By Hadley Gavin
There is an abundance of painkillers available that are natural and safe. In a world where addiction to prescription drugs and alcohol is an enormous societal problem, it makes sense to turn to natural alternatives that are non-addictive. Fortunately, there are an abundance of foods, spices and other remedies that do not promote addiction that are available to ease painful symptoms.
Below are eleven “Go To” options for health-minded consumers who don’t want to take dangerous drugs.
1. Ginger
Ginger is a tasty spice that not only adds flavor to your meal, it also fights inflammation. Since inflammation is associated with pain, ginger can definitely take a bite out of painful symptoms. The compounds in ginger that are associated with these benefits are gingerol, paradol and shogaol.
2. Frankincense
Frankincense is found in the Boswella Serrata plant and is celebrated as a painkiller that can be used to ease the symptoms of arthritis and other painful joint conditions. Daily Health Post reports that arthritis patients claim significant pain relief after only eight weeks of use.
3. Garlic
Garlic lovers have good reason to rejoice. Healthy and Natural World claims that the allicin and ajoene compounds present in garlic also provide pain relief due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, garlic is heralded as antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. Adding some garlic to your meal daily might be just what the doctor ordered.
4. Turmeric
The curcumin in turmeric is held by some experts to be one of the strongest anti-inflammatory painkillers available as a natural alternative. Turmeric is used as a spice for cooking and is especially prevalent in Indian dishes. The way it works is that the curcumin present in turmeric blocks cytokines.
5. Virgin Coconut Oil
It is doubtful that there is any person alive who is health-conscious who hasn’t heard of the many benefits associated with the use of virgin coconut oil. Touted as an anti-inflammatory, the lauric acid in the oil is believed to ease pain. A benefit bonus is that coconut oil is also believed to aid in weight loss.
6. Birch Leaf (Betula Lenta)
Known as one of the most powerful pain-relievers available without a prescription, birch leaf is often compared to cortisone. The methyl salicylate found in Birch leaves acts like a analgesic, antifungal, and detoxifying agent. Natural Society labels Birch leaves as one of the premier pain-relievers used.
7. Capsaicin
The chili plant contains capsaicin. This anti-inflammatory substance has been used successfully to treat pain symptoms. It is highly recommended for easing musculosskeletal pain that is chronic. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, capsaicin also acts as an anaesthetic.
8. Willow Bark
Historically, willow bark was chewed to relieve pain symptoms and reduce fevers. Salicin is the ingredient in willow bark that supports its anti-inflammatory nature. Interestingly, this chemical is the same ingredient in aspirin. Today, people brew it like tea or can purchase willow bark in liquid form or capsules. It is important to note that willow bark can be harmful to children.
9. Oily Fish
Adding oily fish to your diet is not only a wise idea because of its nutritional benefits, it also provides anti-inflammatory relief to people suffering from arthritic pain and poor digestion. Herring, salmon, mackerel and tuna are highly recommended. For people who don’t like the taste of fish, omega-3 capsules can be taken to enjoy the same benefits. Many doctors claim that omega-3 can be just as effective at relieving pain as ibuprofen.
10. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil has long been touted as a healthy fat offering many health benefits. In addition to its claim to fame for improving heart and brain health, it also provides pain relief. Oleocanthal is the compound in olive oil that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent to dull painful symptoms.
11. Devil’s Claw
This herb is most often used to reduce pain associated with back pain, headaches and arthritis. As a bonus, it also works to improve heartburn and liver health.
Conclusion
All too often, people in pain turn to dangerous pills to eliminate painful symptoms. This habit has caused record levels of addiction in society. The healthy alternatives above offer safer alternatives.
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