Fibromyalgia is a symptom wherein you feel chronic pain in certain parts of your body; it is a muscular pain especially around the joints. There can also be centralized pain felt in the spinal chord, brain, neck and shoulders etc. People with fibromyalgia generally complain of pain in the joints but it actually is the muscles and the tendons around cause the pain. It can be excruciating sometimes and can be a continuous throbbing pain. People suffering from Fibromyalgia also show symptoms of depression, sleeplessness, irritable bowel syndrome and stress, which are caused due to the pain suffered by them.



Fibromyalgia patients are very sensitive to heat, light and sometimes touch. Their skin feels tender and they may feel the painful parts to be inflamed but in reality there is no swelling. Poor concentration and extreme mood swings are another symptom they might display. Usually Fibromyalgia affects women over 30, but even children and men are sometimes affected. There is no known cure for fibromyalgia, however you can overcome this symptom over a period of time with natural cures like herbs and dietary supplements that help with the condition.

Herbs for Fibromyalgia

Herbs can help alleviate fibromyalgia by reducing tenderness in the bone tissues, improving immune system and thereby reducing the pain. St.John's wort is usually taken to help relax and relieve stress. It acts as a pain reliever for severe pain. Fatigue is a common complaint in all fibromyalgia patients, Siberian ginseng is an energizing herb that can make you feel more active and reduce the tiredness felt by the person. The dosage can be slowly increased as required and you can continue by giving a break every six weeks. Turmeric is another pain killer 400 to 500 mg a day can be quite effective. Calendula in relatively large doses taken orally can reduce and suppress the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.

Garlic is a very effective detoxifier and helps in enhancing the immune system as well. Ginkgo biloba can improve blood circulation thereby improving memory and brain functioning. Devil's claw and willow bark are generally used to treat swellings and reduce inflammation in patients suffering from rheumatism. Ginger is a good alternative for painkillers. Alfalfa is very good for general health as it contains plenty of vitamins and minerals. Eating plenty of green vegetables and having a high fiber diet can help people suffering from Fibromyalgia. A good protein diet is recommended, with plenty of nuts and lean meat such as fish and poultry.

Limit Alcohol and Caffiene

Refrain from alcohol and caffeine as they increase stress and pain as well as disturb your regular sleep patterns. Plenty of water is the best detoxifier as it helps in flushing toxins from your body and fruit juices can give you the energy which is usually lost in patients with Fibromyalgia. Anti oxidants help restoring damaged cells and help in fighting inflammation. A regular dose of multi vitamins can help you fight the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These patients generally avoid exercises as it increases the pain, but a simple exercise regime after consulting a physician is good to keep your bones and muscles flexible and improve your immune system. Walking, swimming and yoga are ideal exercises that can be followed.

Yoga for Fibromyalgia

Yoga is excellent for relieving stress; the stretching exercises will strengthen your muscles and joints. The muscles are well used in certain exercises in yoga which can help patients suffering from fibromyalgia. The breathing exercises can also help reduce fatigue and improve circulation, energizing your body. Muscles are also relaxed and help in the healing process. People following regular exercise regimes tend to suffer less pain and feel more active. Physical therapy can help some of the people having Fibromyalgia symptoms; acupuncture has been proved effective.

Holistic healing has helped some who have the faith and trust to pursue the same. Meditations, reiki and prayers are a great source of comfort and also help relieve stress in Fibromyalgia. Massage therapies can help a great deal in reducing fatigue and improve muscle movement. A good recommended massage by a professional can also improve circulation and restore your immune system. All the above remedies have no side effects and it would help you a great deal to try some of it to help ease your pain, if you are suffering from Fibromyalgia symptoms.

Copyright (c) 2008 Hailey Harris