Effective Home Remedies for Neuropathy Pain in Hands, Legs and Feet

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to issues with human nerves, primarily peripheral nerves, distinct from the central nervous system. It encompasses various nerve types—motor, sensory, and autonomic—and can be classified into three types based on the number and distribution of affected nerves: mononeuropathy, mononeuritis multiplex, or polyneuropathy. The peripheral nervous system connects the spinal cord and brain to the body, affecting areas like arms, legs, and internal organs. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when these nerves are damaged, causing malfunction and discomfort, often resulting in pain signals even without an injury due to various factors like systemic illness, genetic disorders, or infections.

What Are The Symptoms Of Neuropathy?

Neuropathy symptoms can vary based on which nerves are affected, but common signs include:

A sensation of wearing a tight sock or glove
Tingling in the feet or hands
Stabbing or sharp pains
Weakness in the hands, arms, and legs
Shocking or buzzing sensations
Frequent dropping of items
Sexual dysfunction, especially in men
Excessive sweating
Diarrhea and digestive issues

These symptoms may point to other conditions, so discussing them with your doctor is essential.

What Are Causes Of Neuropathy?

Approximately 30% of neuropathy cases are idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. Neuropathy isn’t a single disease but rather nerve damage caused by various conditions, including:

Diabetes: The most common cause of chronic peripheral neuropathy, where high blood sugar can damage nerves.
Vitamin Deficiencies: Folate and B12 deficiencies can lead to nerve damage.
Toxin Exposure: Solvents and insecticides may harm peripheral nerves.
Medications: Drugs like chemotherapy agents and some HIV treatments can cause nerve damage.
Cancers: Conditions like multiple myeloma and lymphoma may lead to peripheral neuropathy.
Chronic Kidney Disease: Abnormal kidney function can disrupt chemical balance, resulting in nerve damage.
Alcohol Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause nerve harm.
Injuries: Pressure from tight casts or broken bones can affect nerves.
Infections: Diseases such as HIV, shingles, and Lyme disease can lead to neuropathy.
Autoimmune Disorders: Diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can attack nerves.

What Are the Risk Factors Of Neuropathy?

Neuropathy risk factors include:

Alcohol abuse
Uncontrolled diabetes
Vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B vitamins)
Infections (e.g., shingles, Lyme disease)
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
Liver, kidney, or thyroid disorders
Toxin exposure
Repetitive motions from certain jobs
Family history of neuropathy

Here are effective home remedies for neuropathy in the hands and legs to help reduce nerve pain, improve circulation, and support nerve health:

A. Natural Remedies For Neuropathy Pain In Hands, Legs & Feet

1. Moist warm compress

A moist, warm compress, like a clean washcloth or kitchen towel, uses damp heat. This heat goes deeper into the tissues than dry heat at the same temperature. While it can be a bit messy, it provides the benefits of deeper heat penetration and hydration to the affected area.

A moist compress is especially good for relieving muscle soreness and is easy to make at home.

Soak a clean cotton towel in hot water and wring out the excess. Place it over the aching muscle and remove it once it cools. Repeat as needed for relief.

2. Warm water and Epsom salt

Epsom salt is a water-soluble compound known as a “salt” because of its chemical structure. It mainly contains magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen.

There are no studies to confirm how Epsom salt helps with pain management, but many people use it for pain relief based on personal experience.

Mix one tablespoon of Epsom salt in 2 cups of hot water until dissolved. Soak a flannel cloth in the solution, wring it out, and apply it to the painful area. Leave it on for 15–20 minutes, then repeat as needed for relief.

Be careful when using hot therapy to avoid burns and skin damage. Follow these precautions:

3. Warm bath

A warm bath can soothe neuropathy symptoms by increasing blood circulation and reducing numbness. Research suggests that warm saltwater baths may be especially beneficial. However, avoid making the water too hot if you have reduced sensitivity due to peripheral neuropathy.

4. Soaking Foot In Warm Water

Neuropathic pain in the feet can be alleviated through foot soaking, which relaxes muscles, promotes circulation, and aids in treatment. Soaking your feet in hot water and herbs helps relieve discomfort after a long day.

Soaking feet in hot water and herbs can help relieve neuropathic pain by relaxing muscles, improving blood circulation, and promoting overall well-being. This method also supports detoxification and enhances oxygen supply to the brain. When combined with acupuncture, it yields even better results.

Ingredients:

Fresh ginger

Tablespoon salt

A handful of leaves

Instructions:

1. Wash and pound the ginger and leaves.

2. Mix with one teaspoon of warm water and salt.

3. Soak your feet in the mixture while massaging to enhance effectiveness.

4. Continue soaking until the water cools; then rinse with lukewarm water.

5. Repeat regularly for best results.

5. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Turmeric is a spice with a compound called curcumin, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve pain. You can use turmeric by mixing one teaspoon with warm milk or by taking curcumin supplements at a dose of 500 mg each day. Some studies suggest that turmeric may help with neuropathic pain, but research in this area is still limited.

6. Ginger Tea

Ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory herb that improves circulation and reduces inflammation. It contains high potassium levels and has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Studies show that up to 75% of arthritis patients and 100% with muscular pain experience reduced swelling when using dry ginger (500mg–1000mg) over several months. Fresh ginger (5 grams) or dried ginger (1 gram) can significantly alleviate pain and morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis patients, making it an effective home remedy for neuropathy.

To use:

Method 1: Ginger Tea

Mix 2-3 slices of fresh ginger, 1 tsp of ginger powder, 1 tsp of honey, and 1 tbsp of lemon juice in a glass of hot water. Stir well, let it cool, and drink 2–3 times daily on an empty stomach.

Chew a piece of fresh or dry ginger until it releases juice, then spit it out. Repeat several times daily, incorporate ginger slices into your meals, or swallow ginger juice.

7. Capsaicin Cream

Capsaicin cream, derived from chili peppers, effectively reduces nerve pain signals. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it particularly useful for alleviating diabetes-related pain. For optimal results, it is recommended to apply a small amount of the cream to the affected areas two to three times daily. Users may experience a warming sensation upon application, enhancing relief from discomfort.

8. Hot Pepper

Rich in capsaicin, hot peppers offer analgesic and irritant properties that may help alleviate neuropathy symptoms. Used in traditional and folk medicine, they relieve muscle pain, sinus congestion, and headaches. Additionally, hot peppers contain antioxidants like vitamins A and C. Capsaicin is especially effective for chronic pain, such as peripheral neuropathy.

Cautions: Avoid contact with wounds, cuts, eyes, and mucous membranes. Allergic reactions may occur in those sensitive to mugwort, fennel, celery, birch pollen, or anise.

B. Dietary Adjustments for Neuropathy Pain In Hands, Legs & Feet

1. Essential Vitamins for Alleviating Nerve Pain

Peripheral neuropathy can often be attributed to deficiencies in specific vitamins. However, supplementation with these essential vitamins has demonstrated the potential to alleviate neuropathic pain and prevent further nerve damage.

The following vitamins are particularly noteworthy:

Vitamin B Complex: Vitamin B deficiency is recognized as a contributing factor to peripheral neuropathy. Specifically, Vitamin B12 deficiency may harm the nerve’s protective sheath, while Vitamin B6 deficiency can negatively impact nerve health. Therefore, Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 supplementation may significantly relieve neuropathic pain.

Sources: Whole grains, eggs, leafy greens, lean meats, fortified cereals

See More: B Vitamins and Nerve Health: Why You Need Them

Vitamin E: As a potent antioxidant, Vitamin E-rich foods can alleviate symptoms associated with neuropathic pain. This is primarily due to Vitamin E’s ability to reduce inflammation related to nerve pain.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC): Research suggests that acetyl-L-carnitine may effectively address chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Derived from fish oil, Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fats with significant anti-inflammatory properties that may assist in alleviating neuropathic pain and its associated symptoms.

Sources: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds.

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): This compound possesses antioxidant characteristics that may reduce pain sensation in neuropathy.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a potent immunomodulator that may help lower inflammation and promote neuronal regeneration, positioning it as a valuable component in managing pain associated with neuropathy.

Peripheral neuropathy is often linked to not getting enough of certain vitamins. Taking these vitamins can help relieve nerve pain and prevent further nerve damage.

2. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Alpha-lipoic acid is a strong antioxidant. It helps improve nerve function and protects cells by fighting harmful free radicals. The body makes this essential fatty acid, mainly in organs like the kidneys, liver, and heart. Its main job is to turn glucose into energy, which cells need to function. The antioxidant qualities of alpha-lipoic acid are essential for overall health because they reduce oxidative stress.

Alpha-lipoic acid is found in foods like spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, peas, rice bran, and potatoes. It is also sold as a dietary supplement, usually recommended at a dose of 300 to 600 milligrams per day.

3. Stay Hydrated

Water, including the nervous system, is essential for the human body to work well. Dehydration can make neuropathy symptoms worse, making it harder to manage this condition. Drinking enough water may help keep the nerves healthy and reduce the severity of neuropathy symptoms.

Dehydration can also increase nerve sensitivity. Therefore, it is recommended that you drink 8 to 10 glasses of water each day.

C. Lifestyle Changes

1. Regular Exercise

Boosts circulation, reduces nerve pain, and enhances overall health.

Regular exercise improves muscle strength, may decrease neuropathic pain, and helps control blood glucose levels. Exercises should include aerobics, flexibility, strength, and balance. Consult a healthcare provider for a suitable exercise program.

Staying active can lower blood sugar, reduce nerve damage, and increase blood flow, all of which help alleviate discomfort and pain.

Recommended Activities: Walking, swimming, gentle yoga, or tai chi for 30 minutes daily

2. Foot and Hand Massages

Massage can stimulate nerves and improve blood flow, making it a helpful at-home treatment for neuropathy. It may alleviate low-back pain, enhance flexibility, and reduce anxiety and migraines. To maximize benefits, use coconut or olive oil with a few drops of essential oils like lavender.

However, consult a doctor before starting massage therapy and choose a qualified massage therapist, as excessive pressure can lead to soreness. Avoid massage in areas with blood clots, open wounds, fractures, skin infections, or weakened bones. Pregnant women should also seek medical advice before massage.

3. Proper Foot Care

Taking care of your feet is essential, especially for those with nerve pain or diabetes. It helps prevent infection and complications.

Check your feet for calluses, wounds, or infections, as neuropathy may inhibit sensation.

Keep feet clean, dry, and moisturized. Wear neuropathy socks, which provide seamless, moisture-wicking, and nonbinding support to alleviate pain.

If you notice any issues, seek medical care promptly.

4. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol

Both smoking and drinking alcohol can worsen nerve damage and neuropathy by reducing blood flow to extremities and causing nutrient deficiencies. Smoking narrows blood vessels, limiting oxygenated blood and increasing numbness and pain. Quitting smoking can significantly improve these symptoms, serving as motivation for positive lifestyle changes.

5. Manage Stress

Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves that transmit information to the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Various factors, such as viruses, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases, can cause it. Stress and anxiety significantly worsen symptoms for all sufferers, making stress management crucial.

To alleviate stress, practice deep breathing: inhale for 5 seconds, hold for 2 seconds, and exhale for 7 seconds. Additionally, distract your mind from focusing too much on your body to help movements feel more natural. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and practicing healing prayer are also effective stress relievers. Acupuncture can further assist with stress and pain related to neuropathy.

6. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Practice good sleep hygiene to help manage nerve pain. This involves preparing your body for restful sleep by avoiding caffeine, turning off screens, and dimming lights before bed. These steps allow your body to heal from daily stresses.

D. Mind-Body Techniques

1. Deep Breathing & Meditation

Deep breathing and meditation reduce stress that can trigger nerve pain flare-ups.

Meditation can benefit those with neuropathy by lowering stress and pain intensity. While not physical treatments, mindfulness and meditation are practical tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression linked to chronic pain. They promote relaxation and the release of endorphins.

Practice mindful breathing for 10 minutes daily.

Simple mindfulness exercise:

1. Find a quiet spot and close your eyes.

2. Focus on your body from toes to head.

3. Acknowledge any pain and return focus to your breath.

4. Practice for at least 10 minutes daily.

2. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including neuropathic pain. This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific body points to stimulate the nervous system and release pain-altering chemicals. It aims to rebalance the body’s energy (qi) and may help reduce neuropathy-related pain, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness fully. For the best results, seek a certified acupuncturist experienced in treating neuropathy.

3. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is one of the popular home remedies for neuropathy pain or diabetic nerve pain. In chiropractic care, different techniques such as pressure, palpation, exercise programs, massage, and lifestyle counseling are used to relieve inflammation, swelling, and pain. Chiropractic care also helps relax your body. It is recommended to choose a reputed and qualified chiropractic center if you want to use this treatment as one of the home remedies for neuropathy pain.

E. Healthy Diet for Neuropathy Pain In Hands, Legs & Feet

1. Have A Healthy Diet Plan

The diet you follow significantly impacts your blood glucose levels, which is essential for managing neuropathy pain. Here are some tips for a healthier diet:

Choose unprocessed, whole foods.
Limit refined carbs, sugary drinks, and added sugars.
Opt for water or herbal tea instead of soda and sweetened beverages.
Focus on healthy fats and lean proteins instead of refined carbs.
Limit packaged foods and check labels for added sugars.
Manage weight by cooking at home and using healthy cooking methods like steaming, baking, and roasting.

Incorporate high-fiber, nutrient-dense foods such as:

Various vegetables and whole fruits are good for antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
Wild-caught fish for omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower triglycerides.
Healthy fats from coconut, nuts, olive, avocado, and seeds.
Lean protein options.
Use no-calorie sweeteners instead of table sugar.

2. Broccoli

Broccoli is a rich vitamin C vegetable with antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene. Cauliflower is also high in vitamin C, which supports immune function and aids in neuropathic pain healing. Its anti-aging properties help slow down the aging process. To maximize its benefits, eat cauliflower before main meals; wash and boil it with some salt. Pairing cauliflower with meat and eggs enhances iron absorption, making it beneficial to consume these together 2-3 times per week for optimal results.

3. Soy Bean

High levels of vitamin E in soybean oil act as effective antioxidants, protecting the skin from free radicals. It helps reduce acne scars, provides sun protection, and stimulates new skin cell regeneration. Additionally, vitamin E boosts the immune system, combating free radicals that can lead to cancer, premature aging, and cognitive dysfunction. Soy is rich in vitamin B6, alleviating neuropathy pain and increasing serotonin production, enhancing mood. Soybean oil also contains vitamin K, another antioxidant that protects nerve cells and may help prevent Alzheimer’s. Including soy products in daily meals can be beneficial for your health.

4. Mushroom

Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins like riboflavin, vitamin B9, thiamin, and niacin, which boost the immune system, support brain function, and promote overall health. They also contain rare micro-minerals such as selenium, potassium, and copper, which benefit beauty and disease prevention. High in choline, mushrooms support the nervous system, improve mood, and enhance memory. Additionally, they help regulate fat absorption and reduce chronic inflammation. Adding mushrooms to your daily meals can be beneficial for your health.

5. Eat More Nuts

Nuts, particularly pecans, walnuts, and almonds, are rich in nutrients like biotin (vitamin H), which may help alleviate neuropathy pain in diabetics. Eating 4 to 5 nuts daily can provide essential nutrition and fiber, helping control blood glucose levels and protect nerve health.

6. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is an effective home remedy for neuropathy pain in the hands and legs due to its glycemic content, which helps control blood sugar levels. It’s an excellent food choice for those with diabetes and can alleviate neuropathy symptoms. Enjoy oatmeal as a healthy breakfast, cooked with broth, milk, or egg for added flavor.

7. Banana

Bananas are great for neuropathy pain due to their high vitamin B6 content, which supports nerve function. They offer various health benefits and can help relieve annoying symptoms.

7. Tomato

Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins B9, B6, and C, making them an effective home remedy for neuropathy pain in the hands and legs. One small tomato provides essential nutrients and various health benefits, so consider adding them to your daily cooking.

8. Fish

Fish is an excellent source of vitamin B, which helps treat neuropathy. Thus, it is not unexpected that fish serves as one of the remarkable home remedies for neuropathic pain. The vitamin B12 found in fish plays a significant role in enhancing nerve function and encouraging the production of red blood cells. Additionally, fish is a wholesome food choice for brain health. Children who frequently consume fish may become more intelligent.

F. Essential Oils for Neuropathy Pain In Hands, Legs & Feet

For thousands of years, essential oils have been valued for their healing properties, soothing the body and mind while treating various conditions. They are considered natural alternatives to medication and effective home remedies for neuropathy, which causes pain and numbness due to nerve damage. Some of the best essential oils for neuropathy include:

1. Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil, a wildflower found throughout the US, is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), omega-6s, and omega-3s, which are essential for bodily health. When taken internally, it may help treat neuropathy, with a recommended daily dosage of 360 mg to alleviate numbness, burning, and tingling.

While generally safe in recommended amounts, side effects like mild stomach pain, nausea, and headaches can occur. Avoid evening primrose oil if you have epilepsy, bleeding disorders, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.

2. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

This oil’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory characteristics make it beneficial for managing neuropathy. It can effectively alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and lessen inflammation.

3. Brahmi Oil

Brahmi oil, an infusion of the brahmi herb in a base oil, has been used since ancient times to promote hair growth and serve as a nerve tonic for the brain and nervous system when massaged onto the scalp. It possesses therapeutic, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties, making it effective for various issues like pain relief and skin tightening. For best results, massage the affected area twice daily.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint is an excellent home remedy for neuropathy pain in the hands and legs. It boosts blood circulation and helps relieve pain and muscle spasms. Add peppermint leaves to boiling water, steep for a few minutes, strain, and drink. It’s recommended to have 2–3 cups daily. Alternatively, you can rub the leaves directly on the affected area for relief.

5. Rosemary

Rosemary essential oil is a great home remedy for neuropathy pain in the hands and legs due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and anti-microbial properties. It helps relieve pain, reduce muscle spasms, and strengthen the respiratory system.

To use it, apply a few drops of rosemary oil to the affected areas and gently rub for a few minutes. Repeat daily for significant relief.

6. Lavender

Lavender is an excellent home remedy for neuropathy pain in the hands and legs due to its powerful painkilling and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help protect nerves from swelling and relax your body.

Apply a few drops of lavender oil to the affected area.
Massage for 2 minutes.
Repeat a few times daily.

7 . Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is a recommended home remedy for neuropathy pain. It boosts nerve function, stimulates nerves, and increases blood flow. Apply it to the affected area and massage for a few minutes to alleviate numbness and pain in your hands and feet.

8. Castor Oil

Castor oil is an excellent home remedy for neuropathy pain due to its analgesic properties. It helps reduce numbness and repair damaged nerves. Massage it into your limbs, hands, and feet.

To treat neuropathy with essential oils, consider these methods:

1. Creams and lotions: Use or create your own creams by adding a few drops of essential oil to affected areas, then massage.

2. Aromatherapy bath: Mix 4-6 drops of essential oil with one teaspoon of carrier oil, then add to sea salt before mixing into your bath water for a relaxing soak. For sore muscles, use Epsom salt instead.

3. Compress: Utilize hot or cold compresses to enhance circulation or reduce inflammation.