Carpal tunnel syndrome affects 3-5% of the population and is the most common compression neuropathy. Ginger offers relief through its anti-inflammatory-science-utilisation">anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective action.
How ginger helps carpal tunnel syndrome
The syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, often linked to anti-inflammatory-inflammation-natural-remedy">inflammation of the tendons (tenosynovitis). Ginger:
- Reduces tenosynovitis: inhibits inflammation of the flexor tendons that compress the nerve
- Neuroprotection: 6-shogaol protects the median nerve against degradation due to chronic compression
- Pain relief: inhibits COX-2 and substance P, reducing nociceptive and neuropathic pain
- Anti-edema: reduces swelling in the carpal tunnel, freeing up space for the nerve
Clinical results
A pilot study (International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2021) on 40 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome shows that 3g of ginger/day for 10 days significantly improves VAS scores (pain), BCTQ scores (symptoms) and nerve conduction velocity — comparable to wrist splinting alone.
Protocol
- Mild-moderate symptoms: 2-3 INTI shots/day + nighttime splinting
- Post-operative (decompression): 2 INTI shots/day for nerve recovery
- INTI's turmeric-poivre-noir-synergie-bienfaits">turmeric adds a complementary anti-inflammatory effect on the tendon sheath
Conclusion
Ginger reduces inflammation and protects the nerve in the carpal tunnel. INTI Drink is a relevant natural supplement for this common neuropathy.