When it comes to dealing with pain, there are many alternative options to meds that could be useful if you want a break from pills. Here are just a few alternative pain killers that are worth trying.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice belonging to the ginger family that has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Many medical studies support its use as a pain relief supplement – it can be effective at alleviating everything from stomach pain to join pain. Turmeric is often consumed as a powder in a hot mug of water. It can also be sprinkled on food or taken as tablets.
Willow bark
The bark of a willow tree contains salicin, which has similar pain relief properties to aspirin. It can be an effective remedy against many types of pain ranging from headaches to menstrual cramps. Willow bark is often available as a liquid extract that can be added to drinks (such as this Herb Pharm willow bark extract). You can also put willow bark in a teapot and make your own tea.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an important nutrient that has been found to help muscles relax. It is, therefore, a good remedy against muscle pain. It can also be very effective against many forms of nerve pain. You can consume pure magnesium as oil or tablets. Green leafy vegetables are also very high in magnesium.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the ingredient found in chilies that gives them their spicy kick. Whilst you don’t want to be putting pure capsaicin in your mouth, it can be a great form of pain relief when applied straight to the skin as a gel or cream, helping to beat joint pain and migraines. Capsika 25 is a popular brand of capsaicin gel.
CBD oil
The likes of Nuleaf Naturals CBD products could also be worth trying out as a form of pain relief. CBD oil is extracted from hemp and contains cannabinoids, which are effective at fighting the pain of all types ranging from muscle pain to joint pain. CBD oil is unlike cannabis in that it does not provide a high, simply offering the pain relief properties – this makes it widely legal in most places around the world. CBD oil can be added to tea or foods or applied straight to the skin.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting long tiny needles into specific parts of the body. Many people find it to be very effective as a form of relief for many types of pain. Acupuncture should only ever be carried out by a qualified professional.
A hot bath
A hot bath is an underrated form of pain relief. Most doctors will recommend hot baths to back pain sufferers and mothers experiencing the first contractions of labor because it can be so effective at fighting pain. This is because the hot water helps to relax muscles and stimulates nerve endings, providing an endorphin rush that numbs the pain.
