• Share

PRINT

If you’re dealing with strange nerve symptoms such as burning, tingling or electric shock sensations, small fiber neuropathy (SFN) might be the culprit. This condition affects the tiny, unmyelinated nerves responsible for pain, temperature and autonomic functions.

One overlooked cause? Mutations or dysfunction in sodium channels, which act like electrical gates in your nerves. In SFN, these gates can malfunction — staying open too long or firing too often — leading to pain, tingling or weird symptoms like heart palpitations and digestive issues. Blocking or modulating them helps calm the storm.

Certain medications calm nerve hyperexcitability by blocking sodium channels, but did you know there are natural compounds that do too?

While clinical trials are still lacking, I’ve researched promising options and compiled them into a handy downloadable guide (see below).

Let’s look at four natural sodium channel blockers first. Even though they are available without a prescription, consult your doctor about how these would affect your current medication protocol.

Alpha lipoic acid

This supplement reduces oxidative stress and stabilizes nerve membranes, indirectly calming sodium channels. The approximate dosage is 600 mg once or twice daily

Caution: This lowers blood sugar and helps with some complications of diabetes, so monitor closely and double-check with doc if you use insulin or diabetic meds.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD modulates ion channels like Nav1.7, which play a role in pain and inflammation. Start low (10 to 25 mg) and adjust as needed.

Caution: May interact with medications (especially CYP450 substrates such as warfarin, atorvastatin or clopidogrel), potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Capsaicin (chili pepper extract)

Chili pepper extract temporarily overstimulates pain nerves, then desensitizes them. It may influence sodium and TRPV1 channels. Apply it topically with a cream sold online or at pharmacies. There are prescription-strength patches available with a doctor’s order.

Caution: Expect initial burning; do not apply to broken skin. Always remember to wash your hands well and avoid touching your eyes and mouth.

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA)

These strengthen nerve membranes and reduce inflammation and sodium influx. Dose: 1,000 to 3,000 mg daily (combined EPA/DHA).

Caution: May thin blood, which is considered helpful; however, consult your doctor if you take anticoagulants.

If you have hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s, these conditions will worsen sensations of SFN. Also, SFN is a known complication of diabetes, even if you have well-managed glucose.

You can download my free guide at my website, suzycohen.com. Also, consider signing up for my free email newsletter.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.  

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe.