Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome causing physical symptoms of widespread pain, heightened skin and sensory sensitivity as well as mental health disturbances, including anxiety and depression. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, more women experience fibromyalgia than men and the disrupting symptoms can linger or vacillate, depending on individual perceptions of pain. Fibromyalgia is not life-threatening, but symptoms can become disruptive enough to alter quality of life for any given amount of time. There is no specific known cause for developing fibromyalgia, yet various factors such as abnormal brain neurotransmitters, viral infections and autonomic nervous system disruptions can increase risk.
Step 1
Talk to a homeopathic practitioner. Before beginning herbal treatment, consult a licensed professional regarding your specific symptoms and the herbs used to treat these symptoms. A homeopath can prescribe herbal medicines and can discuss possible drug interaction issues you need to stay aware of if you are also receiving traditional medical treatment.
Step 2
Apply topical cayenne to sore areas on your body. Cayenne contains capsaicin, which inhibits the release of neurotransmitters to communicate the presence of pain. Holistic Online suggests mixing 1 part cayenne powder with 3 parts wintergreen oil and rubbing the mixture on tender or pained areas of the body. Use this mixture up to three times a day for pain management.
Step 3
Take St. John's wort for depression symptoms. According to the Arthritis Foundation, use of St. John's wort increases serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation that is low in people experiencing depression. This herb is also helpful in relieving stress and nerve pains, and it has antiviral properties. Take 300mg three times a day for improving mood. Do not take St. John's wort if you are taking prescribed antidepressant medications.
Step 4
Stop muscle spasms and inflammation with calendula and turmeric. Calendula and turmeric are available as oral capsules or as topical agents applied to the skin. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Medline Plus indicate that both herbs are considered safe for most adults. However, little scientific evidence exists for validating health benefits beyond the anti-inflammatory effects.
Step 5
Relax your muscles with a tea sedative. Valerian is an herb used for treating sleep disturbance common in fibromyalgia. The Office of Dietary Supplements indicates that dried valerian root is best prepared as a tea. You can also add skullcap with the valerian to aid in sleep and muscle relaxation. Boil 8 oz. of water and place bits of the valerian root into an infuser. Pour the water over the infuser, and let it steep for 10 minutes. Drink this tea nightly to ease your body and aid in falling to sleep.
Step 6
Take a garlic supplement daily. According to Holistic Online, garlic is an immune-system enhancer that aids in detoxifying your body. Use 5,000mcg three times a day to improve your immune system. Fibromyalgia lowers the immune system's ability to ward off infections, and using garlic can help prevent unnecessary ailments.
Tips and Warnings
- Choose herbal remedies specific to your symptoms for best results. Discuss your plans to use herbal treatment with your physician.
- Use caution with turmeric if you are taking blood thinners. The herb can enhance their effects, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Things You'll Need
- Cayenne powder
- Wintergreen oil
- Turmeric
- Calendula
- St. John's wort
- Valerian
- Skullcap
- Garlic
- Tea infuser
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fibromyalgia
- Holistic Online: Fibromyalgia Alternative Medicine
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Turmeric
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Valerian Fact Sheet
- Arthritis Foundation: Frequently Asked Questions About Fibromyalgia
- Medline Plus: Calendula
