Can't Get Rid of Body Pains? Try These Natural Pain Relievers

Carried some heavy boxes and now stuck with a vicious back ache? You slept on the wrong side, and now the nagging knot in your shoulder won’t leave you alone. Your first instinct would be to buy some over-the-counter painkillers.

What is the Best Natural Pain Reliever?

But why use medication which can have possible side effects and long-term effects from overuse when you have the choice of the best natural pain reliever? But first, let’s look at different types of pain and the different painkillers that work.

Types of Pain

Pain falls under two categories: acute and chronic. Acute pain is swift; it comes and goes relatively quickly, with the pain itself being bearable. It can be a scarped arm or knee or a muscle sprain.

On the other hand, chronic pain lasts months and sometimes years if not appropriately treated—chronic pain links to an underlying disease like an autoimmune condition.

Most Common Medications for Pain

The medications that a doctor assigns for pain classify into two types. They are either non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids. NSAIDs operate by targeting inflammation. They reduce the inflammation at the site of the wound or injury, where the pain is most intense. At the same time, opioid pain relievers alter the brain’s perception of pain, making it believe that there isn’t any.

The human body, however, has its way of dealing with pain. Through hormones called endorphins (which the pituitary gland and hypothalamus release in response to pain), they, like opioids, alter the brain’s perception.

Side Effects of Painkillers

Painkillers such as opioids and NSAIDs can cause a range of side effects. They generally include:

Gastrointestinal problems,
Liver and kidney damage,
Cardiovascular effects.
Respiratory depression.
Psychological effects
Addiction.

Therefore, the long-term use of such medications can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.

However, to combat pain, one can opt for safer alternatives that include:

Physical therapy,
Mind-body therapies,
Non-pharmacologic interventions.

But remember that before trying any method, it is essential to seek medical advice. Therefore, before starting any pain management regimen and exploring alternative strategies when appropriate, talk with your healthcare provider.

Other than these techniques, some natural herbs can also alleviate pain. Let’s look at some of them!

Natural Pain Reliever Herbs

Here we have some natural pain relievers that can make your life easier:

Capsaicin

While it is famous as an ingredient of hot chili peppers and various other spicy foods, capsaicin is actually a pretty powerful painkiller. Multiple types of research point towards the fact that capsaicin has widely applicable analgesic properties, especially in neuralgias (a pain that stems from irritation or some form of nerve damage). You could consume it as a part of your favorite spicy food. However, you can also get the over-the-counter version of it in the form of lotion, formulations, and creams.

Turmeric

Like capsaicin, it is a popular spice used in curries and other dishes. Turmeric contains antioxidant properties, thus making it a natural pain killer. The main compound that makes up the structure of turmeric is curcumin (the main antioxidant). It also gives the spice its lovely golden color.

Turmeric is especially beneficial when treating joint pain like arthritis. Due to the many anti-inflammatory properties under its belt, it can also help with other forms of pain and inflammation. You could use the spice as it is. However, the curcumin would be much diluted in amount. That said, plenty of over-the-counter alternatives like capsules, tablets, or syrups exist.

Cloves

They contain a compound by the name of eugenol. It works well for tissue, nerve, and muscle pain, especially with constant toothaches. It can produce a potent analgesic effect when used properly with the application.

Clove oil d a widely used substitute for cloves and can be used for different types of pain. For toothache, apply it directly to the teeth. For the pain of the muscles or the tissue, apply on the inflamed or swollen area. It could calm it down and take away some of the pain.

Boswellia

Also known as frankincense, the herb is a highly effective and efficient anti-inflammatory agent and analgesic. Boswellia aids in the reduction of the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Research indicates that a 100 mg consumption of the herb daily should keep you pain-free. You must include Boswellia in your diet if you’ve inflammation, as it is a natural anti-inflammatory herb.

The Way Forward!

We hope that now you’re well aware of different types of pains and natural remedies to lessen them. So, the next time you experience pain anywhere in your body, try natural remedies!