Pain is a major and a common symptom in various health conditions, such as arthritis, tendonitis (where inflammation is a causing factor) and other chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Pain brings a lot of discomfort and affects the day to day activities of the affected person.
There are various pharmaceutical drugs, which provide relief from the pain and its causing factors but can also cause other side effects in the body. Regular consumption of painkillers can harm the organs and affect their functioning.
Herbal & Natural Remedies For Pain Management
Natural remedies, though not fully proved, but are known to be beneficial in providing pain relief and managing the causative condition. Few herbs, which can be used as a natural pain reliever are:
White Willow Bark for Pain Management
White willow bark contains salicin, which is an aspirin-like compound that is known to be effective in controlling inflammation and reducing pain. The pain relieving effect from the herb white willow bark is observed to be mild to fair even in the case of knee and hip problems. Similar to aspirin, the bark is known to cause upset stomach, prolong bleeding time and also affect the kidney function as its potential side effects. This herbal remedy for pain management should not be given to children.
Turmeric: A Herbal Wonder for Pain Relief
Turmeric contains curcumin, a bioactive compound, which is well-known for its healing properties. Curcumin bears anti-inflammatory properties and its pain relieving effects almost match ibuprofen, acetaminophen and other over-the-counter painkillers, and unlike these painkillers, turmeric does not have any side effects on the body. Curcumin can be combined with other anti-inflammatory compounds to enhance the pain management effect. Along with its pain-relieving effects, turmeric can also prove to be helpful in conditions such as indigestion, psoriasis, cancer and ulcers.
Devil’s Claw: A Herb Which Beats Any Type Of Pain
Devil’s claw is used as a traditional treatment in curing the pain from rheumatoid arthritis and other joint conditions too. Devil’s claw soothes pain and improves quality of life. Devil’s claw is not advisable for pregnant women and for those suffering from gallstones, stomach, and intestinal ulcers.
Bromelain: A Natural Enzyme for Pain Management
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from the pineapple stems helps in reducing prostaglandin naturally, a hormone which induces inflammation and pain. This enzyme benefits people suffering from pain of arthritis and trauma-related inflammation. Bromelain also promotes healing of muscles and connective tissues.
Ginger: A Spicy Stem To Get Rid Of Pain Naturally
Ginger contains phytochemicals which stop inflammation and relieves pain. Ginger is known to help relieve cold and congestion along with managing the arthritis pain by lowering the prostaglandin levels.
Cloves: A Spicy Herb for Pain Management
Cloves are basically used to spice up the food. The oil and powder of clove are used as medicine. Clove powder is also available in capsules. Eugenol is an active ingredient present in clove, which is known for its natural pain relieving properties. Cloves are used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as nausea, cold, toothache, arthritis, headache, and other inflammatory conditions along with of course being a natural herbal pain reliever. Clove is also since long used as a topical pain reliever. Clove oil increases the risk of bleeding. Those with a bleeding disorder or taking blood thinner should be careful when consuming clove.
Capsaicin for Pain Management
Capsaicin is present in chilli peppers and gives them the fiery taste. The ointments containing capsaicin naturally help soothe pain, when applied locally on the area that hurts. Capsaicin also gives relief from arthritis pain. The supplements containing capsaicin help in cramps and diarrhea too.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Healthy Fats for Pain Management
Omega-3 fatty acids are the good fats, which lower inflammation, which is why they are beneficial natural remedy for easing joint stiffness, back pain and menstrual cramps. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are Brussels, sprouts, spinach, fish, and canola oil, which should be consumed for better management of pain.
Probiotics: Good Bacteria that Kill Bad Bacteria
Probiotic contains good bacteria, which lessen the inflammation and reduces the associated pain naturally. Probiotics also help in irritable bowel syndrome and reduces the pain and bloating associated with this disease. Probiotic-rich foods are yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.
Conclusion
Though these herbal and natural remedies are not supported much by scientific studies, adding them to the lifestyle of people suffering from chronic pain has given significant relief and improved quality of life. These herbal and natural remedies for pain management can be combined with other lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercises, meditation and deep breathing for decrease pain naturally. A few of them carry a risk of certain side effects, which is why it is always good to consult a health advisor before starting any of the above natural remedies for pain management to avoid any adverse reaction.
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