Many people find it more convenient to take analgesics for pain relief. Some naturopathic doctors claim that the pains that we feel are sometimes psychological or stress-related. As such, there is no need for painkillers to alleviate the pain. There are a few, inexpensive options that work in reducing pain such as soaking in warm water, enjoying the outdoors, releasing inner endorphins, using massage and heat therapy, enjoying essential oils, having enough sleep and rest, and many more. If none of these natural remedies works, then it’s probably time to resort to pain medication.
The problem with most painkillers is the adverse effects to the patient and these common ones are over the counter (OTC) drugs. This includes ibuprofen, naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin. They can cause stomach pain, liver damage, kidney problems, constipation, dizziness, and if taken in large amounts can lead to difficulty in breathing. If left unchecked, using these painkillers more than what is prescribed can lead to adverse effects on your body organs.
It’s good to know that some doctors turn to natural substances to cure certain pains instead of OTC drugs. Their organic nature makes it safer than processed medicine or painkillers out there. Here are some of the list of natural medicines with healing properties and reduce common pains. These are plant-based and known as alternative medicines.
Turmeric and Ginger
Both turmeric and ginger are not only excellent spices but also considered a dynamic pain-fighting duo. Their medicinal properties have been widely recognized and proven worldwide. Ginger has phytochemicals known as gingerols and shogoal. It relieves motion sickness, nausea, stomach upset, and prevents the growth of H pylori, the bacteria that causes gastric infections and ulcers. A study was conducted among 150 women who suffered severe menstrual pain. They were given ginger, and it was found out that it was as effective as ibuprofen. Another study also revealed that this amazing spice can relieve migraines and headaches. Regular consumption of ginger can also reduce certain pain associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Turmeric, on the other hand, is a spice commonly used in Southeast Asia. It has an active compound known as curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote healing. According to research, its healing properties help improve rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, post-operative inflammation, stomach ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome. You can mix turmeric and ginger to your diet or your favorite beverage or buy supplements online.
Kratom
If you happen to visit health stores or read health news, you may have heard about kratom. It is a herbal extract that comes from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, an evergreen tree commonly grown in Southeast Asia.
The fresh leaves can be chewed, and the dried ones can be brewed or swallowed, or used in cooking. The liquid form is sold for the treatment of muscle pain, panic attacks, diarrhea, and cramps. You can buy Kratom in different forms. It can be crushed and smoked like tobacco, or ground up in pills. However, this should be taken in moderation as too much consumption can make you sleepy.
Cloves
Like ginger and turmeric, cloves add flavor to our dishes. They are also used as medicine. The active ingredient called eugenol is also present in most over the counter pain rubs. It is considered a topical remedy for nausea, colds, headache, toothache, and arthritic inflammation. Cloves come in capsule, powder form, or oil. Rubbing a small amount of clove oil in your gums eases the toothache. Just be careful in consuming clove products as they have been reported to increase the possibility of abnormal bleeding.
Willow Bark
Traditionally, people chewed the bark to ease pain and fever. The white willow bark contains a chemical compound called salicin, which is similar to the primary ingredient in aspirin. It is marketed as a dried herb and can be brewed. It also comes in capsule form or a liquid supplement. It can treat lower back pain, osteoarthritis, headache, and other similar conditions. However, just like aspirin too much consumption may result in stomach upset, may disrupt kidney function, or prolong bleeding. Large quantities can be dangerous to children as willow bark can be poisonous.
In conclusion, people are becoming more conscious about pain medication and its side effects on the human system. The use of natural medicines has been used for centuries and proven to be effective in treating most conditions. Aside from being inexpensive, most of them are naturally available. But it is important to be extra careful in taking these herbs medicinal plants as improper intake and consumption may have side effects.
