Herbs That Help Back Pain
Back pain is a common ailment yet difficult to diagnose. The Mayo Clinic states that four out of every five people in the United States will experience low back pain at least once during their lives. A number of herbal treatments may provide relief.
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Chamomile
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Chamomile is often used to treat back pain because it reduces inflammation and muscle spasms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, test tube studies have shown that chamomile has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
Feverfew
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Feverfew contains parthenolide, an active compound that helps alleviate muscle spasms. This compound also makes feverfew a wonderful remedy for migraines, and it can be used to treat fever.
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Burdock
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Burdock is commonly used to purify the blood and treat skin disorders such as eczema. It is also used to treat back pain because it is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that while it has been used for centuries, very few scientific studies have examined burdock's effects.
Devil's Claw
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Devil's claw is used to treat pain, complications in pregnancy and skin sores. Devil's claw contains iridoid glycosides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory effects. Harpagoside, one of the many iridoids contained in the herb, is highly concentrated in the root of the plant, and is known to have significant pain-relieving effects.
Willow Bark
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According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, willow bark contains salicin, the phytotherapeutic precursor of aspirin. Willow bark is used to treat fever, headaches, inflammation and influenza. Willow bark should be avoided by those who have adverse reactions to aspirin.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons/Tweeber
