|
|
|
|
|
Musculoskeletal System Helpers Here are some herbal remedies that have been used as Musculoskeletal helpers throughout history. Scroll down to find your ailment. Click on 'Fact Sheet' for more information. Arthritis Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) Part used: Root History: Native American folk medicine Science: Contains several anti-inflammatory compounds Practitioners opinion: Must be used long term Directions: Tincture (1:10, 60% alcohol): 2.5ml two times daily In Osteoarthritis (OA), the joints have been worn away due to over use. In the old medical books they referred to this condition as "scrub women’s knee". In Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the immune system attacks the joints. In both conditions, Black Cohosh makes a difference. It lessens the pain experienced and reduces inflammation surrounding the joints. It needs to be used for three months before one decides whether it is working or not. Cramp Medicine Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) Part used: Bark History: European folk medicine used to treat cramps Science: Contains valerianic acid, a proven spasmolytic Practitioners opinion: Works immediately Directions: Tablets: 2-200mg tablets 3 times daily Tincture (1:5, 25% alcohol): 2.5 ml three times daily The common name of this plant speaks volumes – Cramp Bark. There are two instances in which this plant is recommended. The first is when you have injured yourself, over done it moving a couch or working in the yard, and you find your muscles in one big knot. The second instance deals with stress. Some people, when under stress, will develop neck, back or some other cramp and Cramp Bark can relieve these. Emergency Application Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) Part used: Bark History: Used by Native Americans to treat sore muscles and joints Science: Contains tannins that act as anti-inflammatory agents Practitioners opinion: The most effective topical application for sore muscles and joints Directions: Cream: Apply three times daily to affected area Spray (1:5, 25% alcohol): Apply three times daily to affected area The Native Americans lived a physical life and as could be expected, injuries occurred. When accidents happened, they applied a Witch Hazel bark and leaf poultice to the afflicted part and swelling and pain rapidly resolved. More commonly known as a hemorrhoid treatment, Witch Hazel can be used with chronically inflamed joints and a twisted ankle with equal success. |
