Fibromyalgia is a chronic illness typically characterized by its symptoms, such as widespread muscle pain, tenderness and fatigue. The cause of fibromyalgia is currently not clear. Studies suggest that people with fibromyalgia have a lower pain threshold because the CNS, or central nervous system, becomes highly sensitive to pain-causing stimuli, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some sufferers use herbs for the care and support of fibromyalgia.
Turmeric
Turmeric is the rhizome of the herb curcuma longa. It is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of pain, stiffness and discomfort associated with fibromyalgia. Pain in fibromyalgia is linked to changes in brain molecules. Turmeric, in part, acts against pain by inhibiting the action of the enzymes 5-lipooxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase, which are connected to pain processing in CNS, explains the Huntington College of Health Science.
Rhodiola
People with fibromyalgia often have high levels of stress. Rhodiola is an adaptogen that has been used for centuries to relieve stress and stress related side effects. Today, the fragrant root of rhodiola is used by herbalists to treat fatigue, boost energy and ease the complications of depression and fibromyalgia.
Bromelain
Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme found in pineapples. An extract of fruits and stems of pineapple plants have demonstrated its effectiveness in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Bromelain shows promise in acting against pain and inflammation in a similar way to analgesic drugs like aspirin and Coumadin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
