Back pain usually comes from damaged nerves, deterioration of the disks or strained muscles, explains Dr. James Balch, a longtime urological surgeon and naturopathic doctor. He recommends devil's claw root, yucca root, white willow bark, arnica and St. John's wort. Still, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the effect these herbs have on relieving back pain.
Devil's Claw Root
The roots of this herb may reduce inflammation and pain. Take 1,500mg to 2,500mg powdered devil's claw root in tablet or capsule form, or 1ml to 2ml tincture, three times a day. Side effects include digestive problems. low blood pressure and increased heart rate. Dr. Balch warns that devil's claw should be avoided by those having a history of gallstones, heartburn or ulcers. The National Library of Medicine also issues these warnings and cautions those using blood thinners such as warfarin, children and pregnant or nursing women as well.
Yucca Root
Yucca or cassava root is a staple in many African and South American countries. Take 1,500mg to 2,500mg or 1ml to 2ml yucca root three times a day, which may alleviate inflammation and pain. A common side effect is diarrhea when too much is taken or eaten. Some people experience irritation of the mouth and throat.
White Willow Bark
Dr. Balch prescribes a white willow bark product containing 240mg or 5ml of the active ingredient, salicin, three times a day. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC, white willow bark has a chemistry very similar to aspirin. It was actually used to develop aspirin in the 1800s.Therefore, it should not be taken by those who are allergic to aspirin, including children, because of the association between aspirin and Reye's syndrome. It may interact with other drugs and herbs by strengthening the effect of blood thinners--including beta blockers, diuretics or water pills and Dilantin--and increasing the risk of stomach bleeding. Consult a doctor before taking white willow bark. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid it altogether.
Arnica
Apply arnica oil or cream externally on affected areas twice a day. The UMMC warns that it can cause serious side effects if taken internally unless extremely diluted according to homeopathic standards by an experienced professional and monitored by a doctor, who can determine the right dosage for children. Internal doses may cause dizziness, tremors or involuntary muscle movements, irregular heartbeat, irritation of mucous membranes and vomiting. Steady, long-term external use may cause skin irritation. Pregnant and nursing women should consult a doctor before taking arnica.
St. John's Wort
Dr. Balch recommends St. John's wort oil to reduce nerve pain in the back, although further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Rub the oil on affected areas twice a day. According to Medline, 1 percent to 3 percent of users may experience common side effects such as skin irritation, digestive problems, fatigue or chronic tiredness that could lead to sedation, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, light sensitivity, dizziness, headaches and dry mouth. These side effects are usually associated with internal use. St. John's wort interferes with how the body processes certain drugs. This causes an increase in the level of the drugs in the bloodstream and leads to an increased effect, adverse reactions and long-term, decreased levels in the blood in such drugs as Carbamazepine, cyclosporin, irinotecan, midazalom, nifedipine, simvastatin, theophylline, warfarin or HIV drugs. St. John's wort should also be avoided by pregnant and nursing women.
References
- "Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens DC)"; U.S. National Library of Medicine; July, 2010
- "Yucca Root (Yucca spp)"; Herbal Information Center
- "Willow bark"; UMMC; Ehrlich, N.M.D, Steven; December, 2008
- "Arnica"; UMMC; Ehrlich, N.M.D.; Steven; August, 2008
- "St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.)"; U.S. National Library of Medicine; July, 2010
