The sciatic nerve is the body’s longest nerve, starting in the lower spine and running down each leg to the foot. Sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, is more common with age, but it can affect adults of any age.
In fact, it is not always pain – sometimes it is felt as numbness, aching, or tingling. Sciatica can also come with a feeling of weakness in the leg or knee.
Sciatica is caused by pressure on the nerve, most often from a slipped (herniated) spinal disk, but sitting too long or in an awkward position can also bring it on.
Pregnant women often experience sciatica, which can also be triggered by heavy lifting, stress, or, rarely, other medical conditions. If the pain is strong, lasts a long time, or comes with numbness or weakness, see your doctor.
Certain types of stretches may help ease sciatica.
You might not be able to do eight yoga poses each morning before work, but if you have time, give it a try.
Another well-known way to ease sciatica is to lie on your back, with your knees up against your chest or supported by a chair – keep them bent – and your head resting on a pillow. Do this for ten minutes at night or while watching TV.
Essential Oils to Ease Sciatic Nerve Pain
Many people also use essential oils and herbs for sciatica. Remember, essential oils need to be diluted in a carrier oil like avocado, sweet almond, jojoba, coconut oil, grapeseed, or even extra virgin olive oil. Massage the oil into the place where it hurts. If you like, cover the area with a warm cloth, which helps the muscles relax more fully.
Test the oil on a small patch of skin first. If you are pregnant, ask your doctor before using essential oils.
Here is a list of oils you can rub into your skin:
- Mustard oil;
- Lavender essential oil;
- Roman chamomile essential oil;
- Black pepper essential oil.
Other Tricks
- Nettle, saffron, or other tea, or celery juice;
- Fresh lemon juice – some people rub it on the affected area;
- Fresh oregano or thyme added to bathwater.
I should mention, too, that you may add any combination of the essential oils listed above to your bathwater (fifteen drops for normal skin, or ten for sensitive skin). Juniper with mustard or pepper is a popular combination. (Side note: I prefer combining juniper with pepper, but not because it is more effective.)
If these tricks work for you, leave a comment to let us know. We welcome any feedback. Also, feel free to suggest topics you would like us to write about – we want to know what your concerns are.
Via Dynamic
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your doctor about any health concern.