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At this point, it is a well-known fact that sciatica, often referred to as low back pain, is not a disease but rather a symptom of some health problems.
Injury of the sciatic nerve, which is responsible for sensation in almost all parts of the leg, is the key cause of low back pain or sciatica.
Lumber stenosis, piriformis syndrome, tumors, pelvic injuries, and herniated disc are the most common causes of this issue, while risk factors which contribute to its development include poor lifestyle habits, physical inactivity, strenuous physical activity, mental stress, age, etc.
Most sciatica sufferers turn to anti-depressants, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, and therapeutics to alleviate the pain, but the prevalence rates are still constantly on the rise. These days, some people choose to go the more natural route by practicing yoga or making visits to a chiropractor.
But, did you know that recent studies show that herbs can serve as another natural method for alleviating sciatica pain.
Reversing Sciatica Pain
Experts believe that cucumin, turmeric`s active ingredient, can be used as tonic to reduce chronic inflammation. For optimal results, it is recommended to heat the spice in milk and coconut oil along with a bit of pepper.
Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that promotes better bioavailability. Another way to ensure optimal absorption os to take enteric-coated capsules with piperine.
To reap turmeric`s benefits, consume it as tea, use it for cooking, or simply apply it as paste onto the affected area.
The aforementioned curcumin is a polyphenolic compound with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties. As such, it has the ability to cure many chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic diseases, pulmonary diseases, and tumors.
Turmeric Lowers Levels of Certain Inflammation-Fueling Enzymes
Turmeric`s ability to relieve sciatica pain and swelling is attributed to its capacity to lower the levels of some inflammation-fueling enzymes. To alleviate pain and inflammation, the suggested dosage for an average adult is 300 mg of turmeric, taken three times daily.
The dosage should be adjusted in case you are taking medications. It is also worth mentioning that turmeric supplements may contain bromelain, a compound which is known to boost the anti-inflammatory effects.
Due to its ability to reduce inflammation, which is actually often the underlying cause of low back pain, turmeric has been long used in Ayurveda to treat arthritis. It has been used in traditional medicine in Asia as well, as had been scientifically shown that turmeric extract helps relieve nerve-related pain.
Turmeric Better Than NSAIDs
Turmeric works as selective COX-2 inhibitor. Both COX-1 and COX-2 are enzymes that initiate inflammatory process. The first one is considered to be good as it performs a “housekeeping role” around inflammation while the latter is responsible for greater inflammation.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSADs), including naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin are not selective and inhibit both of the aforementioned enzymes while turmeric targets COX-2 only.
Drug companies have been trying to create selective COX-2 over the last decade, but why take a medication when something as simple as turmeric provides the same effect? It`s far cheaper and far safer, too.