Chronic pain is not something easy to deal with. Many people all over the world suffer from chronic pain every day and this can affect their quality of life in even the smallest of ways. Pain management can be a difficult task, and often there are so many medications that we turn to that often don’t do the trick.
Instead of reaching straight for the ibuprofen or CBD from Cannabismo.ca to relieve your pain this winter, why not try something a little more natural? Here are some of the best natural pain relievers in the world.
1. Ginger
Ginger is a power anti-inflammatory, and is more effective than ibuprofen for those suffering with pain. As a spice, ginger is useful in relieving pain in arthritis as well as tendinitis and more. Chemicals inside ginger block the formation of inflammatory compounds such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric is best known for giving a wonderful yellow colour to rice dishes and a fragrant spice flavour to curries. However, it is also effective when it comes to joint pain management. This simple spice contains anti-inflammatory properties as well as being able to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. Curcumin is the active ingredient and reduces the production of enzymes responsible for swelling.
3. Capsaicin
Bell peppers and chilli peppers are flavourful and can be enjoyed in many different dishes. This also means that you can easily add this ingredient to your diet for a pain relief boost instantly. Capsaicin is extracted from chilli’s and used in medicine, but can also be ingested with food. It inhibits substance P (known for transmitting pain signals) and therefore reduces pain.
4. Valerian Root
For those Game of Thrones fans out there, this isn’t the same as Valyrian steel. This natural root is lesser known however has some amazing properties for the body and the mind. It is known as nature’s tranquiliser and helps to soothe the mind, reduce anxiety, and reduce nerve sensitivity.
5. Magnesium
Magnesium might not sound natural, but this mineral is essential for the body and is used for many purposes. Magnesium supplements can be found in the pharmacy and help to reduce head pain such as migraines, and can also be an effective pain tool for fibromyalgia. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are a great source of magnesium for you, so sprinkle these on salads and eat in bread.
6. Cats Claw
Although it might sound like something straight out of a witch’s potion, cat’s claw is a plant which is incredibly effective for pain management. It is native to the Amazon rainforest and has hook-like horns, hence the name. It blocks the production of prostaglandin, therefore reducing inflammation in the body.
7. Boswellia
If you have never heard of this plant before, it is likely because you know it as Indian frankincense. Boswellia is a plant that contains many active ingredients, and produces a resin that reduces both inflammation and pain. Taking this as a supplement is a great way to reduce pain naturally without going too extreme.