Herbs for Back Pain

Using herbs for back pain is a holistic treatment option that might be a good addition to a back pain relief program. Herbs consist of all natural plant materials or botanical extracts. These plants are grown specifically to be used as part of a back pain diet or even cultivated for inclusion in a back pain drug. Herbal remedies have been around for thousands of years and are one of the oldest medical treatments used by early man.

Herbs for Back Pain

Each medical herb has different symptom relieving qualities. These plant characteristics are similar to many prescription drugs, but usually less effective and non habit forming. Some of the qualities contained in back pain herbs are:

* Antispasmodic * Sedative * Muscle Relaxant * Pain relief * Anti-inflammatory

Forms of Herbs for Back Pain

Herbs may be home grown or purchased. Whole herbs are always excellent, since they are fresh and can be integrated directly into the diet. Herbal essences can also be purchased in liquid, pill or powder form. Some herbal nutritional supplements are not as effective as fresh botanicals, since time often reduces the efficiency of many herbal ingredients. Other supplements are concentrated and can actually be more effective than fresh herbs. These supplements can be added to whole food, made into a beverage or swallowed in pill form. Other herbs are used topically, as a cream, paste or liniment.

Examples of Herbs for Back Pain

The following are common herbs used to treat back pain:

* Saw Palmetto - anti-inflammatory
* Chamomile - relaxes muscles
* Feverfew - pain relief
* Burdock - pain relief
*Yarrow- strengthens muscles
* Stinging Nettle - pain relief
* Cayenne Pepper - topical pain relief
* Willow Bark - pain relief
* Rosemary - anti-inflammatory
* Devil�s Claw - pain relief, anti-arthritic
* Angelica - pain relief, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic
* Mustard Seed Extract - topical pain relief
* Ginkgo Biloba leaves - increases circulation
* Bromelain - anti-inflammatory
* Valeria - anti-inflammatory
* Cat�s Claw - anti-inflammatory
* Licorice - anti-inflammatory
* Horsetail - speeds healing, pain relief
* Cramp Bark - antispasmodic
* Black Haw - antispasmodic
* Ginger - pain relief
* Grape seed extract - anti-inflammatory , increases circulation
* Any Mint Green (Peppermint, Spearmint) - topical pain relief
* Coriander - topical pain relief
* Bilberry - increases circulation
* Celery Seed - muscle relaxant

* Kava Root - pain relief, anesthetic

Recommendation on Herbs for Back Pain

Herbs are all natural, but they may still be hazardous to your health. Certain substances in herbs can be poisonous if ingested or consumed in large quantities. Herbal ingredients can also have side effects, including possible interaction with pain management drugs. Make sure to consult a doctor before starting any program of using herbs for back pain relief.

Herbal remedies can be a very useful addition to a back pain treatment program. Ingredients in many herbs are beneficial to your general health. Quality herbal supplements are available at most health food stores. Be very careful when ordering herbs from an unknown source. You may not be getting what you asked for and will have no way to be sure of the product quality. Be warned of many �miracle cures� for back pain that come in herbal pill form. If there was a miraculous cure, we would all know about it already�

The bottom line� Make sure to follow the recommended daily consumption guidelines for any herbal supplement. Research the ingredients carefully before starting any herbal therapy program. It might be a good idea to consult with an herbalist to create a program for your particular back pain needs. Bring that program to your doctor to be checked out before starting.

Remember, that many components in powerful prescription drugs are herbal extracts.

If possible, start your own herb garden. It can be done indoors or out. You will be assured of the quality of your herbs and will enjoying growing them yourself. (I can�t help but to recommend gardening as a great activity. I am an AVID gardener !!!)

To learn more about herbal remedies, visit www.herbalremediesinfo.com.

Herbs for Back Pain to Lower Back Pain Home 8/3/06 Revised 7/3/08