Natural Ways to Alleviate Daily Pain
Avery Bullock
If you struggle with daily pains, you might be tempted to take a quick over the counter painkiller. You aren’t alone. More than 80% of Americans use over the counter pain medications as a first step to treating pain and families spend an average of $338 a year on over the counter products.
Unfortunately, painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen can have side effects like stomach and kidney problems. While it may seem easy to just take a few quick pills, natural remedies can help alleviate the pain without many of the side effects. Before reaching for one of the countless pain medications, try opting for these natural supplements that are a key focus in functional medicine.
Fish Oil
Fish oil comes from the oily tissues of fish like salmon, trout and tuna. Fish oil contains two very important omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. It is most commonly used as an anti-inflammatory supplement and has been found to decrease joint pain and stiffness.
Reducing inflammation makes exercise and sleep much more comfortable, making fish oil a very popular natural remedy among people who suffer from arthritis. In addition to its daily pain alleviation, fish oil has many long term health benefits. The omega-3 acids found in fish oil have been linked with lower blood pressure, improved memory, and reduced likelihood for heart disease.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a compound found in chili peppers that produces the spicy sensations. It is most commonly used in a topical cream or ointment and can be used to treat several types of common pains. Several studies have linked capsaicin with reducing pain that arose from muscle aches, migraines, and inflammation. It can also be used to treat nerve damage resulting from serious illnesses such as shingles.
Magnesium
A common mineral, Magnesium has many versatile health benefits. It is commonly used to treat gastrointestinal pain like constipation and indigestion. Magnesium can act as a laxative as well as relieve the symptoms associated with heartburn. It can also be used to treat more general pain, as it has been proven to be an effective muscle relaxer.
White Willow Bark
White Willow Bark contains the chemical salicin which has been called “nature’s aspirin”. It can be effectively used to treat several common sources of pain including headaches and lower back pain. Common ways of consuming white willow bark include topical solutions, teas and capsules.
Peppermint Oil
Derived from the peppermint plant, peppermint oil has a diverse array of benefits. Peppermint oil rubs are a great way to treat headaches and general muscle soreness. A peppermint oil steam can also clear out sinus and lung congestion stemming from a cold. The oil’s scent is often used to increase concentration and awareness while providing some stress relief.
Next time you need some relief for a headache or cramp, think twice about using over the counter medications. Natural health supplements outlined above can provide a wide variety of pain relief as well as long term health benefits.