Rubbing Back the Feeling: 6 Essential Oils for Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

Neuropathy refers to nerve damage leading to numbness, tingling sensations, and even pain in the affected area(s). Though it has many causes, diabetes is a major neuropathy contributor that damages blood vessels to cut off the nerves’ blood and nutrient supply, particularly those of the extremities (hands and feet).

Although incurable, the pain and damage of diabetic neuropathy can be minimized, even reversed, through various natural solutions, with the most effective being soothing essential oils. So, here are some of the best essential oils for long-lasting DN relief which hopefully work before you book an appointment with a top diabetologist in Lahore.

1-Peppermint:

Extracted from its namesake leaves, the menthol in peppermint oil helps control muscle spasms by warming and relaxing the skin and muscles of the affected areas, while still producing an overall cooling effect. It also improves blood circulation to relieve numbness and discomfort in neuropathic areas. However, its stimulant nature and strong scent make it suitable for use before bed and around the eyes. Simply mix a few drops of peppermint and a carrier oil (e.g. coconut) and massage the effective parts using circular motions.

2-Lavender:

An aromatherapy staple that acts as an anti-stress and antidepressant, its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties make it excellent for treating diabetic neuropathy. Lavender oil also helps restore the nervous system’s functioning and damaged nerve endings. You can use lavender oil directly by diluting it with a few drops of carrier oil, or mix it into cocoa butter with 2 drops rosemary oil.

3-Eucalyptus:

Like peppermint, the strong-scented eucalyptus oil not only improves respiration, but also reduces muscle spasms and inflammation by promoting muscular and skin relaxation. It is also a highly effective painkiller, antiseptic and antibacterial solution. Simply add a few drops to an unscented lotion to simultaneously keep your skin moisturized and combat neuropathy.

4-Roman Chamomile:

A thousand-year-old neuralgia (intense nerve pain in the head or face) treatment, this apple-scented essential oil helps reverse diabetic neuropathy by de-constricting blood vessels and improving blood circulation. Roman chamomile can be used on its own after diluting with a carrier oil, combined with ylang-ylang for maximum effect. Make sure to consult a neuro physician in Karachi before deciding on any of these oils.

5-Lemongrass:

Native to the mountain plains of Pakistan, lemongrass is an excellent digestive when decanted as tea, and provides efficient neuropathic pain relief by sedating the affected nerves when used as an oil. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can be used by combining with a few drops of a carrier oil.

6-Ylang-Ylang:

Extracted from the petals of the yellow Ylang-Ylang flower native to the Far East, this particular essential oil helps repair damaged nerves soothes neuropathic nerve pain. Its sweet, floral aroma adds to the oil’s appeal, and can be combined with similarly fragrant carrier and essential oils like almond, citrus, and lavender.

Essential Oil Tips:

• Watch out for potential allergens. Carefully read the ingredients when buying a bottle of essential oil.
• Always dilute an essential oil with a carrier like olive, almond, and coconut oil as undiluted essential oils can irritation and inflammation.
• Do a patch test prior to applying over large areas of skin to check for signs of allergy like red patches, itchiness, and acne breakouts.
• For topical application, mix 1 ounce of a carrier oil to every 12 drops of essential oil to avoid inflammation.
• For an optimum neuropathy-friendly massage experience, mix an essential oil with a massage oil like avocado, cocoa butter, olive, and sesame oil.
• Essential oils can also be diluted by adding small amounts into bathwater for a body-wide pain relief in case of multiple neuropathy.
• Add a few drops of essential oil into a diffuser for dealing with associated neuropathy symptoms like insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
• Pregnant women should always consult with their doctors before using essential oils.

While most cases of neuropathy are due to diabetes, nerve pain can also result from other factors like infections, physical trauma and autoimmune disorders. So if you feel your hands, feet, or other body parts going unexplainably numb, contact your doctor to determine the root cause.

You can also book an appointment with a top Diabetologist in Multan, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your nervous concerns.