By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Numbness In Hands
Herbal decoctions for numbness in hands are a natural remedy that combines herbs, roots, and botanicals to soothe and relieve tingling sensations in the fingers.
These concoctions work by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and calming nerve endings, thereby alleviating numbness and discomfort. For instance, decoctions made with ginseng, turmeric, and ginger have been shown to effectively reduce numbness in hands, allowing individuals to regain sensitivity and mobility.
This improved circulation and reduced numbness enables people to perform daily tasks with ease, enhancing their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for numbness in hands, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Curcuma longa
- 3. Zingiber officinale
- 4. Capsicum annuum
- 5. Withania somnifera
- 6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 7. Mentha x piperita
- 8. Valeriana officinalis
- 9. Hypericum perforatum
- 10. Harpagophytum procumbens
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for numbness in hands?
- What ailments similar to numbness in hands are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with numbness in hands because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds that help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
The antioxidants present in the decoction also help to neutralize free radicals that can cause numbness and tingling sensations.
By increasing oxygen and nutrient supply to the nerves, maidenhair tree decoctions may help to alleviate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, allowing for improved sensation and function in the hands.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Ginkgo biloba help improve blood flow to the hands by enhancing the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and increases oxygen supply to numb hands.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the hands, which may contribute to numbness.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide, a terpenoid in Ginkgo biloba, has neuroprotective properties that help improve blood flow to the hands by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in nerve cells, which may alleviate numbness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Leaves: They are the primary source of ginkgo biloba's active compounds, including flavonoids and terpenoids, which help improve blood circulation and alleviate numbness.
- Barks: The bark of the ginkgo tree contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help to improve circulation and reduce numbness in hands.
- Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which can help to improve blood circulation and reduce numbness in the hands.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for numbness in hands.
- Harvest 4-8 ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees in the fall or spring seasons.
- Dry the leaves in a warm place for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Crush the dried leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 2-3 grams of the powdered leaves with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes to extract active compounds.
2. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with numbness in hands because it contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
When consumed as a decoction, curcumin is absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to areas of inflammation, such as joints and extremities like the hands.
There, it reduces swelling, soothes irritation, and promotes healing, thereby alleviating numbness and tingling sensations in the hands.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a phenolic compound, helps with numbness in hands by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to numbness and tingling sensations.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a curcuminoid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate numbness in hands by preventing the damage of nerve cells and reducing pain.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help with numbness in hands by reducing inflammation, promoting nerve regeneration, and relieving pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Rhyzomes: Used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to relieve numbness and pain in the hands.
- Roots: Utilized for their warming and stimulating effects, which can increase blood circulation and reduce numbness in the hands.
- Leaves: Employed for their ability to promote blood flow and relieve numbness, making them a popular ingredient in traditional remedies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for numbness in hands.
- Harvest 2 to 3 grams of dried curcuma longa rhizomes and clean them thoroughly under cold running water.
- Boil 200 milliliters of water and add the dried curcuma longa rhizomes to the boiling water.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Allow the decoction to cool down before consuming it as a herbal remedy.
3. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with numbness in hands because they improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have natural anti-inflammatory properties that help to relax the blood vessels and increase blood flow to the extremities. This increased blood flow helps to alleviate numbness and tingling sensations in the hands by providing oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas.
Additionally, ginger's warming and relaxing effects can also help to ease muscle tension and discomfort associated with numbness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and numbness in hands by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of gingerol derivative, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help alleviate numbness in hands by scavenging free radicals, reducing inflammation, and modulating the nervous system.
- Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help relieve numbness in hands by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, and promoting the release of pain-relieving neurotransmitters.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Rhyzomes: The most used part, as they contain high concentrations of gingerols and shogaols, compounds that provide pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Also commonly used, as they contain similar compounds to rhyzomes and are often harvested and dried for later use in decoctions.
- Stems: Although less commonly mentioned, some sources suggest that ginger stems can be used to make decoctions for numbness in hands, potentially due to their secondary content of ginger compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for numbness in hands.
- Gather 2-3 grams of dried zingiber officinale root and store it in a clean dry container.
- Combine 250 milliliters of boiling water with the dried zingiber officinale root in a saucepan.
- Allow the zingiber officinale root to steep in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
- Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
4. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper decoctions helps with numbness in hands because of its ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation.
The antioxidants present in bell peppers, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, help to protect against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to numbness and tingling sensations. Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory properties can help to relieve pressure on nerves, reducing discomfort and improving circulation.
By promoting healthy blood flow and reducing inflammation, bell pepper decoctions can effectively alleviate numbness in the hands.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with numbness in hands by blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing inflammation and relieving pain in the hands.
- Beta-carotene: Beta-Carotene helps with numbness in hands by acting as an antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress and promotes the healing of damaged nerve endings, thus alleviating numbness and pain in the hands.
- Quercetin: Quercetin helps with numbness in hands by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to pain and inflammation in the hands, thereby providing relief from numbness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Fruits: The fruits of Capsicum annuum, specifically the ripe ones, are commonly used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their high capsaicin content, which helps to stimulate blood flow and relieve numbness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Capsicum annuum are used in decoctions for numbness in hands because they contain capsaicin, which helps to increase circulation and reduce numbness.
- Seeds: The seeds of Capsicum annuum are used in decoctions for numbness in hands due to their high concentration of capsaicin, which helps to stimulate blood flow and relieve numbness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for numbness in hands.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of fresh capsicum annuum fruits from your garden or a trusted supplier.
- Cut the fruits into small pieces and combine them with 2 liters of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture over high heat for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.
5. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha decoctions helps with numbness in hands because of its adaptogenic properties that promote overall nervous system health.
The herb's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nerves, which can contribute to numbness and tingling sensations in the hands.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy nerve function, ashwagandha decoctions may help to alleviate numbness and improve circulation, leading to a reduction in symptoms associated with conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Withanolides: Withanolides, a group of steroidal lactones, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate numbness in hands by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nerves.
- Withaferin a: Withaferin A, an alkaloid compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects that help prevent numbness in hands by protecting the nerves from damage and promoting nerve regeneration.
- Withanoside iv: Withanoside IV, a saponin glycoside, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce numbness in hands by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting blood flow to the nerves.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Roots: They are rich in bioactive compounds, making them effective in treating numbness and promoting nerve health.
- Leaves: They contain a high amount of withanolides, which help in reducing inflammation and improving nerve function.
- Barks: They are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to their ability to alleviate numbness and promote nerve health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for numbness in hands.
- Gather 2-4 grams of dried withania somnifera root and 1 cup of water for decoction.
- Weigh 2-4 grams of dried withania somnifera root and place it in a saucepan.
- Boil 1 cup of water for 5-10 minutes and then add the withania somnifera root.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid is reduced to half a cup.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain a final herbal remedy.
6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with numbness in hands because of its ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
The active compounds, particularly glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid, have a vasodilatory effect, which dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow to the extremities. This enhanced circulation helps to alleviate numbness by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the hands, reducing symptoms of tingling and stiffness.
Additionally, licorice's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with numbness, promoting overall hand health and function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with numbness in hands by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system, which can alleviate symptoms of numbness and pain.
- Licopyranocoumarin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the nerves, thereby relieving numbness in the hands.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with numbness in the hands by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Roots: They are used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate numbness and pain.
- Barks: They are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief from numbness and pain in the hands.
- Buds: They are used due to their high glycoside content, which helps to reduce inflammation and provide numbing relief to the hands.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for numbness in hands.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 2 cups of water for decoction.
- Combine the roots and water in a pot and bring to a boil at 212 degrees fahrenheit.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
- Allow the decoction to cool before refrigerating and consuming within 24 hours.
7. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with numbness in hands because of its natural ability to improve blood circulation.
The menthol present in peppermint stimulates the nerves, increasing blood flow and oxygen supply to the hands, which helps to alleviate numbness caused by poor circulation or nerve compression.
Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with numbness, providing relief from tingling sensations and restoring feeling to the affected area.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Menthol: Menthol helps with numbness in hands by increasing blood flow and stimulating the nerve endings, which can help to reduce numbness and tingling sensations.
- Limonene: Limonene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation that may be contributing to numbness in the hands.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the nerves, potentially helping to alleviate numbness and tingling sensations in the hands.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which provides a cooling sensation and helps relieve numbness and pain.
- Stems: Stems, particularly the aerial parts, contain menthol and other compounds that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for numbness relief.
- Buds: Buds are also rich in menthol and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and numbness in the hands, making them a popular choice for decoctions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for numbness in hands.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh or 1/4 cup dried mentha x piperita leaves and flowers.
- Chop the harvested leaves and flowers into small pieces for better infusion.
- Combine the chopped mentha x piperita with 2 cups of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
8. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian decoctions helps with numbness in hands because it promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which are common causes of numbness.
The herb's sedative properties help to calm the nervous system, alleviating feelings of tingling and numbness. Additionally, valerian's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce swelling and irritation in the extremities, further contributing to its numbing relief effects.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, herbal valerian decoctions provide a natural remedy for alleviating numbness in hands.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Valerenic acid: It acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, potentially alleviating numbness in hands by reducing muscle tension.
- Valeranone: It is a terpene that has sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce numbness in hands by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms.
- Isovaleric acid: It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with numbness in hands, potentially alleviating numbness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Roots: Roots: The primary part used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their high concentration of valerenic acid and valeranone, which have analgesic and sedative properties.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: Often used interchangeably with roots, rhyzomes are another part of the plant used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their similar chemical composition.
- Barks: Barks: The barks of Valeriana officinalis are used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their content of valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for numbness in hands.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh valeriana officinalis roots and clean them thoroughly under running water.
- Cut the roots into small pieces and combine them with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the roots to infuse their active compounds into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for later use.
9. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort decoctions helps with numbness in hands because of its ability to improve blood circulation.
The herb contains hyperforin, a compound that has been shown to increase blood flow and oxygenation to the extremities, which can help alleviate numbness and tingling sensations in the hands. Additionally, St John's wort has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and pressure on nerves, further contributing to its numbing-relieving effects.
By promoting healthy blood flow and reducing inflammation, St John's wort decoctions can provide natural relief from hand numbness and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Hyperforin: This prenylated phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate numbness in hands by reducing swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
- N-propylamides: These alkaloids have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help numbness in hands by blocking pain signals to the brain and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent antioxidant properties, which help alleviate numbness in hands by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area, promoting blood flow and nerve function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Leaves: The leaves of Hypericum perforatum are used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their antispasmodic properties, which help to relax muscles and reduce pain.
- Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum are used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate numbness.
- Stems: The stems of Hypericum perforatum are used to make decoctions for numbness in hands due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from numbness and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for numbness in hands.
- Harvest 20 to 30 grams of fresh or 10 to 20 grams of dried plant material at the peak of flowering.
- Wash the plant material gently with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
- Combine the plant material with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
10. Harpagophytum procumbens
Devil's claw decoctions helps with numbness in hands because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the joints.
The decoction's ability to relax muscles and calm the nervous system also alleviates numbness and tingling sensations caused by conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy.
Additionally, devil's claw contains harpagoside, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the release of substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain transmission, providing relief from numbness and discomfort in the hands.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens decoctions that help with numbness in hands.
- Harpagoside: Harpagoside is a phenylethanoid glycoside that acts as a vasodilator, helping to improve blood flow to the hands, which can alleviate numbness caused by reduced circulation.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce swelling and pain in the hands, thus relieving numbness caused by inflammation or injury.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Harpagophytum procumbens may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce pain and discomfort in the hands, which can contribute to numbness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make decoctions for numbness in hands.
- Roots: The roots of Harpagophytum procumbens are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of harpagoside, a key compound responsible for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are sometimes used in decoctions for their secondary content of harpagoside, although their efficacy is less than that of the roots.
- Seeds: The seeds, although not as commonly used as the roots, contain smaller amounts of harpagoside and are occasionally utilized in decoctions for their mild analgesic effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for numbness in hands.
- Gather 50 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens root and 1 liter of water for decoction preparation.
- Crush the dried root into smaller pieces to increase surface area for efficient extraction.
- Combine crushed root with water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow for optimal extraction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for numbness in hands?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with numbness in hands is a blend of Ginger, Turmeric, and Ashwagandha.
Ginger's warming properties and anti-inflammatory compounds help to increase blood flow and reduce pain, while Turmeric's curcumin content reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps to balance the body's response to stress, which can contribute to numbness in the hands.
Combine 1 part of each decoction and drink twice a day to alleviate numbness and improve hand circulation.
What ailments similar to numbness in hands are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to numbness in hands that are treated with herbal decoctions are conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and nerve damage.
Herbal decoctions containing turmeric, ginger, and ginseng have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and numbness in the hands.
Decoctions made from St. John's Wort, ashwagandha, and devil's claw can also provide relief from joint pain and stiffness associated with these conditions.