There are many pain relief medications available over the counter at your local pharmacy or drugstore, but many people prefer to use alternative treatments. Although pharmaceutical medicines are usually (contraindications notwithstanding) safe to use, natural remedies are better suited to certain people and lifestyles, and others don’t feel comfortable using chemical-based medicines, at least not for non-serious conditions. If you would prefer to treat headaches, muscular pain, and other mild ailments with natural solutions, read on for Pain Relief: 7 Holistic Remedies to Try.
1. Rosemary Essential Oil
Many different essential oils can be used in pain relief and wellness remedies, but if you’re suffering from headaches, muscle pain or pains related to your bones, rosemary essential oil could help. It is said that the rosemary plant can help to reduce inflammation, which is a main cause of muscular pain. It is also thought to improve your memory, which is another useful benefit. Use the oil as a topical treatment and remember to dilute it with a carrier oil, then massage it into the area that is causing you a problem.
2. Capsaicin
This is found in chili peppers and is what creates the sensation of heat when you consume them. While you might be an individual who associates the fire of chilies as a negative, it has been proven to be an effective pain relief treatment when used in the right way. In particular, capsaicin is good for painful joints as a result of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be used for muscular aches and pains like rosemary essential oils. You can buy capsaicin creams and lotions which you simply apply to the skin over the area that is bothering you. Be careful about using it anywhere near your face and eyes though!
3. CBD Oil
The use of cannabidiol for pain relief and other medical conditions has risen in popularity over the last few years. Although it has been used by people for decades, the legalization of cannabis in several of the United States has created a boom in the production and availability of these products in mainstream markets.
There are many stores such as these Chicago dispensaries for example that sell both medicinal and recreational marijuana products. If you’re concerned about the effects of CBD oil as pain relief, you shouldn’t be. The compound THC is what causes the sensation of being ‘high’ and shouldn’t be confused with the CBD compound that these products are made from.
4. Feverfew
Traditionally, this plant has been used to reduce fevers, migraines, toothaches, and stomach aches. It is thought that feverfew contains compounds that create a numbing effect, which is what helps ease pain. However, some side effects can occur as a result of taking feverfew such as nausea, increased risk of bleeding, and abdominal pain. Take with caution or seek the advice of your doctor before you try it if you’re unsure.
5. Acupuncture
The practice of acupuncture has been applied for centuries, with its origins going back to ancient China. It is one of the oldest approaches of treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and it is because of its success at treating several conditions that it is still practiced today.
There is a broad list of ailments that acupuncture has been used to treat, including depression, muscle pain, post-operative pain, headaches and migraines, insomnia, and anxiety, to name but a few. Although the idea of having lots of tiny needles stuck in your body initially sounds horrifying, this could be the holistic pain relief remedy that you’ve been seeking. It has worked for countless people throughout history and still does today.
6. Yoga
Taking ten minutes out of your day to do a quick yoga session can tremendously help to relieve your muscular aches or problems with your joints. It helps to stretch out your body as well as strengthening your core muscles and other areas. This will help to relieve you of many pains that may be occurring due to bad posture or awkward sleeping positions. It is a great way to introduce mindfulness into your day too by combining meditation and breath work with your exercise.
7. White Willow Bark
This natural remedy contains the compound salicin, which has very similar effects to aspirin. It has been used as an effective pain relief solution since as far back as ancient Egypt. It helps to reduce inflammation and is used to help specifically with joint pain, back pain, and osteoarthritis. Its side effects are similar to synthesized aspirin, however, and include the risk of an upset stomach, interference with kidney function, and prolonged bleeding. Another one to take with caution, much like feverfew.
