TREATING FIBROMYALGIA WITH NATURAL REMEDIES
As we know, many people with Fibromyalgia aim to relieve the pain associated with the condition with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. These remedies may offer some relief, but are not effective at alleviating any of the other symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia. In these instances many people turn to natural and herbal remedies to help.
Herbal Remedies
Plants have been used for centuries for their medicinal and nutritional benefits. In fact, more than 50 percent of the processed medications available today are derived from plant sources. Herbs are plant parts such as the seeds, leaves, roots and stems that can be used in their natural state to prevent illnesses and promote overall health.
Herbal remedies can help to alleviate some of the symptoms of Fibromyalgia by reducing inflammation, stimulating hormones, providing immune system support and eliminating pain.
Before starting to take herbal remedies it is important that you discuss your options both with a herbalist and your own doctor to ensure no contraindications with any current medication you are taking.
The following herbs can be used for the care and support of Fibromyalgia.
* St. John’s Wort: This natural antidepressant helps to stimulate the adrenal gland hormones to help relieve stress. St. John’s Wort is also an effective anti-viral agent and helps to relieve pain.
* Siberian Ginseng: This energising herb helps to relieve the fatigue associated with Fibromyalgia.
* Turmeric: Turmeric is recommended by herbalists to reduce pain and inflammation.
* Immune System Boosters: Herbs such as cayenne, Echinacea, goldenseal, astralagus, myrrh, grape seed extract, and chaparral help to boost
the immune system and improve the circulation within the body.
* Garlic: Garlic is a potent antioxidant that helps to enhance immune system function. It is also an excellent detoxifier.
* Ginkgo Biloba: This herb works well at improving the circulation and restoring cognitive ability.
* Devil’s Claw Root: Devil’s Claw Root is a natural anti- inflammatory that is used in the treatment of many rheumatic disorders.
* Willow Bark: This anti-inflammatory herb helps to reduce the pain and swelling associated with Fibromyalgia.
* Licorice Root: Licorice root has pain relieving properties similar to cortisone, but without the harmful side effects.
* Dandelion: Dandelion is excellent at reducing pain in the connective tissue.
* Valerian Root: This herb is useful in improving sleep patterns and alleviating the fatigue associated with Fibromyalgia. It can also helps with
depression.
* Pine-bark: This natural anti-inflammatory helps to reduce swelling and ease the pain of Fibromyalgia.
Nutritional Therapy
While there is no direct link between Fibromyalgia and diet, most Fibromyalgia sufferers have found that their symptoms are reduced when they follow a diet that is low in refined sugars and processed foods, and high in fibre and vitamins. Malabsorption of nutrients is common in Fibromyalgia patients. The body needs at least forty different vitamins and minerals on a daily basis. A healthy diet, rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, can significantly help in reducing the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.
For more information please see our article on Diet & FMS.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathy is a system of medicine which is based on treating the individual with highly diluted substances given in mainly tablet form, which triggers the body’s natural system of healing. Based on their experience of the symptoms, a homeopath will match the most appropriate medicine to the patient.
Homeopathy is not something that can be carried out without visiting a qualified practitioner as it is very complex alternative therapy.
The following homeopathic remedies have been found to be useful in the care and treatment of Fibromyalgia.
* Gorse: Gorse helps to ease the depression that is common among Fibromyalgia sufferers.
* Aspen: Aspen works to alleviate stress and anxiety, especially when the exact source of anxiety is unknown. This is helpful for Fibromyalgia
sufferers who also experience a great deal of nervous stress and anxiety.
* Impatiens: this flower helps to resolve the nervousness and tension that can exacerbate the pain and fatigue of Fibromyalgia.