This unpleasant sensation
can be due to a number of problems: a temporary virus infection in the ears,
abnormal blood pressure, anxiety, exhaustion, anaemia or, in many cases, liver
problems.
In many cases, dizzy spells, or vertigo,
can be caused by poor circulation and lack of oxygen to the brain due to
stress, overwork or anxiety. Hearing problems will cause dizziness. Toxic
effects of alcohol, drugs and medications can interfere with oxygen supply to
the brain, causing dizziness. Over-sweating, with loss of fluids and
electrolytes, in unaccustomed hot weather or too much exercise without adequate
fluid intake can also lead to dizziness.
Also, tension in the shoulders or spinal
abnormalities can interrupt circulation, leading to dizziness. Chronic
circulatory problems can result from dizziness, such as arteriosclerosis
(narrowing of the arteries due to plaque build-up on the sides of the
arteries), high or low blood pressure, heart problems and anaemia. Short but
violent attacks of dizziness can be precursors of an impending stroke in the
high-risk group.
The inner ear regulates spatial awareness,
and infections such as labyrinthitis (inflammation of the inner ear) are a
likely source of persistent dizziness and associated nausea and vomiting.
Dizziness caused by low blood sugars is a symptom of hypoglycaemia.
Dietary measures can assist with the
treatment of dizziness. Reduce meals with a high saturated fat content (which
compromises oxygen flow to the brain) and avoid sweet foods which provoke
sudden changes in blood sugar levels. Eat complex carbohydrates like
wholegrains, wholemeal bread, porridge and starchy vegetables, which are
metabolised slowly and do not destabilise blood sugar levels. Eat plenty of
fresh fruit and vegetables, which provide vitamins and minerals essential to
promote optimal oxygen transport to the brain. Dress salads with unrefined,
cold-pressed flax-seed oil, which contains the essential fatty acids, omega 3
and omega 6. These fats, which cannot be manufactured by the body, are
essential for healthy fat metabolism and keeping the arteries clear.
Certain nutrient deficiencies,
particularly deficiencies in vitamin B6 or vitamin B3, can cause dizziness.
To alleviate a sudden attack of dizziness,
take a spoonful of honey to immediately boost blood sugar levels.
If dizziness is due to anaemia, taking
nettle juice, parsley juice and dandelion juice will help.
Dizziness due to anxiety and stress can be
eased by using Valerian and Rosemary.
Rosemary is often used to increase blood
supply to the brain; it also had a strong tonic effect on individuals with
weakness and a tendency to feel cold all the time. Taking a relaxing bath, for
20 minutes, with 1-2 drops of Pine Essential Oil added and resting for 30
minutes after will help persistent dizziness.
If run down, use Siberian Ginseng and
Rosemary to build up your endocrine glands; this will also help blood supply to
the brain. If stress is a factor, include Valerian with the above herbs.
If an infection is the cause of dizziness,
then use Plantain Juice for a few weeks to ease symptoms.
David Foley
MNIMH, MRCHM
Medical Herbalist
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