How to Soothe Fibromyalgia Flares with Ginger

Fibromyalgia (FM or FMS) is a disorder that causes widespread pain, among many other symptoms. For those who live with it, a flare-up can be a mild annoyance or completely debilitating. Medications offer some relief, but many people with FM prefer natural remedies, including medicinal herbs like ginger. A native to India and China, ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been used for generations as a digestive aid, and a 2005 study confirmed what pregnant women already know—ginger can calm the waves of morning sickness. But the root of the ginger plant, which contains a natural anti-inflammatory, can also soothe the muscle pain of a fibromyalgia flare.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh ginger root, preferably organic
• Vegetable peeler
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Access to a stove
• Small pot with a tightly fitting cover
• 2-3 cups of water, preferably filtered
• Small metal strainer
• Mug
• Washcloth

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Instructions

Steps

• 1

  Using a vegetable peeler, peel about a half-inch of the ginger root.

• 2

  Slice off a peeled section of ginger root and mince.

• 3

  Put water and minced ginger into a pot.

• 4

  Bring to a boil, then lower the heat until the water is gently simmering. Cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.

• 5

  Strain the ginger brew into a mug and sip slowly.