Fibromyalgia

 

Similar to chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia involves bodily aches and pains with fatigue as a secondary symptom accompanied by insomnia and depression.  The cause is unknown but stress may be a factor.  Exercise is very important in reducing the symptoms.  Individuals with the disease often have low serotonin levels.  Herbs that are beneficial for chronic fatigue syndrome may also help fibromyalgia.

 

Nutrients

Magnesium -300 to 600 mg citrate or aspartame and malic acid 1200 to 2400 mg taken together may lessen muscle pain.

Vitamin E - 100 to 300 IU with mixed tocopherols, can reduce symptoms.

SAMe - 800 mg, reduces pain and depression.

5-HTP- 50 to 100 mg three times daily, from the plant Griffonia simplicifoli, increases synthesis of serotonin, decreases pain, improves sleep quality; can be combined with magnesium and 300 mg St. John's wort for maximum effectiveness.

 

Foods

Fresh fruits, Fresh vegetables, Whole grains, fatty fish, Salmon, Albacore tuna, Sardines, Herring, Mackerel, Nuts, Seeds, Extra virgin olive oil, Ginger, Turmeric

 

Herbal therapy

Licorice root - 2g three times daily for 8 weeks.

Ginseng - 1 to 2 g, take following time span of licorice root.

Black cohosh - has anti-inflammatory properties.

 

Homeopathy - take remedy according to symptoms:

Arnica montana, Bryonia, Calcarea carbonica, Causticum, Cimicifuga, Kalmia latifolia, Ranunculus bulbosus, Rhus toxicodendron, Ruta graveolens

 

Aromatherapy

Camphor = massage, has a warming effect and promotes healing.

 

Ayurvedic medicine

Boswellia - two capsules twice daily, has anti-inflammatory properties.

 

Chinese medicine

Acupuncture - very effective in relieving pain and other symptoms.

 

Chiropractic

Spinal manipulation - helpful for some individuals.

 

Bodywork

Massage- stimulates circulation and easing pain in stiff areas.

Deep tissue manipulation, Movement therapies, Polarity therapy

 

Mindbody therapy

Meditation - reduces stress.

Yoga - stretching asanas relaxes muscles and relieves symptoms

 

Except from “Nutrition Almanac” by Lavon J. Dunne pages 86-87