There are many causes of lower back pain, from improper posture or ligament or muscle strain to spine problems. Even simple stress or poor kidney function can cause back pain. But no matter the cause, there are Chinese herbs said to help remedy lower back pain.
For General Pain
Try eucommia for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Also known as du zhong, eucommia is a diminutive tree found across China. It features good diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. The Chongqing Hospital in China conducted a study on the curative attributes of eucommia. Pills made of a combination of eucommia and psoralea were given to 40 people suffering from pains in their low backs. In nearly every case, improvement was noted. Consult with a specialist to see if it can help you, and for proper dosing.
For swelling, try carthamus
More commonly called safflower, carthamus is a bright red flower. For back pain due to swelling of the muscles and/or ligaments, a tincture, tablet or tea of this herb helps reduce the swelling. Take carthamus only under a doctor's or herbalist's direction as they can determine the proper dosage.
For a weak back, try acanthopanax
Acanthopanax is a member of the ginseng family, and grows as both a variety of thorny trees and shrubs. Herbalists use its bark for strengthening bones and tendons. If your back pain is due to weakness of either of these two areas, it's a highly effective treatment. An herbalist will recommend the appropriate dosage based on the severity of your back pain.
Kidneys and Circulation
Given the kidneys' location on either side of the lower back, kidney disease or damage often results in back pain. Chinese herbs that improve kidney function, therefore, can help with lower back pain. For instance, red sage root is known as a "blood vitalizing" plant; so are boswellia (a plant from which frankincense is extracted) and fennel seed. The website agelessherbs.com lists these and other herbs that help improve kidney function.
Reduce Stress
Stress causes a host of physical problems, including back pain. Ginseng or chamomile teas, found on the site herbalremediesinfo.com, are touted as stress relievers. And because chamomile is an anti-inflammatory, it can do double duty when dealing with back troubles.
When to Visit Your Doctor
If your back pain persists or worsens, even with the use of herbs, consult your doctor as a more serious conduction may be the underlying cause.
Tags: back pain, back pain, kidney function, lower back, your back, your back pain