Natural pain relief options are safe, effective and often much less expensive than prescription or over-the-counter medicines. From turmeric and Boswellia extract to essential oils and therapeutic massage sessions, these natural solutions have been proven to ease discomfort without harmful side effects.
Lavender and peppermint oils help alleviate headaches by improving circulation, while eucalyptus relieves joint and muscle discomfort. Furthermore, all three oils possess analgesic properties for pain relief.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a close relative of ginger, is widely used both in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine as well as traditional eastern medicine. Packed full of antioxidant curcumin which offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Preliminary lab studies suggest it may also improve gastrointestinal health, providing protection from certain forms of colitis and stomach ulcers as well as high cholesterol and diabetes.
One study concluded that turmeric had anti-inflammatory effects which helped alleviate pain and function issues among individuals living with osteoarthritis of the knee. Researchers believed this to be likely responsible.
Note, though, that over-the-counter dietary supplements aren’t tested the same way prescription drugs are. And although turmeric and curcumin tend to be relatively safe when taken in reasonable doses, they may interact with medications or cause GI discomfort for some individuals in larger quantities. According to oncology clinical dietitian Mary-Eve Brown RD LD for optimal results it’s best to get this spice from whole food sources rather than pills, tinctures, gummies or capsules.
Boswellia
Boswellia resin, often referred to as frankincense or olibanum, has long been utilized as part of traditional health practices for chronic inflammation conditions. Lignans and boswellic acid present in its plant help inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines while its extract has shown promise in alleviating pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), such as stiffness.
Researchers have recently discovered that boswellic acids can inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in producing pro-inflammatory molecules. Furthermore, these acids can also block nuclear transcription factor kappaB activity to stop production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
A recent randomized trial demonstrated that boswellia supplements were just as effective as mesalazine at reducing inflammation and maintaining remission for Crohn’s disease patients, yet more research needs to be conducted into their benefits in other forms of IBD. If any medical conditions exist or prescription medications are currently being taken it’s wise to speak to your healthcare provider before beginning to take new supplements.
Essential oils
Essential oils are natural compounds found in the petals, stems, roots, bark and seeds of various plants. When extracted through steam distillation, their unique scent can enhance both physical and emotional wellbeing. Although more research needs to be conducted in this area, some studies indicate that essential oils may relieve pain as well as other health issues.
Lavender oil, for instance, has been shown to provide relief for headaches and menstrual cramps while simultaneously decreasing anxiety and encouraging restful sleep. Peppermint oil has proven useful for relieving muscle and joint pain relief; additionally it has antispasmodic and analgesic properties as well. Wintergreen oil also works well as an natural alternative to aspirin since its composition contains methyl salicylate which acts like the active ingredient found in aspirin [1].
Addition of new oils to your wellness regime should always be conducted under the guidance of a licensed holistic practitioner. Essential oils are not subject to FDA oversight like medications and could potentially do more harm than good when misused improperly; ensure you dilute with carrier oil prior to applying them directly onto the skin, and never consume them by ingestion.
Mind-body techniques
Mind-body techniques can be an effective way to ease pain, anxiety and stress. These strategies work by altering how the brain responds to pain signals; these methods may be combined with traditional treatments like meditation, breathing exercises, massage therapy, Tai Chi or Qi Gong as they also release tension in muscles to ease discomfort.
Therapeutic massage therapies may be useful in alleviating symptoms related to chronic health conditions, including chronic pain, insomnia and coronary artery disease. Furthermore, in some instances they can even help prevent future pain episodes and enhance overall quality of life.
Mind-body techniques address different aspects of pain experience, such as beliefs, emotions and mood; perception changes; ability to alter pain perception; stress relief related to it and psychotherapies such as supportive group therapy or counselling; biofeedback which teaches control over bodily functions; hypnotherapy or exercise therapies such as acupuncture or Tai Chi or Qi gong.
