Your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a joint located on both sides of your head, just in front of your ear, where your skull articulates, or connects, with your jaw bone. Dysfunction in or around your TMJ, notes MayoClinic.com, may cause headaches and many other symptoms. TMJ disorders are often chronic conditions. Herbs are frequently prescribed in the treatment of TMJ-related headaches, but you should discuss herb-related issues with your doctor first.
TMJ Dysfunction
In addition to headaches, TMJ dysfunction may cause jaw pain or tenderness, pain around your ear, problems with chewing, TMJ joint locking, uneven bite, and aching facial pain. Possible risk factors associated with TMJ dysfunction, states MayoClinic.com, include congenital deformities of your facial bones; being a woman; being between the ages of 30 and 50; and having certain other medical conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and sleep disorders. TMJ-related headaches may range from mild to severe.
Common Herbs
Several herbs may be helpful in treating TMJ dysfunction and TMJ-related headaches. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition expert Phyllis A. Balch notes that feverfew and ginger may be particularly helpful in treating this condition, as these herbs help treat pain and soreness. Turmeric, boswellia and white willow bark are also commonly used in treating TMJ-related headaches and pain. Some of these herbs may not have been subjected to rigorous scientific testing procedures, and thus their efficacy in treating this condition may be unknown.
An Effective Botanical
Feverfew may be one of the most effective botanical remedies in the treatment of TMJ-related headaches and pain. In his book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," herbal medicine expert Ed Smith reports that feverfew works like aspirin to help reduce pain, treat headaches of all types and reduce the pain associated with toothache. Feverfew has historically been used in treating migraine headaches, arthritis and common cold. Various parts of the plant contain medicinal ingredients and are incorporated into herbal supplements. Talk to your doctor before using feverfew to treat any medical condition.
Additional Information
TMJ dysfunction and pain can be a difficult condition to treat and may take months or even years to resolve. In most cases, a multidisciplinary treatment approach with this condition yields optimal health benefits. Herbs are a largely safe and helpful adjunct treatment for this condition, although they should be combined with manual medicine techniques and other therapies recommended by your doctor. Always ask your doctor about the proper procedures for using herbal remedies.
References
- MayoClinic: TMJ Disorders
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
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