Ginger is a natural circulatory stimulant and anti-inflammatory herb that has been used for centuries, both internally and externally, in folk medicine.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is an injury associated with repetitive motion and it’s becoming more and more common today. Those who work long hours at computers, musicians and others may be susceptible to this ailment. Good ergonomic posture is critical to protecting yourself; it is worth consulting with an expert about proper equipment, and placement of your keyboard.
If you are concerned that you might have carpal tunnel syndrome, you’ll want to get a professional diagnosis and treatment plan. But meanwhile, this warming compress, straight from your kitchen, can help to relieve the pain:
GINGER COMPRESS FOR ACHEY WRISTS
1 piece fresh gingerroot
2 quarts boiling water
St. John’s wort oil (available at your natural foods store)
Grate fresh gingerroot and tie it in cheesecloth. Put the ginger into the boiling water. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Cool to a warm but comfortable temperature.
To use:
If the skin on your hands and wrists is very sensitive, apply a think layer of St. John’s wort oil to the area around the wrist before you apply the compress.
Remove the cheesecloth with the gingerroot. Dip a clean hand towel into the ginger water. Wring out the excess liquid and apply the comfortably warm cloth to the tender wrist area. Cover with a dry towel to insulate the heat. Rewarm every 5 minutes, as desired.
(Courtesy of the Care 2 Website, adapted from Natural Hand Care, by Norma Pasekoff Weinberg.)
Download this recipe.
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