Herbal Medicine II - The Musculoskeletal System

Question 1

The Musculoskeletal System

Answer 1

Herbal treatments for the musculoskeletal system have following treatment aims:
* Reduce systemic inflammation to decrease tissue damage and pain.
* Remove acid wastes via the kidneys.
* Topical applications to reduce inflammation, promote healing, increase circulation and ease pain.

Question 2

Anti-inflammatory:

Answer 2

Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation.
* Willow bark contains precursors to salicylic acid, which forms on ingestion and has anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is a synthetic derivative of salicylic acid!
* 1 tsp decocted 3 x daily.

• Turmeric reduces inflammation by inhibiting NF-kB, a transcription factor that activates various inflammatory cytokines. Effects are further supported by the herb’s antioxidant activity. Reduced inflammation = reduced pain (analgesic) and tissue damage.
• ½ –1 tsp decocted 3 x daily.

Question 3

Anti-rheumatic

Answer 3

Anti-rheumatic: A traditional term referring to the reduction / prevention of pain & inflammation in the musculoskeletal system (muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments).
* Devil’s claw is a specific anti-inflammatory and analgesic for chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Indications include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, myalgia and lower back pain.
* The herb contains bitter compounds, which are cooling for hot, inflamed conditions.
* 1 tsp decocted 3 x daily.

Question 4

Depurative:

Answer 4

Depurative: Aids the removal of metabolic wastes.
* Celery seed removes acid wastes via the kidneys, has an alkalising effect and reduces inflammation and pain.
* 1 tsp decocted 3 x daily.

Question 5

Rubefacient:

Answer 5

Rubefacient: External ‘counter-irritant’ for pain.
* Ginger, black pepper and other ‘hot’ pungent herbs applied topically in oils / creams draw blood to the area, reducing pain and promoting healing.
* When using essential oils in external treatments use maximum 20 drops per 100 grams 3.4 fl. oz diluted in oil / cream.

Question 6

Musculoskeletal restorative.

Answer 6

Musculoskeletal restorative.
* Comfrey leaf is a valuable external treatment for musculoskeletal problems.
* Applied as poultice, cream or macerated oil (see last lecture), it reduces inflammation and pain in arthritis, speeds healing of fractures, strains and sprains. Apply liberally to affected area.
* Note: Do not apply comfrey to cuts, wounds or incorrectly set fractures.

Question 7

Formula for arthritic complaints:

Answer 7

• 1-part willow bark anti-inflammatory, analgesic.
• 1-part celery seed depurative to remove acid wastes.
• 1-part devil’s claw anti-rheumatic.
• Dose: 1 heaped tsp (decocted) per cup, 3 cups daily.
• Note: Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious auto-immune disorder. Herbal treatments should be designed by a qualified herbalist.