A herniated disc is also known commonly as slipped disc or a ruptured disk. Your spinal column is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae which are stacked upon each other. These bones have a natural cushioning mechanism which looks similar to rubber discs. The discs protect the bones by absorbing the shocks from daily activities. The disc has two parts: a soft, gelatinous inner portion and a tough outer ring.
Injury or weakness can cause the inner portion of the disk to protrude through the outer ring causing a herniated or slipped disc. A herniated disc may cause severe pain and also affect surrounding nerves. You should consult your doctor immediately if you have lower back pain. While the below remedies are not a substitute for medication, they could help you manage the pain a heal faster. Always make sure to talk to your doctor before using any of the below remedies.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric has been used in traditional medicine in India for thousands of years. The active compound in turmeric is called curcumin which is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Having turmeric regularly can help keep your spine healthy. The antihistamine properties of turmeric also reduce blood flow to those body parts which experience pain caused by a ruptured disc.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is also a great home remedy to treat a herniated disc. You can either apply it topically or consume the pepper if you don’t mind the heat of the spice. Just make a paste of cayenne pepper and water and apply it to the affected area or brew a cayenne pepper tea and have it once a day.
3. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a natural and effective pain reliever. All you need to do is add 1-4 cups of Epsom salt to a bathtub. Fill it with lukewarm water and sink in it for a few minutes till the water comes to room temperature. It’s an easy a relaxing remedy.
4. Horsetail Decoction
Horsetail is an herb that’s high in minerals and is known to nourish various tissues in the body. A decoction prepared from this herb can heal the broken bones and ligament injuries. To make the decoction, add 1 ounce of fresh horsetail leaves to 24 ounces of cold water, and simmer until it reduces to about 16 ounces. Cool the mixture and strain it. Have about 5 to 10 ml of this liquid 4 times a day.
5. California Poppy
This herb is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This means it can help reduce the swelling and reduce the pain caused by the herniated disc. To make the remedy, crush some fresh leaves or poppy seeds and apply the paste on the affected area.
6. White Willow Bark
The bark of white willow is commonly used for reducing the discomfort associated with a herniated disc. The chemical structure of this herb is much similar to aspirin; however, it will not irritate your stomach. The analgesics, anti-stringent and anti-inflammatory properties of this herb help reduce the pain.
7. Comfrey Leaves
The leaves of comfrey aid in the healing of bones and connective tissue. To make a cure, add either one pound of fresh or 6 pounds of dried leaves in five 5 quarts of cold water. Leave it for 12 hours. Later, heat the solution, and add it to the bath water after straining. However, comfrey leaves should not be consumed orally as it may induce liver damage.
8. Boswellia
Boswellia is one of the best natural painkillers you can find. It can help reduce pain and heal the disc. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can decrease swelling and redness.
9. Burdock Root
Burdock roots have antioxidants which can detoxify the body from harmful radicals that are responsible for increasing the inflammation and swelling in your back. Burdock is also used as a natural remedy for rheumatoid arthritis.
10. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a flowering plant with potent anti-inflammatory properties. It is also an antioxidant, antidepressant, and antibacterial. The active ingredient, hyperforin, effectively reduces inflammation and relieves back pain.
11. Passionflower
Passionflower leaves and roots have a long history of use among Native Americans in North America. They contain essential oils that help reduce the muscle spasms in back and neck. Passionflower can be taken in the form of capsules.
