Numerous herbs may help treat degenerative disc disease. According to the Spine Health website, degenerative disc disease is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. Although degeneration of the intervertebral, or spinal, discs is considered by some physicians to be a normal part of the aging process, some people with degenerated discs may experience chronic back pain. Certain herbs may help treat degenerative disc disease-related symptoms, providing relief from the pain or discomfort that is sometimes associated with this condition. A person interested in using herbal remedies as an alternative treatment for degenerative disc disease should first consult a qualified health care professional.
Willow Bark
Willow bark may be an effective herb for treating degenerative disc disease. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," willow bark may be used for numerous health problems, including diarrhea, ulcers, fever, irritability, fatigue and arthritic pain. Willow bark is an astringent, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, or pain reliever. The principle active constituents in willow bark are thought to be salicin and the salicyl glycosides. The Spine Universe website touts willow bark as a possible remedy for degenerative disc disease, due to its ability to quell pain and inflammation -- two symptoms that commonly occur in people with this condition. Tilgner notes that willow bark should not be taken by a person who has a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia. A person with degenerative disc disease interested in trying willow bark should first consult with a qualified health care professional to determine proper dosage and discuss potential side effects.
Chamomile
Chamomile, also called Matricaria recutita, is an herb that may be used to treat degenerative disc disease. The PCC Natural Markets website states that chamomile is a member of the daisy family that is native to Europe and western Asia. German chamomile is the most commonly used variety of the herb. Fresh or dry flower are the parts used in medicinal preparations. Tilgner states that chamomile may be used as an antispasmodic, antiallergenic, antiseptic, carminative, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. The anti-inflammatory action of chamomile is partially attributable to its ability to inhibit arachidonic acid -- a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid. The ability of chamomile to relieve pain, including the pain associated with degenerative disc disease, may be due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that are involved in numerous biological processes, including activation of the inflammatory response and pain generation.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw, also known as Harpagophytum procumbens, may be an effective herb for treating degenerative disc disease. The PCC Natural Markets website states that devil's claw is a plant that is native to southern Africa, Namibia and the island of Madagascar. The name of this herb is derived from the appearance of the herb's fruits, which are covered by tiny, claw-like projections. The secondary storage roots, or tubers, of devil's claw are used medicinally. According to Tilgner, devil's claw is a bitter tonic, anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. Devil's claw is used for many conditions, including arthritis, bursitis, gout, neuralgia, headache and degenerative disc disease. The Spine Universe website touts devil's claw as a treatment for any condition that involves pain and inflammation, including degenerative disc disease. A person with degenerative disc disease should consult a physician for more information about this herb before using it to treat her condition.
