Many people seek alternative pain relief solutions as a means to avoid long term side effects associated with medication, including acupuncture, massage therapy and nutritional supplements.
Peppermint essential oil applied directly to an aching area is an effective home remedy, while capsaicin cream (derived from chili peppers) helps ease discomfort by inhibiting substance P, the chemical that transmits pain signals from nerve endings to the brain.
Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) leaves and oil have long been utilized to provide relief, freshen breath, relax muscles, soothe headaches and increase mental alertness. According to one study, applying diluted peppermint oil directly onto foreheads and temples reduced tension headache pain significantly. In addition, its application has also been found effective against nausea caused by cancer chemotherapy treatments or other conditions.
Peppermint oil may be applied topically as a supplement or in the form of lotion, ointment or soap for skin application, although large doses should be avoided because peppermint contains compounds which could interfere with certain medications. Individuals taking medications should consult with their healthcare providers prior to trying peppermint extracts or oils; peppermint should never be applied topically on babies or children.
Lavender
Lavender can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, treat respiratory ailments, and treat general anxiety disorders. You can inhale lavender oil or take capsules of it for its therapeutic benefits – though always consult an integrative medicine provider or certified herbalist first, as some herbs may interfere with certain medications or alter dosage levels.
A 2023 study demonstrated that inhaling lavender oil, linalool, or linalyl acetate significantly reduced the intensity of pain experienced by people undergoing epidural steroid injections or lumbar medial branch blocks. This effect may be attributable to homeostasis of GABA-evoked currents; protection from excessive glutamate levels; or simply balancing of autonomic nervous systems.
Flowers of Lavandula angustifolia grow on short, one-half inch-long spikes arranged in whorls or rings of six to ten flowers, with thin leaflike bracts attached at their bases for support and fragrance derived from oils contained within each spike.
Frankincense
Distilled resin from Boswellia carterii trees produces the essential oil known as Frankincense, which can be inhaled or applied topically and has been found to reduce pain and inflammation while stimulating immune systems and killing cancer cells. Studies have also confirmed this effect.
Anti-inflammatory properties of boswellic acids found in this extract stem from their ability to block leukotrienes – compounds which cause inflammation – from being released. This may explain its efficacy against conditions like arthritis.
Studies conducted on rats revealed that frankincense helped alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, but more research needs to be conducted in humans. Furthermore, studies were done on its ability to treat Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis – with results being comparable with standard medications.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a root plant from the ginger family, has long been utilized in Indian and Asian cuisine as well as traditional Eastern medicine for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is its active constituent that gives this root plant its primary anti-inflammatory benefits.
Studies have demonstrated that inflammation is often at the core of patients’ discomfort. Implementing turmeric into one’s diet could potentially help decrease inflammation in patients suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, studies having demonstrated.
Studies have also demonstrated the benefits of turmeric for those suffering from diabetic neuropathy, providing pain relief through either supplement form or applied topically in ointments or oils for targeted pain relief. UnityPoint Health Dietitian Krista Kohls advises those interested in taking turmeric supplements before doing so, to consult their physician first as this can ensure it won’t interfere with any medications being taken at the same time.
Massage Therapy
No matter if it is chronic illness or temporary injury, massage therapy can provide relief and restore balance to the body. Therapeutic massage improves circulation which brings oxygen and nutrients directly to muscles and tissues to foster healing and speed recovery.
Deep tissue massage can be highly effective at relieving tight muscles and tendons caused by overuse or an injury, such as caused by myofascial release or trigger point therapy techniques that apply direct pressure directly onto congested areas that sometimes become “knots.”
Massages may help strengthen immunity by stimulating white blood cells that fight viruses, according to a recent study. Before scheduling an appointment for any massage therapy services, speak with your rheumatologist about which techniques may be safe for you.
