Fibromyalgia affects about 2 percent of Americans, and more women than men develop this condition, according to The Family Doctor website. Fibromyalgia is a disorder associated with chronic pain in your muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. Herbal therapies for fibromyalgia exist and have helped many people suffering with this condition. However, you should always talk with your physician about risks and side effects before using herbal medications.
Fibromyalgia
Although there is no known cause of fibromyalgia, researchers suspect that several factors may contribute to the development of this common and painful condition, including genetics, certain infections and physical or emotional trauma. MayoClinic.com states that one of the most characteristic signs and symptoms associated with fibromyalgia is the presence of distinct tender spots throughout the body, including your upper chest, outer hips and inner knees. Risk factors for fibromyalgia include being a middle-aged female, having a family history of the disorder and suffering from sleeping difficulties.
Herbal Therapies
According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," there are many herbs that may be effective for treating fibromyalgia, including astragalus, echinacea, black walnut, garlic, boswellia, burdock root, dandelion, red clover, calendula, wintergreen oil, rosemary, cayenne, ginger, ginkgo, kava kava, licorice root, milk thistle, pau d'arco, skullcap and valerian root. Some of these herbs are taken orally and some are applied topically to help treat your ailment.
A Popular Herb
Wintergreen, or Gaultheria procumbens, is a popular herb for treating fibromyalgia. Balch states that wintergreen, when applied topically, helps relieve inflammation and pain, and stimulates circulation. Wintergreen has been used to treat arthritis, headache, toothache, muscle pain and rheumatic problems. Wintergreen contains several important phytochemicals, including tannin, salicylate and vanillic acid. The leaves, roots and stems of Gaultheria are used in herbal preparations. Wintergreen essential oil is derived from the leaves of the plant.
Cautions
Herbs, although largely safe and effective, should be used with caution when treating your fibromyalgia. Before using herbs to treat your condition, visit a health care professional who has advanced training in herbal medicine so that you may better understand the health risks and benefits of herbal medicines. Certain herbs may not be appropriate for you if you are pregnant, have allergies or have another medical condition. Herbs may also interact with your prescription medications, causing unwanted side effects.
References
- Family Doctor: Fibromyalgia
- MayoClinic.com: Fibromyalgia
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
