Herbs for Fibromyalgia Pain

You have Fibromyalgia; you ache all over and you are constantly feeling fatigued. Perhaps you are already maintaining good sleep hygiene and going to water exercise classes on a regular basis, but you still hurt. You may want to consider supplementing your diet with herbs to help naturally reduce Fibromyalgia pain. Several herbs have been found to be effective in relieving specific Fibromyalgia symptoms, which I will discuss below.

Chamomile

First, chamomile is commonly known for its calming properties. Chamomile can help you sleep and relax. As I discussed in an earlier post, getting quality sleep is essential to reducing Fibromyalgia pain naturally. Additionally, stress typically makes one with Fibromyalgia hurt more, so staying relaxed is also a good way to relieve Fibromyalgia pain. Chamomile also helps relieve menstrual cramps, and it may give the immune system a boost.

Cayenne

Cayenne in the form of an ointment or a salve is used for muscle pain. Cayenne is also useful for relieving tension headaches and migraines.

Ginseng

Ginseng helps relieve stress and boosts energy. This may be especially good for individuals suffering from Fibromyalgia, as fatigue is a common and sometimes debilitating symptom of the condition. Ginseng is also believed to improve memory, which may help with the symptom of “fibro fog.”

Lavender

Lavender is often used as a scent for aromatherapy. Lavender can relieve depression and insomnia, both of which are relatively common for individuals who suffer with Fibromyalgia. Relieving depression may also help reduce pain.

Pairing lavender and vanilla can help you sleep more deeply, which is essential for Fibromyalgia.

Passionflower

Passionflower also indirectly helps the symptoms of Fibromyalgia by reducing anxiety, helping one relax, and aiding you get to sleep. As I already mentioned, getting good sleep helps reduce Fibromyalgia pain. Reducing stress and anxiety will also reduce pain.

Additionally, taking passionflower, valerian, and chamomile together will help improve sleep more than taking valerian or chamomile alone.

St. John’s Wart

If you have Fibromyalgia and suffer from mild depression, St. John’s Wart may help lift your spirits and reduce depression, which in turn reduces Fibromyalgia pain. You should not take St. John’s Wart with any other anti-depressant medication as interactions may occur. You should also be aware that there is an increased risk of damage to your skin with exposure to the sun, so be sure to use plenty of sun block when you are taking this herb.

It is important to note that the American Food and Drug Administration does not regulate herbs. It is always best to be under a doctor’s care and to get his or her professional opinion about the use of herbs for pain, especially if you are taking any other supplements, medications, or herbs.

Source: Fibromyalgia Hope