By: Dr. Keith Darrow, PhD, CCC-A

Can Natural Solutions Help?

If you or a loved one has Meniere’s disease, you know that the unpredictable vertigo, ringing in the ears, and hearing loss can make life feel like a rollercoaster ride you didn’t sign up for. While traditional medical treatments can help manage the symptoms, many people turn to herbal remedies for additional support. So, let’s dive into the world of natural remedies and explore what herbs might actually help ease some of the discomfort Meniere’s brings.

My published cookbook, Healthy Food Healthy Brain, is your definitive guide to doing more to ensure you stay mentally, physically and cognitively healthy by eating the right foods and making sure you feed your brain the very best, every day, every meal. This includes eating the right foods to avoid triggering that nasty tinnitus!

For a complimentary copy of my book, tap this link and get started!  www.brainhealthyrecipes.com.

What Is Meniere’s Disease, Anyway?

For those not entirely familiar, Meniere’s disease is a chronic condition that affects the inner ear, leading to bouts of severe dizziness (vertigo), tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to be linked to fluid build-up in the ear.

The Case for Herbal Remedies

While herbs are not a cure for Meniere’s disease, many people find that incorporating certain natural remedies into their wellness routines can help manage symptoms or improve their overall sense of well-being. It’s important to remember that these aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions, so always consult with a healthcare provider before trying anything new.

Herbal Remedies Worth Considering

1. Ginkgo Biloba: This popular herb is often associated with boosting memory and cognitive function, but did you know it’s also used to support circulation? Because Meniere’s is linked to the inner ear and its blood flow, some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba could help alleviate tinnitus and even reduce vertigo by improving blood circulation in the ear.
2. Ginger: If there’s one herbal remedy people trust for nausea, it’s ginger. Whether taken as a tea, supplement, or raw, ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties that can be a lifesaver during a vertigo attack. Sipping on ginger tea or chewing ginger candies can be a soothing way to combat the dizziness that comes with Meniere’s disease.
3. Turmeric: Known for its active ingredient, curcumin, turmeric is famous for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Inflammation isn’t directly linked to Meniere’s, but some people find that reducing general inflammation in their body helps with overall symptom management. Adding turmeric to your diet or taking it as a supplement might be worth trying for long-term support.
4. Cayenne Pepper: You might be thinking, “Spicy food for vertigo? Really?” Yes! Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which is known to boost circulation. Better blood flow to the inner ear could potentially help reduce vertigo. You can incorporate cayenne into your diet through meals or even try a supplement if you’re up for the heat.
5. Lemon Balm: This herb, part of the mint family, is well-known for its calming effects. If stress or anxiety exacerbates your Meniere’s symptoms, lemon balm tea or capsules might be helpful. Calming your nervous system can reduce the severity of vertigo and give you some mental relief as well.
6. Bilberry: A cousin of blueberries, bilberries are packed with antioxidants and known for supporting blood vessel health. Improved microcirculation could potentially benefit the inner ear, making bilberry an interesting option to explore for those with Meniere’s disease.

What About Essential Oils?

While not exactly herbal remedies, essential oils deserve a mention. Scents like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Diffusing these oils or applying diluted versions to your temples might help you feel more centered and calm during an episode.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Consult Your Doctor: Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen, especially if you’re taking other medications. Some herbs can interact with prescription drugs or have side effects.
• Be Patient: Herbal remedies often take time to show results. Don’t expect an immediate fix; give your body time to adjust.
• Watch for Allergies: Be mindful of any reactions, especially if you’re new to a particular herb.

Lifestyle Tips to Pair with Herbal Remedies

Pairing herbal treatments with certain lifestyle changes can enhance their effects. Try to:

• Manage Salt Intake: High salt intake can cause fluid retention, which may worsen symptoms.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can help balance the fluids in your body.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify foods or stressors that trigger episodes and try to minimize exposure.
• Practice Balance Exercises: Simple exercises can help improve stability and reduce vertigo over time.

Scrumptious snacks can make eating brain foods easier to help prevent brain fog, fatigue, and those mid-afternoon energy slumps. Brain-boosting foods can help you avoid junk food cravings, making it easier to make healthy food choices all day long. Having a supply of good brain-food snacks on hand isn’t hard. It just takes a little planning. Here is one of my favorite snack ideas to keep on hand:

Dark Chocolate and Berries

            One ounce of dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa will provide plenty of antioxidants combined with organic berries. Dark chocolate helps improve blood flow to the brain, increases the body’s production of mood-boosting endorphins that make you happy, and helps you focus better.  Remember – one ounce of dark chocolate and ½ cup of organic berries.

Meniere’s disease is undoubtedly challenging to live with, but there are natural options that might help ease some of the symptoms. While herbs aren’t a cure-all, they can be part of a holistic approach to managing the disease alongside conventional treatments. Finding what works for you might take some time and trial, but with the right combination of strategies, you may find your path to feeling more in control of your life and health.

Would you try any of these herbs for Meniere’s disease? Remember, it’s all about listening to your body and finding what brings you the most comfort.

As I bring you essential information each month about the connection between eating healthy and long term overall active aging, it is important to keep in mind that the number one way to potentially prevent dementia and cognitive decline is to FIRST TREAT YOUR HEARING LOSS!

Please remember this month and every month to treat your hearing loss and tinnitus and feed your brain for optimal performance.

And, again, don’t forget your complimentary free copy of my book! www.brainhealthyrecipes.com

To learn more about aging gracefully, treating hearing loss, and maintaining a healthy brain, please visit – www.excellenceinaudiology.org.