Natural Options for Pain Relief

Natural Options for Pain Relief

The natural health researchers at Institute for Vibrant Living (IVL) have investigated the natural remedies available for pain relief. Here is one in a series of reports:

Over 50 million Americans are said to be in chronic pain.  Living pain-free is essential to living a quality life.  Before resorting to expensive injections or surgery, take a look at a few natural options for pain relief.

Foods

The consumption of sulfur-rich foods may help to lessen pain by reducing inflammation in the joints.  Examples of foods containing sulfur are lentils, broccoli, cabbage, avocados, coconut, soybeans and garlic. 

Foods high in antioxidants like red beans, blueberries, cranberries and artichokes also work to reduce inflammation.  

Antioxidant Herbs and Spices

Boswellin is an herb used in Ayurvedic (ancient Indian) medicine to treat arthritis and reduce associated pain.  Extracted from the boswellia serrata tree, it contains anti-inflammatory properties and is sometimes used as an ointment for sores.  Boswellic acids, the active components of the gum resin, provide relief from pain without the stomach upset of aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).

Curcumin, which is found in the spice turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory properties, similar to NSAIDs such as ibuprofen.  It has been shown to be as effective as the prescription drugs cortisone and phenylbutazone in reducing inflammation.  In one study of men experiencing surgery-related hernia, curcumin significantly reduced tenderness, as compared to drugs or a placebo.

White willow bark has been used for centuries in the reduction of pain and swelling due to arthritis.  A potent anti-inflammatory, it was the inspiration for the development of aspirin, a synthetic pain reliever.  The natural tannins in pure white willow bark are healthy for the digestive tract as opposed to aspirin, which can upset the stomach.

Capsaicin is a popular alternative for the treatment of pain caused by arthritis, shingles or neuropathy and can be found in supplement form or in some topical creams.  The active ingredient in chili peppers, capsaicin temporarily desensitizes C-fibers, which are nerve receptors on the skin.  Patients experience a reduction in pain for 3 to 5 weeks while the C-fibers regain sensitivity. 

Cod-liver oil contains chemicals similar to hormones called prostaglandins which reduce inflammation.  In one Scottish study, roughly 40 percent of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who consumed a daily dose of cod-liver oil were able to cut their NSAID use by one third. 

Eucalyptus Oilis effective for pain relief, as it enhances blood flow which directs more oxygen to the brain and to the area of application. This effect combined with analgesic, antispasmodic and sedative properties in the oil helps to relieve muscle tension and other aches and pains.

Hyaluronic acid is basically “motor oil for the joints.”  Due to this feature, it is often used to treat joint pain related to osteoarthritis. While the body produces hyaluronic acid, people with osteoarthritis have less of it in their joints, affecting joint lubrication and shock absorption and causing pain.   Some oral hyaluronic acid supplements are derived from rooster combs, one of nature’s richest sources.

With so many safe and effective natural options there is no longer a need to rely on expensive prescription medicines or surgery for pain relief.  Take advantage of the natural treatments above to get a handle on your pain.