If you suffer from fibromyalgia, your body is essentially plagued with a dull, almost chronic form of pain. It can manifest in your muscles and joints, often creating tenderness throughout the body. The condition includes frequent episodes of great fatigue or exhaustion as well as periodic sleep disruptions and even depression. With fibromyalgia, treatment usually involves a combination of prescription and nonprescription medications, according to the Mayo Clinic, that may be accompanied by some physical and behavioral therapy. But there's also some belief that herbal treatments may help to improve symptoms of this chronic condition.
Capsaicin Creams
One of the more common herbal treatments for fibromyalgia is capsaicin cream. This topical lotion contains an alkaloid derived from the extract of either cayenne or chili peppers. When applied to the skin, the cream actually affects the nerve endings, impeding the release of neurotransmitters that can signal pain to the brain. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), this may help to reduce the symptoms of the condition. But with this topical lotion, regular use is often necessary to be effective, UMMC says, so apply daily for best results.
Green Tea
Another herbal treatment said to help with fibromyalgia is green tea. Extracts of this herb should be taken in doses between 250 and 500 milligrams (mg) each day, according to the UMMC. The antioxidants found in green tea extracts may boost your body's immune response and thereby reduce symptoms of the condition.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw may also help to reduce symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. The inner bark of this vine is believed to reduce inflammation, UMMC says, which can relieve the pain and discomfort often felt with this chronic condition. And much like green tea, it may also boost the immune system, further helping with relief. Standard dosing is 60 mg a day, broken up into to three separate doses.
St. John's Wort
For some people dealing with fibromyalgia, you may find an improvement in your condition from St. John's wort, especially when the condition results in depression, the Fibromyalgia Symptoms website reports. This herbal remedy is said to improve your mood by hampering the neurotransmitters associated with mental health disorders. St. John's wort is not considered a pain reliever.
Ginseng
Though this herbal supplement doesn't necessarily treat fibromyalgia directly, ginseng has been recommended to keep you alert during the day so you may better rest at night, according to the Fibromyalgia Symptoms website. A common problem for people suffering from this chronic condition is sleep disruption. The idea behind ginseng's use is that sustained alertness during the day may help you sleep at night, thereby relieving any fatigue and exhaustion.
Other Herbal Anti-Inflammatory Supplements
According to UMMC, there are other herbal supplements that may act as anti-inflammatories in your system, which could reduce the pain and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia. Some of the more common are bromelain and turmeric. Daily doses of 40 and 300 mg three times a day, respectively, is recommended to improve your condition.
