Herbs for Back Pain and Mood
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Name not given
Posted on: May 5, 2001

I have been taking Lortab for back pain and have noticed that it makes me feel on top of the world for a few hours. Sometimes I take it just because it makes me feel emotionally well. I definately don’t want to get addicted to that. Is there any kind of herb that can come close to making me feel this way? I do take St. John’s wort to keep my moods stable but is there anything else to give me energy and make me feel happy?

Lortab is an opioid analgesic used to alter the perception of pain and to depress the central nervous system.

St. John’s Wort works on several levels. It is anti-inflammatory, antiviral and nourishing for all of the nerves. It is useful for soothing the nerves in the digestive system as well as those related to depression and anxiety. It is beneficial for inflammation that irritates nerve tissue, which may be a factor in your back pain. As well as using the tincture internally, a good, red St. John’s wort oil can be rubbed on your back to diminish pain.

Wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa) has pain killing and sedative actions like opium, and has been used as an opium substitute. It is useful in back pain. It can be used in homeopathic doses, which would resolve your addiction worries.

Kava kava is a herb with anti-anxiety action without sedative effects. It has traditionally been used to create a feeling of well-being.

Regular exercise is an important part of promoting a feeling of well being. If physically possible for you, a daily walk, especially in a natural setting, is helpful on the physical, mental and emotional levels.

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