Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) describes a medical condition where the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the wrist at the carpal tunnel, which is a small channel that surrounds the nerve as it passes from the arm through the wrist into the hand, fingers and thumb. When the tendons swell, circulation and nerve function are hindered. Carpal tunnel is caused by repetitive motion and may worsen at night, which interferes with quality sleep. The main symptoms include pain, numbness and tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and the thumb side of the ring finger and may extend up the arm. Grip strength and dexterity weaken over time, and without intervention, the muscles at the base of the thumb may atrophy.

 

Avoid

Iron supplements

High sodium

High Oxalic acid foods such as: beets, beet greens, rhubarb, spinach, swiss chard, endive, cocoa powder, kale, sweet potatoes, peanuts, turnip greens

 

Supplements to Consider

B6 - Clinical data strongly suggests that a deficiency of B6 may contribute to CTS. While 25 mg is considered adequate, some treatments for CTS involve taking 200 mg for 2-3 weeks, then half that dose for another 1-2 weeks. Results are not typically seen for a month up to six weeks. Caution: Discuss dosage with your health care practitioner. High doses of B6 can be toxic and it is best used with with other vitamins, such as B12.

Bromelain may help reduce inflammation and swelling. Typical dosage: 500 mg 1-3 times daily, preferably between meals.

Boswellia with 65% boswellic acid - may help reduce inflammation and ease joint and nerve pain. Typical dosage: 300-500 mg in capsules 2-3 times daily.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids may help reduce inflammation and support tissue regeneration. Typical dosage: 1,000 mg with each of three meals.

Ginkgo increases blood flow, reduce swelling, supports nerve function. Typical dosage: 60 mg of extract in capsules or tablets standardized to 24% flavone glycosides, 2-3 times daily.

Grapeseed extract inhibits swelling and inflammation. Typical dosage: 500 mg 2-3 times daily.

Magnesium supports healthy muscle function. We prefer Ancient Minerals Sensitive Plus.

Turmeric 95% curcumin reduces inflammation. Typical dosage: one 300 mg capsule 1-3 times daily / or 10-30 drops tincture up to 3 times daily / or up to 1 tsp powered spice per day in food.

 

Carrier Oils to consider:

St. John’s Wort infused oil - use as a carrier enhances both the analgesic and the anti-inflammatory effects of essential oils used with it (Journal of Clinical Aromatherapy)

Arnica infused oil

Castor oil

Emu oil

Hemp oil

 

Single Essential Oils to consider:

Birch

Black Pepper

Cedarwood

Chamomile, Roman and/or German

Cypress

Eucalyptus radiata or globulus

Ginger

Helichrysum

Laurel Leaf

Marjoram

Oregano

Peppermint

Pine

Rosemary

Spruce

 

Carpal Tunnel Relief

As an example - you could combine equal amounts of:

Helichrysum 

Rosemary

Peppermint

Eucalyptus radiata or globulus

Ginger

Choose a combination of the carrier oils listed above

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by Valerie Worwood

Massage both hands, arms, and shoulders twice a day with:

Marjoram 10 drops

Lavender 10 drops

Eucalyptus 10 drops

Diluted in 2 tablespoons carrier oil

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Hand Bath by Roberta Wilson

1 drop Chamomile

1 drop Helichrysum

1 drop Spruce

Add the oils to a large [glass, ceramic, stainless - not plastic] bowl with warm water. Soak your hands for ten to twenty minutes. Move your hands and wrists back and forth in the water to gently massage the affected areas.

Testimonies

1. My mom was once “rescued” from disabling carpal tunnel syndrome by an old home remedy of drinking apple cider vinegar on a daily basis. She tried it as a last resort (had not thought of using essential oils), and the result was nothing short of miraculous. I would not have believed it had I not seen it with my own eyes.

 

2. My carpal tunnel is flaring again. I used Regeneration for the past few days and didn't notice much difference--but at least it's not worse. A week later the carpal tunnel is MUCH better. I'm not sure if it's the Regeneration, the pressure points, or the vitamin D. I have tried to be consistent with all three. It's not 100% gone, but I no longer need or want the splints, and this is while continuing to do heavy work in my yard. I'm going to continue Regeneration for another week, but I'm very happy with the direction this seems to be heading! - Anne

 

3. A lady was saying just today that her carpal tunnel flares a lot at night and wakes her up. She puts a few drops of Lavender on her wrists and the pain subsides right away. - Nadine

4. Thank you for the ConnectEase. I use it at 25% dilution in a roll-on applicator. It has been helpful in relieving increasing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in both of my wrists. It is a lovely smelling blend as well. - Stari

 

5. My husband had pain in his thumb joint for weeks (possibly carpal tunnel?). He has used about 3/4 of ConnectEase roll-on bottle [25% dilution] over about 1-1/2  months and his pain has improved somewhat (about 40-50% better). Please note that he has also sometimes tried to use his thumb in different ways to help with the pain. Thank you! - Diana

6. My mom (78) had carpal tunnel surgery several years ago. Things were fine for a few years but then the pain returned. I gave her a roller bottle of Regeneration and she is so happy with it. Regeneration greatly reduced the pain and has made it possible for her to continue to enjoy life and keep her busy (hard-working) life. She rides a horse, and prior to the Regeneration oil she thought she would have to give up riding because of the pain when holding the reins. Regeneration has made it possible for her to continue riding her horse, do chores around their small farm and enjoy life in general.  Thank you, Linda!!!! - Kim

 

References

Schnaubelt Ph.D., Kurt (2011-11-08), The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Advanced Aromatherapy, page 148.

White, Linda B. MD, Foster, Steven, The Herbal Drugstore, pages 154-157 (supplement information above).

Wilson, Roberta, Aromatherapy PA

Worwood, Valerie Ann (2012-08-23), The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-toxic & Fragrant Recipes to Create Health • Beauty • A Safe Home Environment.