Herbs and supplements for fibromyalgia

Managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia and related ailments is not easy. Therefore many patients are turning to alternative therapies for the relief of pain and sleep problems. They may use Chinese herbs or over-the-counter supplements such as 5-HTP.

Because so many people -- not just those with fibromyalgia -- are using alternative therapies, since July 2002 food supplements have been harmonised at the European Union level under food law. This includes harmonised labelling standards and specific rules for approved vitamins and minerals in food supplements.

There are more and more guidelines becoming available to help people choose appropriate alternative therapies that may help their symptoms without making them ill.

Are herbs and supplements for fibromyalgia safe and effective?

Some preliminary studies indicate that certain medicinal herbs and natural supplements may help symptoms of fibromyalgia. Other studies of herbs and natural supplements, however, are less positive. If you do choose to take an alternative approach to treating fibromyalgia, it is important to learn as much as you can about the therapies you consider. The herbs and natural supplements described in this article are just a few of the alternative therapies that some studies have shown may have an impact on fibromyalgia.

How does 5-HTP help fibromyalgia pain?

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a building block of serotonin. Serotonin is a powerful brain chemical, which plays a significant role in fibromyalgia pain. Serotonin levels are also associated with depression and sleep.

For those with fibromyalgia, 5-HTP may help to increase deep sleep and reduce pain. In one study, published in the Alternative Medicine Review, researchers reported that supplementation with 5-HTP may improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and fibromyalgia pain. However, there are some contradictory studies that show no benefit with 5-HTP.  More research is clearly needed.

Can melatonin help relieve sleep problems associated with fibromyalgia?

Melatonin is a natural hormone that is available on prescription for the short-term treatment of primary insomnia in people aged 55 and over.  Some preliminary findings show that melatonin may be effective in treating fibromyalgia pain. Most patients with fibromyalgia have sleep problems and fatigue, and it is thought that melatonin may help relieve these symptoms. Some doctors may be prepared to prescribe it (outside its normal licensed use) for fibromyalgia.

Melatonin is generally regarded as safe with few to no side-effects. Because of the risk of daytime drowsiness, however, anyone taking melatonin should exercise caution when driving until they know how it affects them.

Is St John's Wort a helpful fibromyalgia herb?

There is no specific evidence that St John's Wort is helpful in treating fibromyalgia. This herb is registered for sale in the UK as a traditional herbal remedy for the relief of the symptoms of slightly low mood and mild anxiety, but it’s use is not based on clinical trials. It is also used by some to try to relieve the symptoms of menopause, including hot flushes, night sweats, slightly low mood and anxiety as well as,depression – which is commonly associated with fibromyalgia.