(The Best Years in Life) Fibromyalgia is a chronic and complex condition which is estimated to affect 3 to 6 million people in the United States. Until the late 20th century the disorder was not even recognized. Even today, a person with fibromyalgia may suffer needlessly, finding it hard to get a concrete diagnosis from a physician. Mainstream medicine offers treatments such as antidepressants, painkillers, muscle relaxers and anesthetic injections. However, these treatments are rarely effective. Addressing this disorder naturally, on the other hand, can often bring relief and even remission.

Fibromyalgia is characterized by a variety of symptoms that include pain, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Other symptoms can include irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, TMJ disorders, restless leg syndrome, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, poor concentration, and they may be overly sensitive to odors, noises, bright lights, and touch. Fibromyalgia is often linked with the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and chronic fatigue syndrome. Fibromyalgia is diagnosed by applying pressure to specific tender points throughout the body. These pressure points are found in the neck, shoulders, upper and lower back, upper chest, elbows, hips, and thighs.

Fibromyalgia has been linked to an immune system disorder. Supplements that strengthen and modulate the immune system include:

*Colloidal silver, which strengthens the immune system and has shown to be extremely effective in treating fibromyalgia. Two to four ounces daily should be the initial dose, tapering down to one ounce until improvement is noticed. It is important to note that one should obtain their colloidal silver from a trusted source. Many websites advertising colloidal silver sell, no such thing. There are many inferior products that have added ingredients and large silver particles which are less effective and could even result in argyria. There is no such risk with true colloidal silver.

*An extract made from the oleander plant is a powerful immune modulator which may be effective in relieving or even reversing the condition. Note that raw oleander is quite toxic and one should not experiment willy-nilly with raw oleander, but instead should use a proven supplemental non-toxic form.

*Magnesium, another immune modulator, is necessary for more than 300 biochemical reactions. Additionally, a majority of the population is deficient in this important mineral and magnesium deficiency has been strongly linked to immune disorders.

*Vitamin D3 is also a powerful immune modulator and recent studies have both linked D3 deficiency to immune disorders as well as recommended its use as an immune modulator for immune disorders.

*Black seed oil (Nigella Sativa) is another powerful immune modulator.

*Curcumin, besides also being an immune modulator, relieves inflammation and pain.

*Garlic, astralagus, and echnacea not only strengthen the immune system but also improve circulation.

Capsaicin cream is effective in relieving pain when applied topically on painful areas.

Proteolytic/digestive enzymes help to dissolve fibrin. Take 5 or more two to three times a day on an empty stomach.

Apples and apple juice are good items for people with fibromyalgia to consume. Apples contain malic acid which is not only instrumental in relieving pain, but is also needed in generating cell energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

A deficiency in vitamins D3 and B12 could be a contributing factor in people with fibromyalgia.

Skullcap and Valerian can help restore restful sleep. Please note that these herbs should not be taken along with antidepressants.

Acupuncture, used for 2,500 years by the Chinese, may be instrumental in pain relief. Acupuncture works by balancing the energy pathways (meridians) throughout the body.

Toxins have also been associated with fibromyalgia. Cleansing is an important part of treating this condition. Including parsley, cilantro, and chlorella in the diet will help to remove heavy metals. Niacin and naicinimide are also instrumental in detoxification.

Approximately 50% of people with fibromyalgia also suffer from depression. In that event, the following supplements may bring relief:

*SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine), a natural compound found in the body, is needed for proper immune function. It also helps to maintain cell membranes and is instrumental in the production and breakdown of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Studies have suggested the SAMe may help to treat fibromyalgia, along with the depression that may accompany it.

*5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) increases serotonin levels in the brain and reduces the number of tender points found throughout the body.

*St. John's Wort also helps to relieve depression by inhibiting neurotransmitters.

*Colloidal gold may be just what the "doctor ordered" in both relieving depression and addressing aches and pains. Colloidal gold is a supplement that addresses Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Please note that SAMe, 5-HTP, and St. John's Wort affect brain chemicals in different ways. Therefore, they should not be taken together, or along with antidepressants. Depending on a person's individual needs, one or another of these supplements may be more suitable in addressing fibromyalgia and the depression that may accompany it. However, colloidal gold is the one supplement that that will not interfere with other supplements or medications.

Lastly, exercise is very important for people with fibromyalgia. Low impact exercises will keep muscles strong and flexible, while also helping to control weight. Exercising may also ease depression, relieve pain, and help the individual to remain active. Recommended exercises include walking, swimming and water exercises, yoga, tai chi, or Pilates.

Sources:

http://www.tbyil.com/Fibromyalgia.htm
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/conditionsetoh/a/Fibromyalgia_2.htm
http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalgia_herbal_medications.html

Luella May is a natural health advocate and author helping people to heal naturally.  Her articles appear in several online venues, including Natural News, the Health Science Institute's Healthiertalk site, AlignLife and CureZone.  Luella is in the midst of editing her eBook, "The 8 Invisible Stains of Our Souls" which will be available in the next few months. She partners with Tony Isaacs, who authors of books and articles about natural health including "Cancer's Natural Enemy" and "Collected Remedies" Luella contributes to The Best Years in Life website for baby boomers and others wishing to avoid prescription drugs and mainstream managed illness and live longer, healthier and happier lives naturally. Luella co-moderates the CureZone "Ask Tony Isaacs featuring Luella May" forum as well as the Yahoo Health Group "Oleander Soup" and hosts her own yahoo group focusing on the natural wellbeing of pets.

See also:

Natural immune modulators may provide a key to beating immune disorders