COMMUNICATED CONTENT – Pain is one of the most powerful factors that can hinder the quality of life. Managing chronic pain through popping painkillers is not a very effective answer due to their endless side effects. Over the counter pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), non-opioid painkillers, and compound painkillers for controlling mild to moderate pain take their toll on the liver, especially with prolonged use. Narcotics, on the other hand, can easily develop an addiction besides their other risky side effects. Getting back to nature to control the pain is a trial and error process that requires some patience until you find something that works for managing your pains.
Here are seven of the most effective natural painkillers for a higher quality of life and a healthier lifestyle.
1. Turmeric
This yellow-colored spice has been since ancient times for its numerous healing properties. Turmeric goes beyond just the management of pain, it’s packed with antioxidants that protect the body against cell and tissue damage. Turmeric is extremely beneficial for stomach pains as it treats indigestion, helps with ulcers, and alleviates their pains. Other health benefits include the reduction of risks of many types of cancers, curing inflammation, and lowering the risk of heart disease. Curcumin found in turmeric is the perfect anti-inflammatory compound that helps with joint pain and arthritis.
2. Kratom
When it comes to alternative medicine, you can count on Asia to have the best plants and herbs with various health benefits. Kratom is a plant indigenous to specific parts in Asia, especially in the southeast part and Thailand. Many people are completely at a loss when it comes to finding kratom for sale, yet, it has been available for many years for patients who want to alleviate their pain, manage diarrhea, cure cough, and help with curing fatigue. From its leaves, a complex stimulant that is similar to how opioid works is extracted and used for its many healing properties. It is easily found in US markets as a supplement that also helps people with low energy levels to be more alerted and to have higher levels of concentration.
3. Lavender Oil
Studies have found that inhaling lavender oil through different methods such as sprays and diffusers helps people manage pain. Other than its healing properties, lavender has been a cornerstone of alternative medicine options that tackle mental health. This study has proven that lavender is specifically beneficial for alleviating migraine headaches, reducing anxiety, and helps people sleep easier and faster.
4. Cloves
If you have ever read the ingredients on any pain medication that targets tooth pain, you have probably found cloves included in the active ingredients. Other than relieving pain, cloves are used as an effective fungal treatment. One thing you should look out for is combining cloves with any blood-thinning medication as it might increase the risk of bleeding.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil has been used for ages to ease stomach pains and aid digestion. However, new studies revealed that it also works like magic in releasing muscle tension which by extension relieves muscular pain. Smelling and inhaling peppermint oil has soothing properties in mind and memory and helps with nerve pain and headaches. If you are still feeling skeptical, try to add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to your bath, especially after workouts, and watch the oil work its magic.
6. Willow Bark
Inflammation is the main cause of most pains and aches. People have been using willow bark as a natural medicine for ages due to its many healing properties. In fact, the bark of white willow contains a very similar ingredient to Bayer, which is the main ingredient in aspirin. Originally, people used to chew on the bark itself to manage pain and control fevers. However, nowadays, it’s sold more conveniently as a dried herb for ease of use.
7. Capsaicin
This ingredient can be found in red chili peppers. While topical use of this substance might cause a mild burning sensation, still in small controlled doses, capsaicin can be used as an effective pain-relieving medication. A study has proven that this painkiller works by numbing the skin and reducing its sensitivity. This is why it’s widely used in topical creams that target managing pain.
Between alternative medicine and pharmaceutical drugs, one cannot deem one better than the other due to the unfair comparison. What works for you might not work for someone else. This is why natural painkillers are a trial and error game that should be carried until you find the right medicine for your needs.
