For many people, when they are suffering from pain, there is the automatic response to reach for the painkillers. However, although many of them are highly effective, they are also chemicals which can not only cause dependency but also cause problems with digestion and other side effects. If this is something that concerns you, then there are many natural alternatives that you can use to relieve your pain.
Willow Bark
Willow bark has been used in medicine for centuries, and there is now strong evidence of its painkilling properties. Willow bark contains the chemical salicin which is similar to an ingredient found in aspirin. Originally, people would chew the bark of the white willow to help relieve pain and fever; now it is sold in a dried form that you can make into a tea. You can use it to help with headaches, low back pain, and even osteoarthritis. However, it is important to know that it can have effects on the stomach and kidneys, and also increase the risk of bleeding like aspirin.
Turmeric
The spice that gives you the color and flavor to your curry also has many other properties that can help the body. It contains the compound curcumin which is an antioxidant that helps to protect the body from free radical molecules that can damage cells. It can also be used for the treatment of indigestion, ulcers, stomach upset, and psoriasis. There are also studies that have been looking into its use to fight cancer.
Cloves
Like turmeric, cloves have long been used in cooking to spice up pies or give a nice flavor to pickling vinegar for onions. However, cloves have other properties such as helping to ease nausea and to treat colds. Cloves also have an effect on pain such as headaches, arthritis, and toothaches. Clove oil is a common treatment for toothache and has a lot of positive reviews from people. It is important to note that using too much-undiluted clove oil on the gums can have the opposite effect, so it isn’t recommended for prolonged use.
CBD Oil
Made from a derivative of cannabis, CBD oil has all of the health benefits without any of the addictive properties. It also doesn’t leave you feeling ‘high’ so it can be used at any time it’s needed. CBD oil hemp tea has inflammatory properties, which helps in easing off the swelling and the pain associated with it. You can get CBD in many forms such as in oil, or what is called CBD isolate. The isolate is a crystallized form of CBD that can be used in moisturizer creams or as a supplement. CBD also has other benefits including helping to reduce anxiety and depression. There are also studies ongoing on its use to help treat some types of cancer. There is also a lot of anecdotal evidence as to its benefits.
For those people that cannot take traditional painkillers or want an alternative that is natural with little side effects, then these can be of great help. It is, of course, important to speak to your doctor if you are thinking of stopping your pain medication.
