OF PAIN RELIEF: NATURAL PAINKILLERS

When we suffer from headaches or backaches, our first instinct is to run for over-the-counter pain medication. They are very effective but the long-term effects of using such drugs can be harmful to our overall health.

Before the invention of pain medication, people used alternative methods of relieving pain. Natural pain relief supplements were the way to go.

Below is a list of alternative therapies that you can use instead of over-the-counter pain medication. (1)

• Cloves

Cloves are widely used to spice up our pastries and meats. What most people do not realize is that cloves are one of the most effective natural painkillers. I have personally used them to treat a toothache and they worked wonders. The pain was gone in a matter of minutes.

Just like other pain supplements, cloves are not only used for pain relief but it is also used to treat nausea and colds.

Eugenol is the active ingredient in cloves that is responsible for its pain relieving properties. You will notice that some of the over-the-counter medications contain eugenol.

As a form of medication, cloves can be bought as a capsule, powder form, or oil.

Clove consumption is, however, discouraged for people with bleeding disorders.

• Willow bark

For the longest time in history, people have been making use of white willow bark to treat aches. It contains salicin which is the main ingredient in Aspirin.

Willow bark is discouraged for people who have a sensitivity to Aspirin. It is also harmful to children.

• Turmeric

Because turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory, many people use it to relieve pain. It is an anti-oxidant that is used for the treatment of cancer, stomach upset, psoriasis, and indigestion among others.

• Acupuncture

This is a medical practice to relieve pain that is famous in Chinese culture. The practice balances the body’s energy paths.

During the process, acupuncturists place tiny needles at the source of pain. The pricks cause the production of serotonin, a feel-good hormone that is responsible for pain relief.

Acupuncture is mostly used to ease migraines and other chronic pains. To use it, it is advisable to have a certified medical practitioner handle it.

• Heat and Ice

This is the most common home remedy for pain. What most people do not understand is when to use heat or when to use ice.

Ice is used to relieve pain or inflammation shortly after a muscle or tendon strain. Heat will then be used after the inflammation has died down to bring further relief.

Most people who use natural pain relievers try to avoid the side effects of the long-term use of over-the-counter pain medication. It is critical to note that not all pain will respond to natural pain relievers. They may also only respond to certain pain. Avoid using natural pain relievers for children as this could harm them. (2)