Pain can be persistent and debilitating. Pain management techniques, therefore, involve a series of treatment options like medications and alternative therapies. These treatment options generally have their own set of disadvantages. With prolonged use of opioids, people can get clouded thinking, drowsiness, and even addiction. Therapies like acupuncture, laughter, hypnosis, and others may be helpful, but their efficacy varies with individuals. People are, therefore, turning towards a holistic approach to treatment with various foods and herbs.
Food and herbs are natural ways to ease chronic pain. Although researchers are still trying to explore them as options, some evidence suggests their usefulness in managing pain. In this article, let’s learn about a few such alternative options with scientific backing.
- Turmeric
The pain-relief property of turmeric is the result of the abundant presence of the ingredient Curcumin. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects can encourage healing. It can regulate the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, post-operation inflammation, Crohn’s disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and muscle and joint pain.
Turmeric is a versatile food. You can add it during cooking other foods, drink with milk and water, or apply it to the skin. In each case, it will ease the pain from bruises, strains, or sprains. With the permission of the doctor, you can even try turmeric supplements for faster recovery.
- Ginger
People have been using these root stalks for food seasoning and herbal medicine for centuries. As per reports, ginger can control nausea and soothe stomach problems. Using fresh-peeled or powdered ginger in the food and beverages of your choice can alleviate arthritic joint pain and menstrual cramps. You can apply ginger cream or oil to work on inflammation and muscle pain due to exercise-induced injury. The right amount of ginger is as effective as any other over-the-counter drugs for killing pain, including migraines.
- Tart Cherries
Tart Cherries are well-known for treating gout and joint pains. Research also suggests that free radicals and flavonoids present in cherries can control cytokines, decrease DNA degradation, and inhibit certain enzymes that increase inflammation. Many of these biological processes can help reduce inflammation and pain. This study has also found that regular intake of tart cherry juice can treat arthritic and neuropathic pain without any adverse effects.
- Lavender
Lavender oil is effective in treating stress, anxiety, and depression. However, studies have found that its antioxidant, pain-killing, and anti-inflammatory properties can have several therapeutic benefits. One of the significant advantages includes the reduction of menstrual pain. Regular aromatherapy with lavender oil is found to be the safest way to reduce menstrual pain. The sedating effect of Lavender essential oils is also helpful in relaxing muscles. With prolonged use, it may relieve migraines, backaches, and pain associated with surgeries.
- Cannabis
Medical Marijuana is increasingly popular for relieving pain. It acts as a natural alternative to pain-relieving medicines like opioids. Numerous studies have supported the positive effect of cannabis in various nociceptive and neuropathic pain. Whether it is spasticity in multiple sclerosis or cancer-associated pain, cannabis can alleviate pain and improve life.
The pain-relieving quality of marijuana depends on the interaction of its cannabinoids with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Cannabidiol or CBD is one of the cannabinoids that influence the endocannabinoids without impairing a person’s functioning. It increases the levels of anandamide in the body to reduce the feeling of pain. Regular consumption of CBD Edibles and oils can limit inflammation and benefit people suffering from chronic pain.
- Peppermint
This hybrid plant is used as a flavoring agent in soaps, toothpaste, mouthwashes, and many edible products. But only fewer people know that peppermint has a plethora of health benefits. Peppermint can ease various symptoms of IBS. It can calm stomach muscles, reduce the intensity of spasms and lower the associated pain. One can use its leaves and oils to treat abdominal pain in patients with diarrhea in IBS. Topical application of peppermint oil can also treat headaches and migraines and relieve colon spasms during specific x-ray imaging tests.
- Rosemary
This culinary herb is also famous for its health advantages. Like lavender, it possesses antioxidant, antispasmodic, and muscle relaxing properties. Regular use of fresh or dried Rosemary or essential oil is beneficial in treating various opium withdrawal symptoms. It can interact with the opioid receptors in the brain to moderate muscle and bone pain. Even in people undergoing dialysis, this herb can reduce musculoskeletal pain. Topical administration of rosemary oil can reduce the severeness and frequency of pain.
Conclusion
Food and herbs are a part of a clean diet. Apart from imparting a healthy body, these sources can eradicate many ailments, including inflammation and pain. Natural pain-relievers are safe and effective for long-term use to manage pain. However, it’s always advisable to consult a medical practitioner before adding them to your diet. Remember, the regular intake of the right amount of food and herbs can help maintain overall health and wellness.