If you’re suffering from pain, whether it be back pain, headache, joint pain, etc., most often your initial instinct is to look for a pill. Many people rely on medications, frequently to the detriment of other areas of their body. Most pain relief drugs come with the risk of side effects and dangerous drug interactions. Moreover, with the stronger narcotics, there is always the possibility of becoming addicted. However, don’t despair. There are alternatives that are natural and much healthier for the body, but aren't lacking in their strength or effectiveness. It is possible to find the relief you need from a variety of natural painkillers. Many herbs and spices can treat inflammation and other conditions related to pain. These plant-based options fall under a category of medical treatment known as alternative medicine, which also includes acupuncture, yoga, chiropractic and other disciplines.
“Almost always, if we find pharmaceuticals doing the trick, we’ll find a plant doing the same trick—and doing it more safely,” remarks botanist James A. Duke, PhD, author of The Green Pharmacy Guide to Healing Foods.
“No matter how well you prescribe medication, chronic sufferers don’t get complete relief. It’s an enormous problem, and the medical community is doing a bad job solving it.” James N. Dillard, MD, author of The Chronic Pain Solution.
Here are six great natural pain killers:
Turmeric - The spice that gives curry its distinctive flavor, also has an abundance of pain-relief benefits. New research suggests that turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help to improve circulation. Turmeric has been used in traditional medicines for easing the pain of sprains, strains, bruises and joint inflammation. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is where it gets its healing power. This occurs by lowering the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation.
Panax Quinquefolius (Ginseng Tincture) - Ginseng is comprised of seven constituent ginsenosides, which possess immune-suppressive effects. Its anti-inflammatory properties can be attributed to the combined effects of the ginsenosides, which target different levels of immunological activity in the body.
Arnica (Arnica Montana) - Is a plant that grows in mountainous areas. Arnica has been used for centuries by many different cultures around the world as a trusted pain relief ingredient. The flowers and root are used traditionally to prepare topical remedies for relief of pain. Arnica is great for bruises, sprains, and inflammation due to injury or chronic conditions such as arthritis. It comes as creams, salves, ointments, gels and oils, all to be used topically.
Hemp Oil (Cannabidiol or CBD) - Derived from the hemp plant, CBD does not contain the THC of Marijuana and will not make you high. More and more studies are coming out showing the effectiveness of CBD for aches, pains, inflammation and even some forms of cancer. Given the growing acceptance of Hemp and its related uses and benefits. I fully expect pain relief products with CBD to become quite popular in the next few years.
Lavender Oil - Distilled from the flowering tops, the best lavender oil comes from high altitude European countries. Lavender oil is a strong antioxidant and is great for skin lesions. It can be used on everything from aching muscles and joints, to sunburns and acne.
Bee Propolis - Propolis is a type of resin that bees make to build and secure their hive. This versatile substance has also been used for centuries as a treatment for inflammation and pain. It can even be used to help boost the immune system. These benefits are the direct result of a combination of resin and plants the bees use to make the propolis. In addition, its anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with joint dysfunction and arthritis.