Some pain may be manageable using herbal solutions

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Monday, Oct 20, 2008

Posted on Mon, Oct. 20, 2008

Some pain may be manageable using herbal solutionshttp://www.star-telegram.com/health/v-print/story/981756.html

By JORDAN LITERodale Press

From herbs that attack inflammation to techniques that leverage the brain’s remarkable healing powers, nature offers many treatments for conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and even muscle strains. Here are eight natural remedies that may enhance or replace conventional antidotes. Capsaicin: For arthritis, shingles or neuropathy

What the science says: An active component of chile pepper, capsaicin temporarily desensitizes pain-prone skin nerve receptors called C-fibers. Soreness is diminished for three to five weeks while they regain sensation.

How to try it: Capsaicin ointments and creams are sold in pharmacies and health stores. For arthritis or neuropathy, try 0.025 percent or 0.075 percent capsaicin cream one to four times daily. Best results can take up to two weeks.

InflaThera or Zyflamend: For arthritis

What the science says: Both supplement brands contain ginger, turmeric and holy basil, all of which have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric (a curry ingredient) may be the best: A component of it, curcumin, eases inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, according to the Methodist Research Institute in Indianapolis.

How to try it: ProThera, InflaThera’s maker, will only sell to healthcare professionals, so your doctor has to order it for you. That said, it’s reportedly stronger (and slightly cheaper) than Zyflamend. InflaThera’s suggested dosage is twice daily with food. For the more readily accessible Zyflamend, take one capsule two or three times daily.

Arnica: For acute injury or post-surgery swelling

What the science says: This herb comes from a European flower. Although its healing mechanism is still unknown, it does have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

How to try it: Use homeopathic arnica along with icing, herbs or conventional pain meds, suggests Jane Guiltinan, immediate past president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Rub arnica ointment on bruises or strained muscles, or take it in the form of three lactose pellets under the tongue up to six times a day.

Aquamin: For osteoarthritis

What the science says: This red seaweed supplement is rich in calcium and magnesium. A preliminary clinical study showed that the ingredients may reduce joint inflammation or even help build bone.

How to try it: The manufacturer recommends 2,400 milligrams a day (two capsules) of Aquamin in tablet form, sold domestically in products such as Cal-Sea-Um.

SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine): For osteoarthritis

What the science says: SAM-e is made from a naturally occurring amino acid and sold as capsules. Doctors aren’t sure why it tamps down pain, but it reduces inflammation and may increase the feel-good brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine.

How to try it: Costco and CVS both carry it; a month’s supply costs $30 to $60. Recommendations are 400 to 1,600 milligrams daily, often with turmeric or fish oil. SAM-e can interact with other meds, especially MAO-inhibitor antidepressants, so it’s vital to talk with your doctor before taking it.

Fish oil: For joint pain from arthritis or autoimmune disorders

What the science says: Digested fish oil breaks down into hormonelike chemicals called prostaglandins, which reduce inflammation.

How to try it: Taking 1,000 milligrams is proven to help your heart, but you should up the dose for pain. For osteoarthritis, try 2,000 to 4,000 milligrams daily; for rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases associated with joint pain (such as lupus), consider a much higher dose upward of 8,000 milligrams daily, but ask your doctor about such a large amount first.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): For osteoarthritis

What the science says: MSM is derived from sulfur and may prevent joint and cartilage degeneration, say scientists at the University of California, San Diego.

How to try it: Start with 1.5 to 3 grams once daily and increase to 3 grams twice daily for more severe pain.

Counting out loud: For brief 'needle stick’ pain

What the science says: Patients who counted backward from 100 out loud during an injection experienced and recalled less pain, according to a recent Japanese study. None of the 46 patients who counted complained afterward, and only one of them could remember pain from the injection at all. (Among the 46 who didn’t count, 19 said the injection hurt, and 10 recalled what it felt like.)

Recitation might work by distracting the brain from processing the sensation.