Natural Treatment for Lumbago

lumbago, or lower back pain, is extremely debilitating, and we're always looking out for cures and solutions. In this article we'll look at some natural solutions for relieve the pain
Natural Treatment for Lumbago

Last update: 12 May, 2022

Lumbago, or lower back pain, is pain in the lumbar vertebra, the lower area of the back, which can be caused by different reasons and can affect musculature, ligaments, nerves, and vertebrae disks. In today’s article we’ll be explaining the possible causes and also some natural treatment for lumbago, including remedies to prevent and alleviate it.


Lumbago attacks are characterized by pain, stiffness, and/or reduced mobility. They can last for a few days, or can turn into a chronic disorder that considerably affects the quality of life for whoever suffers from it.

What are the possible causes?

X-ray showing area of back pain

 

Lumbago can be caused by several different factors, which we will review below:

  • Muscular tension and compensation
  • Abnormal spinal curvature (lordosis, scoliosis)
  • Kidney disease
  • Spinal disk herniation
  • Arthritis and osteoarthritis
  • Stress and emotional overloads
  • Constipation and intestinal problems

If your lumbago doesn’t improve inside 3 days, it is important to consult a doctor, as this could also be related to more serious illnesses. The doctor will confirm if it is lumbago with X-rays and/or MRI.

Anti-inflammatory treatment for lumbago

While you are suffering from a lumbago attack, it is vital to eat a balanced diet.  You should avoid foods which worsen inflammation, like dairy, white sugar, red meat, and refined flour. Eat instead foods that help to reduce inflammation, such as the following:

  • Natural fruit and vegetable juices (carrot, beet, celery…)
  • Red pepper
  • Chia seeds
  • Nuts
  • Green tea
  • Ginger
  • Pineapple
  • Papaya
  • Broccoli

Beet juice with chia seeds

 

Use of heat

The lumbar area in the body easily gets cold. This is why you should keep it warm with a heating pad, electric blanket, hot water bottle, or by covering it with wool fabric.

Another option is, while in the shower, to spray directly on the lumbar area. You should slowly increase the temperature to the hottest that you can stand, without scalding yourself. Move the spray from one side to another for 2 to 4 minutes. It will be even more effective if you do this while sitting.

It is important to keep in mind that this remedy should be avoided in cases of sciatic nerve problems and hernias.

Medicinal plants to drink

Medicinal plants that help reduce inflammation, provide minerals to the body, and cleanse are horsetail and sarsaparilla. Prepare daily two pints of infusion using both plants. Then add a squirt of lemon juice to it, and a bit of stevia to sweeten. Drink this beverage throughout the day.

Horsetail for lower back pain

 

Clay poultices

Clay is an excellent, inexpensive, and simple remedy for any type of inflammation and a treatment for lumbago. Firstly, make a poultice by mixing warm water with green or red clay until it forms a paste that you can apply, without it running. Make sure it stays compact to the skin on the entire lumbar area.

Then cover this with dressing or fabric, or also with a thick wool fabric to provide heat. Let it sit for at least half an hour, although it’s also possible to keep it on overnight. When you go to remove it, it will be dry. The clay will then absorb toxins, reduce inflammation, and will provide the body with minerals.

Arnica

Arnica is a plant used by athletes to prevent and treat injuries. It is found as an extract, and a cream among other forms. You can combine both topical and oral uses. If you decide to use homeopathy, use the Arnica Montana 9 CH remedy.

Rosemary vinegar

Rosemary helps mobilize circulation, and rosemary vinegar massages can be very beneficial as a treatment for lumbago. We can also make it ourselves by letting a few sprigs of rosemary soak in a glass bottle of vinegar.

Cupping therapy

This technique is a very ancient therapeutic method that was used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It consists of using a certain type of crystal cup that produces a vacuum effect by sticking to the body. It produces a suction effect on the skin and part of the muscle, opening pores and helping blood and lymphatic circulation.

This treatment can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain within 10 or 15 minutes. Although you can go to a therapist, this is something you can do by yourself.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.