficial
• Sit in a hot tub at least once a day. The hot water helps improve blood circulation and can help fight venous congestion. Further adding a few spoons of Epsom salt can also be beneficial as it prevents secondary infections
• Ensure that the undergarments that you wear are cotton made. This helps reduce irritation of the hemorrhoids
• Avoid lifting heavy weights or straining at stools

Are Bleeding Hemorrhoids Serious?: Bleeding Piles Risks

Bleeding piles are often noticed when an individual notices blood in stools. Though in general the condition is not very serious, but it can result in further complications. Anemia due to excessive blood loss may result in generalized weakness, fatigue, lack of concentration, etc.

It is important to get yourself thoroughly evaluated by a physician. Bleeding during stools can also be associated with other gastrointestinal disorders like Cohn’s disease, Ulcerative Colitis and rectal cancer. 

About Premature Ejaculation: Natural Early Ejaculation Treatment

Premature ejaculation is a subjective condition,and one of the most common sexual dysfunction. Early Ejaculation is often associated with several causes like anxiety and depression and can further result an aggravation of these conditions. This article is meant to provide information about premature ejaculation, its causes and various home remedies and natural treatments for the management of the condition.

Premature ejaculation
can lead to depression

What is Premature Ejaculation?: About Early Ejaculation

Experts define Premature Ejaculation as a condition which is associated with ejaculation prior to the wish of both the sexual partners. This simple definition however doesn’t specify the duration of sexual intercourse and the time taken to reach the climax, which can vary across individuals considerably. It should be remembered that a occasional episode of premature ejaculation doesn’t require treatment. Only cases, where consistent pattern is observed in over 50% of sexual relations among a couple, require treatment.

The National Health Survey Report, have been indicative that early ejaculation is one of the most common sexual dysfunction affecting American males. The condition affects approximately 30% of the adult population, though estimates suggest that it may range from 30-70% in prevalence. The condition affects males below the age of forty years. Fortunately there are several home remedies and behavior modification strategies that can be used to prevent premature ejaculation in men.

What to do about Early Ejaculation? : What causes Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation can often vary depending on subjective orientation and differing viewpoints. Some females often take several minutes before reaching their climax which may be rather a condition of delayed orgasm in females rather than premature ejaculation in males.
A detailed assessment may be required prior to undergoing for treatment for premature ejaculation. .
Some of the common causes associated with premature ejaculations include,

1. Stress, anxiety and apprehension can lead to premature ejaculation. Excessive masturbation can also increase the risk of premature ejaculation. Further, weakness of the muscles of the penis can also lead to premature ejaculation
2. Depression can also lead to premature ejaculation
3. Failure or expected failure can also result in premature ejaculation. It is a vicious cycle. Premature ejaculation can further lead to depression among young men, which in turn may further aggravate the condition.
4. Diabetes along with other chronic conditions like elevated levels of blood cholestrol can also result in early ejaculation.
5. Early ejaculation is common with increasing age.
6. Premature ejaculation is common in drug addicts, alcoholics and smokers.

Stop Premature Ejaculation Naturally : Natural Early Ejaculation Treatment

Prior to taking trying out any medical treatment or natural home remedies, there are certain strategies that can be adopted to prevent premature ejaculation. These simple strategies need to be performed during the process of sexual intercourse and hence, a common consensus with the sexual partner is very important.

• Firstly, depending condition, take a break during the middle of the sexual intercourse activity and squeeze the tip of the penis with your thumb and index finger. Hold the pressure for a few seconds and then release. Wait for a few seconds before resuming intercourse. This strategy can help delay the ejaculation and also helps train the body.
• Some studies have shown that males can control their orgasm by lying on their back, while the sexual partner is positioned on the top. This strategy helps reduce the sensitivity of the penis and also prevents early ejaculation. However, the effectiveness of this strategy often differs in different individuals
• Other studies have shown that subsequent orgasms tend to last longer compared to the first orgasm, especially among men. Hence it is suggested that the male partner should masturbate a couple of hours prior to the sexual intercourse. The first orgasm tends to dispel built up excitement and thereby helps the subsequent orgasm to last longer. However this strategy can’t be used by couples who are trying to conceive, since subsequent ejaculations tend to have a lower sperm count and reduce the possibility of conception.

It should always be remembered that excessive anxiety and elevated levels of stress are important contributing factors towards development of premature ejaculation. Yoga coupled with meditation can help manage stress levels and treat premature ejaculation naturally.

Home Remedies for Premature Ejaculation Treatment : Early Ejaculation Cures

There are certain home remedies that have been beneficial in delaying the climax and helping in curing premature ejaculation in males,

• Ginseng is considered to be one of the most beneficial herb, which can help in preventing premature ejaculation in males



Winter Cherry or
Ashwagandha for 
 Early Ejaculation

• Saffron is another herb which is considered to be an aphrodisiac and also helps in improving libido. It is recommended to add a few strings to saffron to a glass of warm cow’s milk along with cardamom and ginger. As per traditional practice, warm milk with saffron is consumed in some regions of South East Asia on the first night of a couples honeymoon after marriage.
• Honey is also considered to have strong aphrodisiac properties and can be used for the management of early ejacualation.
• Green Onion seeds are considered to be very effective in curing premature ejaculation. Consume the seeds prior to a meal along with a glass of water
• Winter cherry or Ashwagandha, also referred to as the Indian Ginseng is also considered beneficial in the management of premature ejaculation. Consuming a mixture of the herb along with a glass of warm cow's milk is considered beneficial

It is always vital to check if there is any other problem which might be contributing to premature ejaculation. Prostate problems can result in premature ejaculation and often massaging the prostate with caster oil is considered to have useful results. 

Home Remedies for Oral Thrush in Babies: How to get rid of Oral Thrush Naturally

Estimates from the United States suggest that approximately 37% of all newborn babies develop oral thrush during the first few months of their life. Though the condition is often self limiting and closely linked with poor nourishment, thrush is often associated with an underlying possibility of immunodeficiency and hence is often a cause of concern. 

Oral Thrush is common
in infants and babies

Symptoms of Thrush in Babies: Side Effects of Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is the most common yeast infection caused due to a fungi ‘candida albicans’. This condition frequently affects babies below the age of two years, but is usually self limiting and settles within a couple of weeks. Weak immune system or secondary infection during normal delivery is some of the common causes. The symptoms associated with oral thrush in babies include,

• White patches in the infants mouth which may be located on the palate, cheeks or gums
• These patches can’t be removed or rubbed off easily. Attempting to rub these patches may often result in inflammation at the site which may eventually bleed
• The baby refuses to breastfeed or may be unable to suck on the mothers nipples.
• Excessive crying, irritability and restlessness may also be observed in the babies.

Though oral thrush is self limiting condition, it can spread along the gastro-intestinal system of the baby which may affect the health and nutritional status of the infant. The organs most frequently affected by candida infection include the lungs, liver and the Gastro intestinal system . Oral thrush in adults is often considered to be a sign of immunodeficiency caused due to serious condition like HIV or cancer.

 Home Remedies for Thrush in Babies; Treating Oral Thrush in Infants

There are a host of food prescriptions along with natural remedies that have been known to have a beneficial in the management of oral thrush,

• Yogurt: Yogurt supplies healthy bacteria to the body, which can capable of fighting yeast infection. Allowing the baby to consume some bit of yogurt or applying yogurt locally at the site of the infection can be highly beneficial. Ensure that local application is wiped within about an hour.



Grapefruit Extract is
beneficial in treating
Oral Thrush

• Baking Soda: This is another natural treatment for oral thrush. Add one teaspoon of the baking soda into a glass of water and mix it well. Using cotton swab, apply the solution on the affected site. Apply the solution after each feed.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Vinegar has strong anti bacterial and antifungal properties. Local application of diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar is considered to be beneficial in the management of oral thrush.
• Grapefruit Seed Extract: This fruit extract has strong antifungal properties which is considered beneficial in treating oral thrush in babies. Grapefruit extract mixed with honey can also be beneficial in management of oral thrush
• Garlic: Garlic oil has potent antiseptic properties and can manage some stubborn forms of oral thrush quickly.

How to Get Rid Of Thrush in Babies; Important Tips for Oral Thrush Treatment  

Here are some essential tips that are beneficial in the management of oral thrush naturally,  \

• Maintaining utmost oral hygiene in infants and babies is very crucial. Keep the mouth clean and wash it frequently with plain water. Using a cotton swab, clean the tongue and the oral cavity of the infant regularly, at least twice a day.
• While weaning the child, stay away from sugary foods or packed baby foods that contain refined sugar. Fungus tends to strive on sugar
• Ensure that the baby’s bottle, pacifier, comforters, etc are cleaned and washed. These precautionary measures help prevent the spread of the infection and also hasten recovery.
• Administration of steroids can result in drop in immunity in the child. Avoid administration of steroids, especially up to the age of nine months. 

Treating Sciatica Naturally: Home Remedies & Foods for Lower Back Pain

Estimates suggest that one in every hundred people suffer from lower back pain due to sciatica. The prevalence of back pain due to sciatica increases with age, with 50% of all cases of back pain above the age of 60 years being attributed to sciatica. Sciatica is a nerve-related condition that causes excruciating pain and discomfort, due to the impingement of the sciatic nerve.



Causes of Sciatica: Sciatica Symptoms
The most common etiological factor for the occurrence of sciatica is pressure from a herniated disc. Another important cause is the Piriformis Syndrome. The piriformis muscle puts pressure on to the sciatic nerve when it gets imbalanced, thereby, making the pelvic bones displaced, and compressing the sciatic nerve. Spinal canal stenosis causes inflammation because of continuous pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Common clinical features of sciatica include: lower back pain that radiates down to the posterior aspect of the thighs and calves, sometimes causing pain in the ankles and toes as well. Tingling numbness is an associated feature. Dietary prescriptions and exercises can help alleviate the pain and discomfort and also ward off aggravations.

Home Remedies for Sciatica: Lower Back Pain Remedies

Foods have immense healing and curative powers. Research says, certain specific food prescriptions are known to manage the pain and ‘pins and needles’ sensation associated with sciatica and treat sciatica successfully. Make sure you incorporate these foods in to your daily diet.

Radish is beneficial
for treatment of sciatica

• Garlic: Garlic is a potent inflammation fighter. It can assuage pain, boost blood circulation, and also provide the body with energy and vigor. Have two flakes of raw garlic everyday.
• Horse radish: Is a very effective home remedy for the successful treatment of sciatica. Crush fresh horse radish to make a poultice; apply this to the painful areas, and leave on for half an hour. This stimulates the sciatica nerve and will proffer relief from the pain.
• Essential oils: aroma oils such as: Clove Oil, Cardamom Oil and Ginger Oil are decidedly beneficial in the treatment of sciatica. These oils help lessen the pain appreciably and decrease the discomfort and distress associated with the condition. Blend these oils with a carrier oil, such as, coconut oil or sesame seed oil and massage the lower back and the back of the legs daily.

Diet for Sciatica: Lower Back Pain Diet

Here are some diet prescriptions for managing Lower back pain due to sciatica,

• You must ensure that the protein consumption is good. Also, ensure that you have soy in some form everyday. Excellent sources of proteins are: meat, eggs, chicken, legumes and milk.
• Vitamin B rich foods: supplementing your diet with vitamin B is very essential; vitamin B is crucial for optimal nerve health. Excellent sources of the vitamin are: whole grains, nuts, spinach, peas, meat, beef, pinto beans, bananas, soy, and legumes. Make sure that you get a generous dose of these foods on a daily basis. Doctors also recommend starting a vitamin B complex supplement daily. Vitamin B complex helps manage tingling numbness and pain effectively.



Virbhadrasana is effective
in Sciatica managment

• Carrot ought to be a part of your everyday diet. Have one glass of carrot juice everyday. Carrot supplies the body with most of the essential vitamins and minerals that keep the nerves functioning normally.

Exercises and Stretches For Sciatica: Exercise for Lower Back Pain  

All health care professionals stress on the need for exercising and physiotherapy. Exercises stretch the muscles, ligaments and tendons and reinforce them; they ease pain and stiffness and thus improve the range of motion, and consequently enhance the quality of life. Sustained practice is very vital for quick relief of pain.

Certain yoga exercises like Virbhadrasana and Gaumukhasana are considered beneficial for lower back pain management.