Self Help For Fibromyalgia: Herbs That Help

Fibromyalgia seems to be a growing problem for many people these days with around 5 million sufferers in the US alone. With no as yet identified cause or cure, self help for fibromyalgia is becoming a very popular topic.

Herbs can be used as a natural fibromyalgia treatment. These substances can relieve symptoms by decreasing inflammation, enhancing the production of necessary hormones, giving a boost to the immune system and easing pain. Below are some of the common herbal treatments – not all have been proven in the treatment of fibromyalgia, but they may offer relief for some.

• St. John's wort is known a natural substitute for prescription antidepressants. This drug positively affects the adrenal gland hormones to aid in managing stress. St. John's wort also influences the nerves and is good for nerve pains. It also fights virus. A dose of 100mg three times a day has shown to improve some fibromyalgia symptoms.

(Caution: Do not take if with prescription antidepressants.)

• Siberian ginseng is an energy boosting herb that can help deal with the fatigue brought about by fibromyalgia. It’s recommended that you select an extraction with 0.8 percent eleutherosides and take 100 –300mg a day. Taking siberian ginseng too close to bedtime can cause insomnia and take care not to exceed the recommended dosage. After six or eight weeks take a one to two week break, after which you may use the herb again for another six to eight weeks.

(Caution: do not take with heart or blood pressure medications)

• Turmeric assists in reduction of inflammation and pain. You can take this in capsule form three times a day, or alternatively try dissolving half a teaspoon of turmeric powder in water.

• Garlic detoxifies and builds the immune system. Consider a daily intake of 5,000 mcg of allicin three a day. Aged garlic like Kyolic is even better.

(Warning: large amounts of garlic can hinder blood clotting abilities).

• Ginkgo biloba enhances circulation of the blood and may improve the memory function of the brain, although this is not proven.

• Devil's claw root is a natural alternative to anti-inflammatory medicines, and can be used to cure rheumatic disorders. It also acts as an effective analgesic.

• Likewise, Willow bark, from which aspirin is derived from, is an anti-inflammatory and serves as an effective pain reliever.

• Licorice root offers similar benefits to cortisone, but without the risk of the artificially produced counterpart.

(Caution: do not use if suffering from high blood pressure)

• Dandelion decreases pain and invigorates the connective tissue. You should try for an intake of 1 tbsp. juice or 1 cup tea two times a day from four to a maximum of six weeks.

• Skullcap and valerian root enhance deep sleep.

• Teas brewed from dandelion, burdock root, and red clover may facilitate treatment for fibromyalgia by purifying the bloodstream and building the immune system. Mixed up or used as herbal teas, you’ll want to try for an intake of 4 to 6 cups every day.

• Local applications of cayenne powder with oil of wintergreen can alleviate muscle pain. Cayenne has capsaicin an ingredient that prevents the release of neurotransmitters responsible for relaying pain signals that communicate pain sensations. For every 1 part cayenne powder, use 3 parts of oil of wintergreen.

• Grape-seed and Pine-bark extracts are natural anti-inflammatory medicines. These alleviate pain. A good intake is 50 milligrams, two or three times a day.

•Ginger is a great substitute to aspirin to alleviate pain. You can take this as a powdered supplement or grate ginger root and take as a tea.

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The list of natural fibromyalgia treatments is growing all the time. The good news for anyone searching for natural treatments for fibromyalgia is that there are many to consider. Self help for fibromyalgia is now more readily available than it ever has been before. However, it is important that you talk with your own doctor before you begin taking any herbal alternatives to try and manage your fibromyalgia symptoms.

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