"Peripheral neuropathy" is a condition of the nervous system where the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are damaged. It is commonly felt in the hands and feet, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness.

 In Ayurveda, this condition is considered an imbalance of the Vata dosha. Vata governs the functions of the nervous system. An increase or decrease in Vata can disrupt the normal functioning of the nerves and lead to various diseases that fall under the category of "Vata Vyadhi." Although peripheral neuropathy is not precisely described as a single disease in Ayurveda, conditions with similar symptoms are treated by relating them to the aggravation of Vata dosha.

 Vata Dosha - Role in the Nervous System:

➔   Movement and Communication: Vata is responsible for all types of movement, including the transmission of nerve impulses throughout the body. It governs sensory and motor functions, essentially acting as the communication network of the body.  

➔  Prana Vayu: One of the five sub-types of Vata, Prana Vayu, resides primarily in the head and is closely related to the central nervous system. It governs higher mental functions like reasoning, learning, creativity, reception of information, interpretation of signals, and consciousness.

➔  Control Center: Ayurveda considers the head (Murdha) the primary seat of Prana Vata, which is analogous to the control center of the nervous system. Prana Vata influences almost all bodily functions by generating motor impulses after processing sensory information.

The treatment of peripheral neuropathy in Ayurveda mainly includes the following:

●     Restoring Dosha Balance: Treatment is given to pacify the Vata dosha and balance the other doshas (Pitta and Kapha) in the body.

●      Panchakarma Therapy: This helps to remove toxins (Ama) from the body and balance the doshas. The main Panchakarma treatments recommended for peripheral neuropathy are:

●      Abhyangam: Massage with medicated oils helps to nourish the nerves and reduce pain.

●      Vasti: This is a primary treatment for controlling Vata dosha. Medicated decoctions or oils are administered as     enemas.

●      Swedanam: Steam therapy using medicinal herbs helps to reduce stiffness in the body and improve blood            circulation.

●      Shirodhara: Pouring oil in a continuous stream on the forehead can help reduce mental stress and calm the           nervous system.

●      Navarakizhi: It is effective in treating neurological disorders, helping to calm the nerves, improve nerve                conduction, and alleviate symptoms like numbness, tingling, and paralysis.

●      Diet: It is recommended to eat food that does not aggravate the Vata dosha and is nutritious. Easily digestible and warm foods, grains, vegetables, and fruits should be included. Cold and dry foods should be avoided.

●      Lifestyle: Regular exercise, yoga, and meditation can help improve the health of the nervous system and reduce stress.

Ayurvedic treatment methods for peripheral neuropathy may vary depending on the cause, the patient's condition, and the symptoms. Therefore, it is very important to seek treatment under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. If neuropathy is caused by other conditions such as diabetes, it is essential to treat that underlying cause as well.

By
Dr. Arun T Namboothiri MD (Ayu)
Consultant Ayurveda Physician
Diabetes & Wound Clinic
Dr. P. Alikutty’s Ayurveda and Modern Hospital - Kottakkal