There are many options for pain relief. Some involve pharmaceutical drugs, but these drugs can be addictive and have side effects. There are also natural methods for pain relief that have proven to be valuable for many different types of pain. For example, the American Pain Foundation recommends the following natural remedies for pain:
- For fibromyalgia: ginseng
- For headache and nerve pain: kava kava
- For sciatica, arthritis and nerve pain: St. John’s Wort
- For muscle cramps: valerian root
Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes whole-body pain and fatigue. Ginseng helps patients by relieving stress and boosting the immune system. Ginseng fights inflammation, too.
Kava Kava relieves stress and may aid in migraine treatment. It’s also used to treat backaches and as a muscle relaxant.
St. John’s Wort has anti-inflammatory properties and may help to regenerate nerve tissue. It’s also very effective for depression, which is commonly seen in pain patients.
A natural muscle relaxant, valerian root can help relieve muscle cramps and spasms.
One other natural remedy, capsaicin, a substance derived from hot peppers, is effective for some types of muscle pain and lower back pain. It’s applied to the skin.
Here’s a few more:
- Turmeric for arthritis pain
- Feverfew for migraines.
- For arthritis and lower back pain, devil’s claw
Do not take any herbal remedy while pregnant.
Acupuncture
Originally from China, this has been used for centuries to alleviate pain. Tiny needles are inserted into certain parts of the body. The Chinese say this releases a flow of energy called chi. Western scientists suspect it works by causing the release of endorphins, which are the body’s own natural pain-killers. Does it work? Yes. According to well-known medical expert Dr. Oz, acupuncture is very effective in treating pain. In addition to the release of endorphins, acupuncture may also increase blood flow to affected areas.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic aims to relieve pain by gently manipulating body parts back into correct position. These treatments are called adjustments. It’s especially useful for neck and back pain. Chiropractic theory states that once the body is in correct alignment, natural healing will occur. Chiropractic is very effective for many people who try it.
Aromatherapy
This alternative therapy uses essential oils, such as lavender, to relieve pain and stress. The oils are used either as sprays into the air, or they are applied directly to the skin. Scientific theory for this method suspects that the strong fragrances affect the nose, which then stimulates the brain to release endorphins. Results have been mixed, but it’s easy to do and worth a try.
These have been just a few ideas for natural pain relief. As with any other type of therapy, no one method will work for everyone. It will likely be a matter of trial and error to find the best natural methods for pain relief for each individual.