Natural Remedies for Back Pain

What do you do when your back aches, but you want to stay safe and natural when it comes to taking something for some real relief? While it is so true that most back problems require a specialist's attention and a lot of rest, herbs can come into play to relieve much of the overall pain.

If you are experiencing chronic back pain, it may be your signal to see a doctor. But it you are experiencing minor pain, such as from a certain strenuous activity, then feel free to try these remedies.

One such remedy is Crampbark, especially useful when it comes to your shoulders and upper back areas. Crampbark is a shrub or tree with white flowers and red little fruits or berries. But it is the bark of the tree that is especially vital with powerful constituents. The Native Americans found great use from Crampbark, also called Guelder Rose, especially the Meskwaki. The herb was used frequently for pains and cramps throughout the body - thus the name. The Penobscot used it to treat swollen glands and mumps. The basic activity of the herb is a relaxant - thus, if you have back pain, the irritated and tense muscle can be relieved through use of Crampbark. The intestines and uterus can also find relief with the herb. Most often the herb is taken internally as a tea and sometimes as a tablet, and a lotion can also be used to rub on tense areas.

Another herb to try is Thyme, used in a warm bath to soothe away stressed muscles. Thyme, when used for such purposes, is typically only used externally and applied to the skin. When taken internally, it is used mostly just for infections and asthma. For your bath, however, make an infusion of the herb and strain it into your bath under running water.

White Willow can be taken internally especially if you are experiencing inflammation in your joints. White Willow was the original Aspirin, and is perhaps a safer form of Aspirin - less damaging to the stomach. Be sure to ask your nutritionist about the best way to use White Willow.

Some other herbs include Prickly Ash, which is a warming and relaxing herb when you rub it into the sore area; and Lavender and St. John's Wort are great to use externally on the skin especially if the area in pain is tense. Perhaps instead of Crampbark, try Devil's Claw - an anti-inflammatory just like Crampbark. And if you experience sleepless nights due to your backpain then consider using Passionflower, an herb that encourages sleep.

Yes, there are alternative ways to care for your back pain. And as always, they are right at our feet you could say!