Numerous herbs may help treat your neck pain. According to the Family Doctor website, neck pain may be caused by numerous factors, including trauma, repetitive stress or certain medical conditions. Neck pain may self-resolve, or it may signal a serious underlying health condition that requires the assistance of a qualified health care professional. Before taking herbs to treat your neck pain, visit your doctor for a comprehensive evaluation and assessment.
Arnica
Arnica is an herb that may be effective for treating your neck pain. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC, arnica, also known as Arnica montana or mountain tobacco, has been used to treat numerous musculoskeletal injuries, including ligament sprains and inflammation. The MSKCC states that the anti-inflammatory effects of arnica are attributed to helenalin, a sesquiterpene lactone whose actions include a significant reduction in edema, or swelling. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," arnica has mild analgesic effects, stimulates circulation and is a topical counterirritant. Arnica is used externally for musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains, bruises, rheumatism and sore muscles. Before taking arnica for your neck pain, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Rue
Rue, also known as Ruta graveolens, is an herb that may be effective for treating your neck pain. Tilgner states that rue is an antispasmodic and antimicrobial. The aerial parts of the plant are used medicinally. Rue is used externally for numerous musculoskeletal problems, including tendinitis, ligament sprains, muscle strains and bruises. It may also be used internally, in small doses, for similar conditions. According to Tilgner, rue possesses anti-inflammatory properties, strengthens your capillaries or tiny blood vessels and may be particularly helpful for maintaining or repairing your cartilage and periosteum, or the outermost layer of your bones. Neck tendon, ligament and joint injuries -- which are commonly experienced during motor vehicle accidents -- may benefit from rue. Before taking rue for your neck pain, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is an herb that may be effective for reducing your neck pain. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, St. John's wort, also known as Hypericum perforatum, is a shrubby plant that has been used as a medicinal remedy since the time of ancient Greece. St. John's wort has been used to treat numerous health problems, including nerve pain, wounds, burns, depression, bacterial and viral infections, premenstrual syndrome, seasonal affective disorder and obsessive-compulsive behavior. Tilgner states that St. John's wort is a nervine, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, astringent, sedative, antioxidant and antibacterial. St. John's wort, according to Tilgner, is especially effective for nerve pain, which is a common source of discomfort in your neck. Before taking St. John's wort for your neck pain, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
