If you're dealing with chronic pain from an injury or health condition, you may be looking for ways to alleviate discomfort with natural remedies. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can have side effects. Your body could also become immune to these medicines if you use them too often. Here are a few natural supplements for pain relief you may want to try.
Capsaicin is a substance in chili peppers that provides pain relief. If you apply capsaicin cream topically, you'll likely feel a tingling sensation on your skin. According to a study conducted in 2011 confirmed that capsaicin plays a vital role in eliminating pain.
Researchers still aren't sure how the substance relieves pain. However, some believe that capsaicin makes the skin less sensitive to pain by affecting the nociceptor fibers; these fibers carry pain signals throughout the body.
Pain comes in several forms such as inflammation, strains, and muscle spasms. CBD is a natural analgesic that reduces pain and inflammation. This natural substance comes in many forms, including drops and topical oils, but you can also take CBD gummies for pain management. According to a study in 1988 on anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity in Cannabis sativa, L. confirmed that CBD was more effective than any other cannabinoid. Another study published in Drugs in 200 revealed that CBD and CBG (cannabigerol) can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These findings have led many companies to produce natural cannabis supplements that don't contain the psychoactive characteristics of THC.
CBD also protects the nervous system and can improve the physical and mental function of people who suffer from Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. In 2009, CNS Neuroscience and Therapy stated that CBD is a "very promising agent" for "therapeutic use."
Curcuma is the active ingredient in turmeric and can make a significant difference in pain management. A small-scale research study conducted in 2014 revealed that Curcuma extract has as much effect on pain as ibuprofen for knee osteoarthritis if a person takes turmeric for a total of four weeks.
Turmeric also reduces inflammation and can be included in the diet as a seasoning for savory foods. The herb can also be added to smoothies and juices.
Feverfew is also known as a bachelor's buttons or featherfew and is a natural remedy for arthritis and migraines. You can also use the herb to reduce fever and manage pain from rheumatoid arthritis. Feverfew also contains natural compounds that reduce muscle spasms and inflammation. Researchers believe the components that are most effective in feverfew are flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones.
According to the American Migraine Foundation, individuals who used feverfew have had mixed results. However, the herb is likely helpful for treating migraines. A 2011 study also confirmed the feverfew leaves and flowers eliminate pain and have analgesic characteristics.
Ginger shows promise as a natural anti-inflammatory agent and pain reliever. A systematic review in 2015 revealed that taking 2 grams of ginger a day reduces muscle pain associated with weight training and running when individuals took ginger for a minimum of five days. Researchers also assert that ginger can speed recovery and reduce swelling associated with exercise. You can add raw ginger to your tea or smoothies or take a ginger supplement to receive the benefits of this natural pain relief remedy.
In addition to these supplements, other natural treatments can also reduce physical pain. Acupuncture and yoga offer pain management benefits and can improve circulation and flexibility to reduce pain in the future. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health asserts that acupuncture can help with low back, neck, and knee pain. Acupuncture can also help with osteoarthritis management.
You may also want to try yoga, which is a meditation practice that helps you manage and prevent pain naturally. Stretching and physical therapy are part of yoga and can help alleviate back pain, according to a 2013 study. Breathing and relaxation exercises are also part of yoga, which help you reduce anxiety and stress that may be related to chronic pain.
Before you take any new supplements, talk to your doctor about which natural remedies are safe for you. Dietary supplements can interact with some prescription medications and could have side effects based on your current health conditions.
Katie earned a BA in English from WWU and loves to write. She also adores hiking in redwood forests and photography. She feels happiest around a campfire surrounded by friends and family.