This chapter will explore the phytotherapeutic approach to a sample range
of conditions that effect muscles, bones and their associated structures.
It is important to remember and apply the selection criteria model used
throughout this course. This makes it a straightforward procedure to develop
an individualized prescription for a patient with any of the vast range
of named pathologies that can manifest in the musculo-skeletal system. To
recap, the model is based upon these stages:
- Herbal actions: The core of the model is applying an understanding
of herbal actions to human physiology. Obviously selection of actions that
are suitable for a specific person will depend on accurate diagnosis. Using
the information given in this course, the following stages are worked through:
- Through some diagnostic procedure identify what physiological process
to address and in what way.
- Select what actions are appropriate to achieve stage 1.
- Select relevant herbs based on their range of primary and secondary
actions, thus ensuring the `best fit'.
- System affinity (System Tonics): The phytotherapist can take
advantage of the fact that some herbs show an affinity for certain organs,
body systems or even specific types of tissue. They work as tonics or nutrients
for the areas involved. Such herbs can be used freely and safely without
thinking of them as `medicines'. They are at their best when used to nurture
health and vitality, so preventing health problems arising. During illness
the system affinity herbs will enhance the general health of the organ or
system concerned when combined with remedies selected for their specific
actions. They are especially useful where a tendency towards illness is
recognized but no overt disease is present. This way opens the possibility
of overcoming a weakness that could lead to disease later in life.
- Specific Remedies for the illness: The wealth of herbal knowledge
that has been garnered over many generations is rich in plants that are
traditionally considered to be specific in the treatment of certain diseases
or symptoms. Whilst holistic healing aims at going beyond symptomatic therapy,
this knowledge deserves great respect. Knowledge of specific remedies that
may heal their illness can add much to a prescription based on appropriate
actions and system support.
- Herbal biochemistry: Increasing attention is being given to
the biochemistry of herbal active constituents. This has led to the development
of many lifesaving drugs, but is very limited as an approach to using whole
plants. In the hands of an experienced Phytotherapist, knowledge of plant
pharmacology can add to the healing possibilities, but not as much
as is often thought.
- Intuition: A vital part of all healing, this obviously cannot
be explored in a correspondence format. There is a flowering of intuitive
rapport between Herbalist and their plants. Intuition has a special role
to play in healing, and the unique relationship between plant and person
augments it well. It is rarely possible to set things up so that such insightful
intuition always flows, but should be embraced when it does. Intuitive knowledge
should always be checked if at all possible. For example, if a practitioner
is not clear on the difference between Bearberry, Barberry and Bilberry
it might lead to unfortunate misunderstanding!
In most cases, successful herbal treatment of musculo/skeletal pathology
is based upon support for the whole body. Systemic factors are often the
foundation for the degenerative conditions that underlie such health problems.
Thus the truly healing anti-rheumatics can usually be identified
as primarily alteratives, diuretics or some other systemically
beneficial action. The anti-inflammatory based ones simply reduce
the symptom picture, and as desirable as this is, it does not usually indicate
a beneficial change in the disease process. An exception to this last point
would be where an active inflammation is worsening the pathological changes
to bone tissue.
Primary actions for the Musculo/Skeletal System.
There are a number of actions that are especially helpful in this system.
They are listed below with important plant examples given in English. The
section on anti-rheumatics is repeated to refresh memories!
Anti-Rheumatics: See below
Anti-Inflammatories: Angelica archangelica, Betula spp.,
Cimicifuga racemosa, Salix spp., Caulophyllum thalictroides,
Menyanthes trifoliata, Apium graveolens, Harpagophytum
procumbens, Tanacetum chrysanthemum, Guaiacum officinale,
Filipendula ulmaria, Populus tremuloides, Dioscorea villosa,
Alteratives: Cimicifuga racemosa, Iris versicolor,
Menyanthes trifoliata, Arctium lappa, Guaiacum officinale,
Berberis aquifolium, Smilax spp., Rumex crispus
Anti-Spasmodic: Valeriana officinalis, Cimicifuga racemosa,
Circulatory Stimulants: Capsicum minimum, Zingiber
officinale, Zanthoxylum americanum
Rubefacients: Capsicum minimum, Zanthoxylum americanum,
Brassica spp., Mentha piperita, Horseradish, Urtica dioica
Analgesic: Valeriana officinalis, Piscidia erythrina,
Salix spp., Filipendula ulmaria and Anti-Inflammatories
Diuretics: Eupatorium perfoliatum, Apium graveolens, Achillea
Nervines: Valeriana officinalis, Apium graveolens,
Piscidia erythrina and as indicated for each individual
Other Actions: as needed to ensure good elimination and general health,
e.g. bitters, hepatics, expectorants, & emmenagogues
Herbal Treatment for Specific Musculo-Skeletal Disorders
Inflammation and Arthritis
Use of Herbs in Treating Systemic Lupus Erythematosus