7 Natural Remedies for Fibromyalgia: Relieve Pain and Improve Quality of Life

Key Points

• Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, several remedies can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Medications for treating fibromyalgia (e.g., corticosteroids, antidepressants, SSRIs) are effective. However, they can also cause side effects.
• Natural pain relief for fibromyalgia includes herbal remedies and lifestyle and dietary changes. They provide a holistic way to treat the condition and can help you manage painful symptoms.
• Medical cannabis has been shown to be effective in treating fibromyalgia. Research shows that THC and CBD can help reduce pain, inflammation, anxiety and insomnia caused by the condition.
• A combination of prescription medication and natural therapies is often the best approach to treating fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread muscle pain, fatigue and other symptoms. It affects up to 2.5 million people in the UK, with the majority of those affected being women.

The condition is characterised by widespread pain at “tender points” throughout the body. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Fibromyalgia can also cause fatigue, sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia) and cognitive difficulties (poor concentration, memory loss and confusion).

There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but there are many remedies to manage symptoms. Prescription medications include antidepressants, pain relievers and sleep aids. While these medications may effectively treat fibromyalgia symptoms, they can also cause side effects such as headaches, upset stomach or dizziness.

Many find natural remedies to be a safer way to manage symptoms. These fibromyalgia home remedies may also be used with prescription medications to provide relief and improve quality of life. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the most effective natural treatments for fibromyalgia, including diet changes and lifestyle adjustments.

Fibromyalgia can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are many ways to manage the symptoms. Medical cannabis is one of the most effective fibromyalgia treatments, and patients are often able to reduce their reliance on prescription medications.

At Lyphe, we’ve helped patients find relief from fibromyalgia and other pain conditions. To learn more about medical cannabis for fibromyalgia or to get a recommendation for your symptoms, book a call today!

1. Medical Cannabis

Various preclinical and clinical studies support the use of medical cannabis as a natural treatment option for numerous pain conditions, including fibromyalgia. Cannabis not only targets pain symptoms but also improves sleep and reduces anxiety in patients.

A 2021 review published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine suggests that medical cannabis may benefit fibromyalgia patients. Some attribute this to the effects of cannabis’ anti-inflammatory properties, while others argue that the cannabinoids have a natural analgesic (pain-relieving) property.

An advantage of medical cannabis over other natural ways to treat fibromyalgia is its ability to address comorbid conditions. For example, cannabis may help reduce the symptoms of insomnia and depression, which are common in fibromyalgia patients.

A medical cannabis treatment plan involves tackling all bases so that fibromyalgia patients enjoy an improved quality of life. In a 2022 cohort study published in Pain Practice, female fibromyalgia patients reported a beneficial effect on pain, sleep, and psychological and physical issues.

Another advantage of medical cannabis is that it may reduce patients’ dependence on medication that could be addictive. A 2016 survey found that medical cannabis use led to a 64% decrease in opioid use among the study’s fibromyalgia patients.

Despite the effectiveness of medical cannabis in treating fibromyalgia, some patients have difficulty finding a trained physician who can prescribe it. Buying from underground or illicit sources also poses a risk because patients may not know what they are getting or whether it is contaminated with other substances.

At Lyphe, our mission is to help patients find relief from their symptoms and improve the quality of their lives. Our online platform provides a safe, secure and convenient way for patients to access medical cannabis prescriptions from licensed physicians. Our licensed physicians are experienced in treating fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Book an appointment with one of our medical cannabis experts today!

2. Vitamins and Supplements

Vitamins and supplements have been shown to help alleviate the many symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. The important thing to remember when using supplements as natural cures for fibromyalgia is consistency. Many take a supplement one time and stop because the effects are not instant.

Instead, vitamins and supplements work synergistically with the body. When you take them consistently, they build up in your system and work as a natural remedy for fibromyalgia.

Some of the best vitamins and supplements for fibromyalgia include the following:

• Magnesium has been found to be effective in relieving some of the more common fibromyalgia symptoms, such as muscle pain, fatigue, cramps, high blood pressure and appetite loss. Magnesium can be particularly effective in helping with sleep as it has calming effects on nerves and muscles. Additionally, chemical imbalances that occur with fibromyalgia tend to be connected with magnesium-related processes.
• Malic acid may help reduce pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. It supports energy production and carries out reactions in the body, which can help improve muscle performance and mental focus. Magnesium and malic acid supplements have also been studied as a natural treatment for fibromyalgia.
• 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is thought to help with fibromyalgia by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Low levels of serotonin are associated with fibromyalgia pain. Studies show that effective dosages range from 200 to 1,000 mg of 5-HTP daily.
• SAM-e (s-adenosylmethionine) is a compound found naturally in the body that helps produce and regulate hormones and maintain cell membranes. One double-blind clinical evaluation found that taking 800 mg of SAM-e orally daily for six weeks was effective in treating primary fibromyalgia.
• Omega-3 fatty acids refer to a group of fatty acids found in fish, nuts and seeds. They are thought to help reduce inflammation associated with fibromyalgia. Additionally, a 2022 study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity suggests that omega-3 fatty acids have antioxidative effects that could be beneficial in fibromyalgia cases.
• Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles, which can benefit people with fibromyalgia. Studies have suggested that melatonin supplements may be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia, as people with this condition have lower night-time levels of melatonin. In addition, a double-blind study has suggested that high doses of melatonin taken regularly for six weeks likely reduce fibromyalgia pain.
• Co-enzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant that has been found to be lower in people with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Studies have shown that taking 300 mg of CoQ10 daily for 40 days can significantly ease fatigue, morning tiredness and pain.

3. Herbal Remedies for Fibromyalgia

Some herbal remedies have been found to be effective in treating fibromyalgia. Although they’re generally less effective than drugs, they’re still worth trying. They can be used as adjunct therapy with medication.

Here are some of the recommended herbal treatments for fibromyalgia:

• Turmeric is a root that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It contains curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. A herbal supplement is the best way to take turmeric for pain conditions.
• Ginger root contains active compounds called gingerols and shogaols that have analgesic properties. These compounds can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Ginseng contains active compounds called ginsenosides, which have been shown to have analgesic properties. One 2013 double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found ginseng extract reduced the number of tender points and improved patients’ quality of life.
• Willow Bark contains salicin, which converts into salicylic acid once ingested. This compound works similarly to aspirin by reducing inflammation throughout the body.

4. Dietary Changes for Fibromyalgia

Diet can be a powerful tool for managing fibromyalgia symptoms for some people. Dietary changes can help manage pain, improve sleep and even reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Some dietary changes for fibromyalgia include:

• Many people with fibromyalgia find that eating a low-fat diet is beneficial. This type of diet is rich in fibre, vitamins A and C, omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), magnesium and potassium.
• A gluten-free diet is a healthy way to eliminate many common food triggers for fibromyalgia. Such a diet excludes grains such as wheat, barley and rye that contain gluten. Gluten can cause inflammation in your body when you eat it, making symptoms worse for people with fibromyalgia.
• An anti-inflammatory diet includes lots of fruits and vegetables; lean protein sources like chicken or fish; nuts and seeds; healthy fats like olive oil or avocado; whole grains like brown rice instead of white rice (which has been stripped of its fibre); low-fat dairy products such as skimmed milk instead of full-fat versions.

5. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help reduce the effects of fibromyalgia on the body. This natural treatment for fibromyalgia may involve the following:

• Tissue massages
• Low-impact aerobic conditioning
• Pain-relief exercises
• Stretching
• Strengthening exercises
• Water-based exercises.

Physical therapy can also help reduce pain, fatigue, deconditioning, muscle weakness and sleep disturbances associated with the condition. Additionally, educating patients about the pathophysiology and neuroscience behind the condition can be effective in reducing pain symptoms.

6. Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help people with fibromyalgia in a variety of ways. Exercise can help maintain bone mass, improve balance, reduce stress and increase strength. It can also help control body weight, which is important for reducing fibromyalgia symptoms.

Additionally, aerobic exercise, stretching and strength training can help reduce pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. However, remember that exercise can trigger a fibromyalgia flare-up, so be sure to talk with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

For starters, it’s best to avoid exercises that cause pain or aggravate fibromyalgia symptoms. For example, people with fibromyalgia should not do regular weightlifting or high-impact aerobic workouts. Instead, choose low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming and cycling.

7. Essential Oils for Fibromyalgia

Essential oils have been found to be beneficial in helping to reduce the pain, inflammation and spasms associated with fibromyalgia. These oils can be used in a relaxing bath or applied topically to the affected areas to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Some of the best essential oils for fibromyalgia include:

• Lavender – This oil has a calming, relaxing effect on the body. It also helps to reduce inflammation, which may relieve pain and stiffness in people with fibromyalgia.
• Roman chamomile – Similar to lavender, this essential oil is known for its soothing properties. In fact, it’s often used as an alternative treatment for insomnia and anxiety disorders that may affect people with fibromyalgia.
• Peppermint – Also known as menthol, peppermint oil is cooling and refreshing. It may also help provide some relief during hot flashes.

Conclusion – Managing Fibromyalgia Pain Naturally

In conclusion, fibromyalgia is a challenging condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While there may not be a cure for this condition, there are several natural ways to help manage the symptoms and improve overall well-being.

From medical cannabis to exercise to practising stress-reducing techniques, there are many strategies to help manage fibromyalgia. Additionally, supplements like magnesium, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids can provide relief from inflammation. Essential oils applied topically can be used to ease hot flashes or flare-ups.

These alternative remedies are not meant to substitute prescription medication. However, they can be used in conjunction with traditional treatments. By adopting these natural approaches, individuals with fibromyalgia can take control of their health and improve their quality of life.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with fibromyalgia is unique. If you’re looking for a natural way to deal with fibromyalgia, medical cannabis may be the right choice for you. This natural remedy for fibromyalgia may provide relief from pain and other symptoms associated with the condition, including anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Our medical cannabis experts at Lyphe can help you find the best strains and dosage options for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how medical cannabis can help with fibromyalgia.

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