Nature is full of herbs, spices and their derivatives that effectively treat pain, inflammation and other related conditions. These herbs form an indispensable part of alternative medicine, and help to cure arthritic inflammation and other types of pain that older people frequently experience.
These natural remedies had been used in the past for all kinds of pain relief, from toothaches to backaches to any other type of pain – and they continue to be used even today. Not only are these natural remedies very effective in treating pain, but they also have the advantage of being free of the risk of side effects, drug interactions and addiction. These benefits are especially important for the elderly, who often take enough medications to begin with and are eager to cut down on side effects and drug interactions by going natural wherever possible.
Natural Pain Relief Remedies
1. Capsaicin
Hot chili pepper is the source of capsaicin that relieves pain by depleting substance P, a compound that carries pain sensation from the source to the central nervous system. However, the relief is not instant and may take a couple of days to act.
2. Cloves
An essential ingredient in many meat and rice preparations, this spice relieves pain associated with toothache, headache, and arthritic inflammation. This is because eugenol, an active ingredient in this spice, is a natural pain reliever.
3. Devil’s Claw
This herb, native to South Africa, is believed to be effective in managing arthritis and lower back pain. However, it should not be used by people with gallstones or ulcers in the stomach or intestines or by pregnant women.
4. Feverfew
Feverfew is a medicinal plant that has been used since antiquity in curing headaches, stomachaches, and toothaches. It is also effective against migraines and rheumatoid arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties are bestowed by a substance called parthenolide contained in it.
5. Fish oil
Fish oil is most effective in pain relief. This is because of the presence of Omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammatory response, thereby reducing pain.
6. CBD oil
One of the most effective pain relief products is CBD oil. Derived from the cannabis plant – yes, the same that gives marijuana, the ever-popular recreational drug – CBD doesn’t give a high. In fact, it is a miracle oil for pain relief that acts by interacting directly with receptors in the brain and immune system to reduce pain.
7. Ginger
Ginger extract is said to be good for joint and muscle pain. The phytochemicals contained in it help reduce pain and inflammation.
8. Resveratrol
Resveratrol, part of the polyphenols group, acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body not only from pain and inflammation but from risks of cancer and heart disease. It works at the cellular level to regulate pain. This compound is sourced from the skin of red grapes, peanuts, and berries.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric, an indispensable part of Indian culinary preparations, is effective against arthritis pain, inflammation, and heartburn. This is due to an antioxidant contained in it called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory properties. It protects the body from free radical molecules that damage tissue and cells.
10. Willow Bark
This is the bark of white willow that can be brewed like tea. It contains a chemical called salicin that cures aches and pains. Willow bark is particularly effective in treating headaches, lower back pain, osteoarthritis, and many other painful conditions.
It is not only the herbs, spices and plant derivatives that are natural pain relievers, certain other natural approaches are as effective, such as aerobic exercises, heat therapy, meditation, and the like.
Conclusion
Although pharmaceutical drugs still remain the first choice of people searching for pain relief products, they are steadily being drawn away from them towards natural alternatives. The reason is not only the reduced or no side effects of such natural options but also their effectiveness in treating pain and inflammation.
Merin Mathew is a content writer and a digital strategist. She is passionate about content marketing and help people in developing effective online marketing strategies to boost business revenue and web conversion. You may connect with her through her website, merinmathew.com.
