Natural Remedies for Back Discomfort

Most adults experience back discomfort at some time in their adult life. Whether the cause is work-related, new exercise routine, or stress, back discomfort can be debilitating, stopping full participation in work or everyday activities. Well-functioning bones, joints, and muscles require strength and flexibility. Natural remedies for back discomfort can help to relieve the pain and to restore movement.

Let’s dive into what some of the best herbs, essential oils, supplements and lifestyle habits can be if you are suffering from back pain.

Herbs for Back Discomfort:

1. Valerian

Valerian helps to relax the nerves and muscles and can help ease spasms. Valerian has a pretty earthy taste to it. You can take it as a tea, but you might need to use a large spoonful of honey to mask the flavor. Valerian is best known as a sleep aid but it, also, is great as a antispasmodic herb.

The best way to take Valerian is by taking the tincture or tea. Here’s the recommended dosage below…

Tincture dosage: 1–4 ml, up to three times a day

Tea dosage: Decoction of 1 to 2 teaspoons of the dried root per 1 cup of boiling water, up to three times a day

*Avoid if taking any sleep inducing medication

2. St. John’s Wort Topical Oil

St. John’s Wort is excellent at reducing nerve inflammation and helps to soothe discomfort locally. It’s not recommended to use if you are pregnant, out in the sun, or on certain prescription medication.

I recommend using the macerated flowers on your back or the affected area a few times a day.

Essential Oils for Back Discomfort

Certain essential oils, just like herbs, can increase local blood circulation (known as rubefacient oils) and can be very beneficial in massage blends to help ease the discomfort. I, also, recommend taking a epsom salt bath with these oils too.

• Rosemary – releases tension in stiff and overworked muscles.
• Marjoram – warming and great for muscle spasms.
• Lavender – helps to ease tension and relax muscles.

How to Use:

• Topical. Add 10 drops of the essential oil to a Tablespoon of of almond oil. Massage on the area of concern.
• Bath. Take 2 cups of epsom salt and put in a glass jar. Add 10 drops of essential oil to the salt. Stir and pour into hot bath. Stay in the bath for at least 20 minutes.

You can purchase essential oils directly from me by going here.

Supplements for Back Discomfort:

• Vitamins B1, B6 & B12 taken together may help the relapse of back discomfort linked to vertebral problems.
• Proteolytic enzyme bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple juice and in the pineapple stem. It helps to reduce discomfort and promotes faster regeneration of the muscles and bones.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Your Back:

• Stay active and do yoga to keep your spine flexible
• Sleep on a medium-firm mattress
• Wear flat shoes
• Stop smoking
• See a chiropractor regularly
• Check out the Alexander technique
• Look into acupuncture