Herbal Formulas for Fibromyalgia

According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, fibromyalgia is one of the most common chronic pain disorders. The most common symptoms are chronic pain and fatigue, but there are literally dozens of symptoms that may be experienced. The cause is unknown, there is no cure, and only one drug is designed specifically for treatment of fibromyalgia. Outside of traditional medicine, sufferers may find alternative or herbal treatments useful for the most common symptoms.

Pain

• Ginger is often used in folk medicine to treat nausea, but it is also useful for pain relief. AyuervedicCure.com cites a 1992 Danish study of 56 patients suffering from musculoskeletal pain from arthritis. The test subjects that took powdered ginger reported varying degrees of relief with no side effects. For fibromyalgia, take 1000 to 2000 mg of powdered gingerroot in capsules daily. As an alternative, steep a teaspoon of grated ginger in a cup of hot water for approximately 10 minutes to make ginger tea. Sweeten with honey, if desired.

  Turmeric is another spice that is useful in herbal treatments. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is an anti-inflammatory and may be useful in pain relief. Take 400 to 600 mg three times a day, either with or without food. If you don't experience relief within 10 days, discontinue use. Curcumin is not recommended for people with digestive problems.

Depression

• Up to 50 percent of fibromyalgia sufferers also suffer from depression. For mild depression, St. John's wort may be effective, and with fewer side effects than traditional medicines. St. John's wort should not be taken with prescribed antidepressants or without a doctor's supervision.

  Aromatherapy may also help relieve fibromyalgia symptoms, and it can safely be combined with traditional medicines. Lavender essential oil is used for nervous system disorders, while sandalwood and ylang-ylang have relaxing properties.

Sleep Disorders

• Many fibromyalgia patients have problems sleeping, which only compound the fatigue and pain that are hallmarks of the disease. Valerian root is a traditional folk remedy, either taken as a tea 30 minutes before bedtime or as a powder in capsule form, 150 to 300 mg. Valerian root should not be taken if you're using sleep aids or mood-regulating medications like diazepam or amitriptyline.

  Chamomile is a calming herb that may relax you and help you sleep. To take as a tea, steep 1 tsp. of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of boiling water for several minutes. Serve with honey and lemon juice.

Herbal Treatments

• Herbal treatments may be useful for treating symptoms, but they tend to work more slowly than traditional medicines. It may take a month or more for results to be felt. And while herbs are not classified as drugs, they should be treated with the same care. They can interact with prescription medications and may have negative side effects. Always consult with a doctor before beginning any herbal treatment.