Fibromyalgia is a non-specific syndrome characterized by certain symptoms, such as muscle tenderness, profound fatigue and disrupted sleep cycles, although the causes may differ from person to person. According to MyFibro.com, about one in 50 Americans suffers from fibromyalgia, over 80 percent of whom are women. Ginseng root is an ancient Asian and American Indian remedy that promotes energy and vitality, and may be helpful for those diagnosed with fibromyalgia or who are experiencing similar symptoms.
Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
Diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be difficult because its symptoms often mimic the symptoms of other conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and chronic fatigue syndrome. Further, there are no specific tests that can diagnose fibromyalgia, which means it is diagnosed when other conditions have been ruled out. However, the American College of Rheumatology has set certain criteria that have to be met in order to qualify for a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. The criteria are widespread pain for at least three months, pain in all four quadrants of the body and at least 11 of 18 specific muscular points positive for tenderness with palpation.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Fibromyalgia is often divided into either primary symptoms, which are experienced by all sufferers, and secondary symptoms, which may commonly be experienced by some sufferers. Primary symptoms include dull, achy or stabbing pain within muscles and joints, profound fatigue that dramatically affects daily living, and sleep disturbance described as insomnia, sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome. Secondary symptoms commonly include tension and migraine headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, jaw pain, depression, anxiety, confusion, pelvic pain, skin problems and tingling in the arms and legs.
Properties of Ginseng
There are three species of herbs called ginseng; Oriental, American and Siberian. The Siberian variety is not truly ginseng, but is distantly related to the Oriental species. Oriental ginseng root, or Panax ginseng, is further divided into Chinese and Korean varieties and both have been used for centuries within traditional Chinese medicine protocols. American ginseng, or Panax quinquefolium, has been used by American Indian tribes for as long as can be remembered.
All varieties of ginseng display similar properties and only practically differ in terms of potency. Korean and Siberian ginsengs are considered the most potent and are used to increase physical performance, combat fatigue, boost energy levels, strengthen the immune system and enhance libido, according to "The Way of Chinese Herbs." American ginseng is milder and more suitable for people of all ages and conditions.
Ginseng Use for Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Some studies have demonstrated ginseng's effectiveness for reducing many of the symptoms experienced by fibromyalgia sufferers. A 2004 study published in "Psychological Medicine" found that Siberian ginseng reduced the symptoms of chronic fatigue in patients and increased their energy levels. A 2005 overview published in "Phytotherapy Research" noted that adaptogens such as ginseng can have many positive effects on sufferers of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, including less pain, more energy and better sleep.
References
- MyFibro.com: Fibromyalgia Statistics
- "Professional Guide to Diseases: Ninth Edition"; Springhouse Publishing; 2009
- "The Way of Chinese Herbs"; Michael Tierra; 2008
- "Psychological Medicine"; Randomized Controlled Trial of Siberian ginseng for Chronic Fatigue; A.J. Hartz et al; January 2004
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Stimulating effect of Adaptogens: An Overview with Particular Reference to their Efficacy Following Single Dose Administration; A. Panossian et al; October 2005
