Natural Medicinal Herbs Article

Fibromyalgia Treatment: Supplements and Herbs for Pain Relief

"What is Inositol? Inositol is a naturally occurring isomer of glucose, found in various forms.  It is a member of the ""B Complex"" group of vitamins, though it is not a vitamin in itself. The most common form of inositol is myo-inositol. The nutrient is a direct precursor of phospholipids, a major component of cellular membranes, which helps to maintain proper transfer of electrical energy and nutrient transfer across the cell membrane. In essence, inositol helps to facilitate healthy cell membranes, which in turn, facilitate nerve impulse in the brain.  Inositol also participates in the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter possessing effects known to be beneficial in battling depression and anxiety. Inositol is said to influence increased serotonin production. This is different than most SSRIs or anti-depressants, which simply protect serotonin from being absorbed and depleted. Inositol, however, should not be stacked with convention SSRIs or anti-depressant medications, as it could potentially result in serotonin poisoning. Inositol is present in a typical North American adult diet, though only in amounts of about 1 gram daily (or less). A single gram represents a fairly small amount of inositol, thus, supplementation is typically necessary to receive therapeutic effects for depression, anxiety, and/or OCD. Inositol can be found as a naturally occurring nutrient in seeds, nuts, citrus fruits, cereals and legumes.  Inositol as a Medication for Depression Many individuals seek the treatment of depression. Natural remedies for depression, including herbs for depression, and, herbs as an anxiety disorder treatment have long been sought. Though not an herb, so to speak, inositol has been reported decreased in those suffering from depression. In a double-blind controlled experiment, participants were given 12 grams of inositol daily for a period of four weeks. At the four week mark, participants who had been administered the inositol treatment had benefited significantly on the Hamilton Depression Scale; especially when compared to those who had been given a placebo. Inositol seems to work for anxiety, panic attacks, and OCD, additionally. In a different study, participants were administered up to 18 grams of inositol daily for a 12 week period. This experiment was a double-blind, controlled, random order crossover study. Significant reductions to OCD severity and anxiety followed the treatment. Notable improvements on the Hamilton Rating scale for Anxiety scores, agoraphobia scores, and Clinical Global Impression Scale scores were seen following the Inositol treatment. Dosage & Side Effects: Inositol for Depression While most studies indicate that 12-18 grams daily is the proper dosage for therapeutic effects, many individuals have reported positive results after using much smaller amounts. These amounts typically ranged from 1-3g daily, taking dosages of 500-1000mg three times daily. Most capsule/table forms of inositol come in 500mg servings; thus, reaching the necessary 1-3 grams is typically not too difficult a feat to achieve (especially when compared to other natural remedies for depression). Most first timers seem to start with a 500mg dose, 3 times daily. Since there is no proof that amounts less than 12 grams/daily are effective, actual dosage amounts and requirements may vary greatly. Be sure to consult a physician before starting an inositol supplementation regimen. Inositol should be taken for a period of 4-6 weeks before positive effects can be expected. This 4-6 week ramp up period has been found not only necessary, but, beneficial in most studies conducted on the nutrient. Again, one should not expect to see any positive effects on depression, anxiety, or OCD until 4-6 weeks after the commencements of inositol supplementation. Furthermore, some mild side effects have been studied and reported with daily inositol supplementation, including gas and diarrhea. Some speculate that inositol side effects may be beneficial, however, and that the regulation of serotonin in the brain can help to improve sleep and reduce insomnia. All in all, inositol might be a very beneficial alternative treatment for depression and anxiety.""Our course of action for Fibromyalgia Treatment is addressing our individual symptoms. There isn't one pill that treats all of our Fibromyalgia symptoms, so we must treat them one at a time. Below are over the counter supplements and herbs that can help relieve the individual symptoms of Fibromyalgia and might help you find some pain relief. While these all are over-the-counter, some of these supplements have side effects and dosage varies depending on the patient. Make sure to read all labels and consult your doctor with any concerns. I've broken the article down into symptom categories. If a supplement is used to treat multiple symptoms, it will be in both categories. Feel free to jump to the symptoms you are experiencing and skip over symptoms you don't. Help Fatigue and Increase Energy with Fibromyalgia: ACES Vitamin: A combination of Vitamins A, C, E and the mineral Selenium. This combination is known to increase energy and reduce fatigue. Super B Complex: Combination of B vitamins usually including: Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Panthothenic Acid (B5), Pyridoxine (B6), Biotin, Folate, Cobalamin (B12) and Inositol. This vitamin is shown to increase energy and reduce fatigue. I could not function without my Super B Complex. Ginseng: Ginseng is a herb known to reduce stress and increase energy. It is also considered an immune system booster and memory enhancer. Magnesium and Malic acid: This is used to boost energy and relieve pain. The two work together and will not have the same results if taken separately. Multi-Vitamin: A multi-vitamin is a good choice for your overall health. I've included it in the first section because it could fit in any category. NADH: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen is an antioxidant. Some Fibromyalgia Patients experience more energy and increased concentration (good-bye Fibro Fog!) when taking this antioxidant. SAM-e: A synthetic form of the amino acid methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that is naturally produced in our bodies. Studies show that SAM-e can reduce pain in our trigger points, reduces fatigue and decrease depression. Reduce the Pain of Fibromyalgia: 5-HTP: This supplement works in a way similar to antidepressants. It increases the synthesis of serotonin in the Central Nervous System. There are a lot of associated side effects with 5-HTP. Definitely talk to you doctor about this one. Cramp Bark: Cramp bark is a plant that the American Indians used to help with menstrual cramps and induce miscarriage. It has been used to relieve muscle cramps as well. For obvious reasons, don't take while pregnant. Magnesium and Malic acid: This is used to boost energy and relieve pain. The two work together and will not have the same results if taken separately. MSM: Methylsulfonylmethane is the supplement form of sulphur. Some Fibromyalgia patients experience pain relief from this supplement. Omega 3: This supplement reduces inflammation. While Fibromyalgia does not created inflammation in our bodies, some Fibromyalgia Patients experience pain relief from this supplements. They are considered extremely healthy to take regardless. SAM-e: A synthetic form of the amino acid methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that is naturally produced in our bodies. Studies show that SAM-e can reduce pain in our trigger points, reduce fatigue and decrease depression. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is the ""sunshine vitamin."" People who don't get enough sunlight can have a vitamin D deficiency which has a direct correlation with chronic pain. A simple blood test by your doctor can test your Vitamin D levels. Digestion Issues Associated with Fibromyalgia Probiotic: Beneficial bacteria. There are a lot of different types of probiotics: acidophilus, lactobacillus and bifidobacterium etc. Probiotics restore the natural balance of already present bacteria in your intestinal tract. I have had great results from probiotics. Tumeric: Tumeric is a spice with the active ingredient curcumin. It stimulates the gallbladder which in turn can improve digestion. (Tumeric is what gives yellow rice its yellow color!) Ginger: Ginger is spicy root that reduces nausea and aids in digestion. It's the common ingredient in Ginger ale. I use Candied Ginger to calm my upset stomach. Depression and Anxiety Connected to Fibromyalgia: Ginseng: Ginseng is known to reduce stress and increase energy. SAM-e: A synthetic form of the amino acid methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that is naturally produced in our bodies. Studies show that SAM-e can reduce pain in our trigger points, reduce fatigue and decrease depression. St. John's Wort: Is a plant that's been used since Ancient Greece for its healing properties. It is known to help lessen depression and restore healthy sleep patterns. Valerian Root: A native plant of Europe and Asia that contains valerenic acid and bornyl. Valerian has a calming effect on our Central Nervous System. It is used for reducing anxiety and improving sleep. Fibro Fog or Lack of Concentration from Fibromyalgia: Super B Complex: Combination of B vitamins usually including: Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Panthothenic Acid (B5), Pyridoxine (B6), Biotin, Folate, Cobalamin (B12) and Inositol. This vitamin is shown to increase energy and reduce fatigue which helps with Fibro Fog. I could not function without my Super B Complex. Ginko: Ginkgo Biloba is an antioxidant that is reported to enhance memory and brainfunction and eliminate Fibromyalgia fibro fob. Ginseng: Ginseng is a herb known to reduce stress and increase energy. It is also considered an immune system booster and memory enhancer. NADH: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen is an antioxidant. Some Fibromyalgia Patients experience more energy and increased concentration (good-bye Fibro Fog!) when taking this antioxidant. Sleep Disturbances Associated with Fibromyalgia: Chamomile: Chamomile is a yellow flower plant that has been used for centuries for its calming effects. A cup of chamomile tea before bed promotes sleep. It can also be taken in pill or drop form. Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the brain that regulates sleep. It maintains our circadian rhythm (our bodies natural clock). People suffering from insomnia might benefit from melatonin. St. John's Wort: Is a plant with that's been used since Ancient Greece for its healing properties. It is known to help lessen depression and restore healthy sleep patterns. Valerian Root: A native plant of Europe and Asia that contains valerenic acid and bornyl. Valerian has a calming effect on our Central Nervous System. It is used for reducing anxiety and improving sleep."