Herbalism is another practice that takes an overall look at the body when trying to alleviate back pain. Having studied your diet and lifestyle, the herbalist will prescribe a remedy based on plant extracts such as Ma Huang (a chinese herb)and dandelion. A medical herbalist can best help in the alleviation of conditions such as rheumatic pain, sciatica, and inflammation, as well as the reduction of tension in the muscles. Back pain caused by structural damage is better left to manipulative techniques. Members of the National Institute of Herbalists have completed a 4 year training course and have the letters M.N.I.M.H. or F.N.I.M.H. after their name.