Natural Pain Relief Tips

• Herbs and foods can play a big role in natural pain relief.
• Natural pain relief may come in many ways, and what works best on you may not work as well on another person.

There are many natural cures for pain, and these can include mechanical methods, herbs, foods, and other pain relief options. Many of us do not want to rely on prescription and pharmaceutical pain relief products, because of the side effects and risks involved. When we have chronic or severe pain, we do want relief as fast as possible though, and natural pain relief treatments can help with this whether or not we use OTC pain relievers. Ice and heat have long been used to help control pain, and many times this therapy is under-utilized which is unfortunate as both methods can be quite beneficial. Soaking in a tub full of hot water can help relieve many aches and pains by improving circulation, and it helps to relax you as well. Pain in joints and muscles caused by swelling and inflammation can be relieved by applying ice packs regularly to the painful areas. Ice therapy is actually as important as oral pain medication in cases of injury.

Herbs can play a big part in natural pain relief. Capsaicin found in red pepper can help relieve pain from arthritis and other joint disorders, as well as other types of pain. Capsaicin helps block pain signals when used on a regular basis. These plants can be taken as a supplement in pill form, or they can be added to a topical ointment that is used on your affected body areas. If you have suffered a burn that is causing pain, break off the leaf of an aloe vera plant and rub the sap on the burned skin, and you will be amazed at the cooling and soothing sensation that takes place almost instantly. Aloe also helps to stimulate collagen synthesis for healing. Turmeric is a spice that can be very effective in joint pain relief. It contains a strong anti-oxidant named curcumin that has anti-inflammatory abilities. You can either add turmeric to your food in moderate amounts, take a supplement in a capsule form, or use a plaster that contains the spice on the joints that are painful. Using the plaster method will also help you greatly reduce any swelling in the joint.

Foods can also play a part in natural pain relief. There are some foods, such as tart cherries, that have certain compounds which reduce inflammation and lessen pain and can be eaten every day. Tart cherry is an old folk remedy for gout. Fish can also help prevent pain, because the Omega-3 oils in certain cold water fish help to mediate prostaglandins in the body, chemicals that control inflammation . One very effective natural pain reliever is clove oil if you are suffering from a toothache. Apply the clove oil directly to the gums where you are experiencing pain. Topical Emu oil has been know to help relieve joint pain. Menthol oil, camphor oil, and wintergreen oil are all known anodynes, or pain relievers when used topically. They also create a cooling sensation when they come in contact with the skin which helps to create an immediate sensation of relief

Natural pain relief may come in many ways, and what works best on you may not work as well on another person. Because of this, it may be necessary for you to try many different methods and treatments before you get effective pain relief. Lifestyle can also play an important part in managing pain. Make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. During sleep your body heals and recharges, and not getting enough sleep can short circuit this effect and create more pain. Make sure that you get enough exercise as well. Some pain may be caused by weak muscle, so staying in shape will help minimize these pains caused by structural imbalance. This includes back pain, which many people don’t realize can be affected by poor posture and weak stomach muscle tone. Drink plenty of water and other fluids, because when your body becomes dehydrated, pain messages can become worse. In addition, water is necessary for your body to operate efficiently and recover from any stress or injury. There are also alternative treatments for pain, such as acupuncture, ultrasound therapy, and many others, that can help to relieve your pain effectively, letting you take control again. Using OTC pain relievers occasionally is okay, but should not become habitual. With this in mind however, there is no need to let pain rule your life because of a concern for overuse of drugs. Natural cures for pain relief are abundant and should be used as much as possible to restore and maintain a full quality of life.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.