Muscle pain may be localized or diffuse and can occur anywhere throughout your body. It may be short-lived or long term. Muscle pain, also known as myalgia, may occur in conjunction with muscle inflammation, or myositis. Muscle pain may be associated with numerous types of disorders. Many herbal remedies have been used to treat muscle pain, although you should seek approval from your health care provider before using herbs.
Muscle Pain
Muscle pain often occurs in conjunction with other injuries, such as injuries to your tendons, ligaments and fascia -- the thin covering that envelops your muscles and other tissues in your body. Muscle aches and pains are a common health complaint and may involve one or multiple muscles. Some muscle pain is caused by myofascial trigger points, or tight and tender areas within your muscles. Muscle pain may also be caused by overly vigorous physical activity or certain chronic medical conditions.
Herbal Relief
Many herbal remedies may help relieve muscle pain. According to nutrition researcher and clinical nutrition consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," herbs that improve your circulation are particularly helpful in healing your injured or sore muscles. Examples of these herbs include bayberry, blessed thistle, cayenne, dong quai, echinacea, elderflower, elderberry, garlic, ginkgo and saffron. Other helpful herbs in relieving muscle pain include meadowsweet, valerian, skullcap and lobelia, which is applied externally.
Highlighted Herb
Valerian is an often-used herb to help relieve muscle pain. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that valerian herbal supplements are made from the roots, rhizomes and stolons of the valerian plant. Valerian, a perennial plant indigenous to Asia and Europe, has been used to improve blood flow throughout the body and treat muscle spasms, pain and nervousness. This herbal remedy may also effectively treat insomnia, anxiety, fatigue, stress and cramps.
Warning
In most cases, muscle pain occurs following a traumatic or overuse injury. However, muscle pain may arise suddenly and have no apparent cause. Muscle pain may be caused by certain medical conditions that require specialized treatment. Most muscle pain responds to conservative treatment methods, including herbs, physical therapy and other noninvasive treatment strategies. Before using herbal medicines to help relieve your muscle pain, speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of herbal therapies.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Muscle Pain
- MedlinePlus: Muscle Aches
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Valerian
