Herbal Remedies for Low Back Pain
Fri, February 2, 2007 at 03:19AM In spite of negative reports, many people with low back pain turn to alternate or complimentary medicine for relief - in some cases, herbal preparations. Recently a report published in the journal Spine offers evidence of effectiveness for some herbal remedies. The authors, sponsored by the Cochrane organization, searched databases of published clinical trials for well-controlled, randomized clinical studies. They found 10 trials for review. Two were high quality studies of Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), which showed strong evidence for short-term relief of pain at does of 50 and 100 mg harpagoside; in a third trial, the results were equivalent to those of 12.5 mg rofecoxib (Vioxx® - now withdrawn). Trials of White Willow Bark (Salix alba) were lesser in quality, but showed moderate efficacy for short-term pain relief at doses of 120 to 240 mg salicin; and salicin was equally effective as 12.5 mg rofecoxib, too.
Three poor-quality studies examined the topical application of Capsicum frutescens (Cayenne), and moderate evidence for effectiveness against pain.
I’ve railed in the past against the effectiveness of herbal medicines. I believe I must rethink my attitude, in view of some recent reports, including this one. Maybe more herbs should be given a chance to show what they can do. But this should be backed up by high quality clinical trials, like those for Devil’s Claw.
Reader Comments (1)
I agree we need to remain open minded - and I acknowledge you for doing so. It is best if conventional medicine works together with alternative (which used to be conventional) for the benefit of all. Cheers.