Penn Herb Wellness Guide

Fibromyalgia

Also indexed as:Fibromyositis, Fibrositis, Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Myofibrositis, Primary Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Fibromyalgia—an unsolved mystery—is a complex syndrome with no known cause or sure cure. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

SupplementAmountWhy
5-HTP
100 mg three times per day2 stars[2 stars]
Supplementing with 5-HTP may ease symptoms.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
1,500 mg daily for ten weeks 2 stars[2 stars]
Supplementing with acetyl-L-carnitine may improve musculoskeletal pain, depression, and general health in people with fibromyalgia.
Coenzyme Q10
Refer to label instructions 2 stars[2 stars]
In a preliminary trial, headaches and overall symptoms in people with fibromyalgia significantly improved after supplementing with coenzyme Q10.
SAMe
800 mg daily2 stars[2 stars]
Supplementing with SAMe may increase serotonin levels in the blood and help relieve symptoms.
Vitamin D
Refer to label instructions 2 stars[2 stars]
In a double-blind study of women with fibromyalgia who had low or moderately low blood levels of vitamin D, supplementing with vitamin D improved pain, compared with a placebo.
Magnesium
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
A preliminary trial found that a combination of magnesium and malic acid might lessen muscle pain in people with fibromyalgia.
Malic Acid
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
A preliminary trial found that a combination of magnesium and malic acid might lessen muscle pain in people with fibromyalgia.
Melatonin
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
In one study, supplementing with melatonin reduced tender points and improved sleep in people with fibromyalgia.
Tart Cherry
80 mg anthocyanins, the equivalent of approximately 100120 cherries, 1624 ounces tart cherry juice blend, 1 ounce of liquid concentrate, or 400 mg of concentrate in tablets or capsules 1 star[1 star]
Tart cherries contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances that may reduce muscle pain.
Vitamin B1
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
People with fibromyalgia may be deficient in vitamin B1. Supplementing with the vitamin may correct the deficiency and improve symptoms.
Vitamin E
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Vitamin E was used in one early study with beneficial and sometimes dramatic results.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.