Feeling pain is a relevant and common part of life, regardless of age. Pain can remind us that we are indeed alive and able to experience a wide variety of feelings and sensations. Healthy levels of pain occur after exercise and physical exertion, dancing, and so many more of life’s gifts. Pain medication has become an overly popular go to for the least little ache or discomfort, and can wreak absolute havoc on the body if overused. Conditions and symptoms like constipation, stomach ulcers, kidney damage, blood clots, brain damage, and so much more are very possible and probably for many that take these under the assumption of safety via availability. Pain relievers are absolutely viable resources in many situations, generally in acute scenarios for acute pain. Most are not meant to be used for long periods of time, as there is clearly a deeper root cause if pain is long lasting. Let’s take a look at a few natural alternatives to pharmaceutical options:
1.Willow bark. Willow trees grow nearly all over the world, so is readily available in nature to most of the global population. It provides reliable pain relief, and in a safe manner that the body can absorb and process easily. Taken in moderation, there are generally no downsides to taking willow bark as a pain reliever. As with anything, taking too much can bring about a few unsavory side effects. Willow bark benefits include bringing down fever, relieving menstrual cramps and lower back pain, and relatively low side effects. Nicknamed nature’s aspirin, willow bark shouldn’t be consumed by anyone allergic to aspirin, and it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before making changes to a health care regime.
2. Turmeric. Turmeric is an ancient solution for many ailments, preventions and conditions. It’s a root, orange in color, and easy to use in a wide variety of dishes, drinks, teas, smoothies and applications due to its mild flavor and ease of consumption and availability. It can be found in mustard, which is actually what gives mustard its yellow hue! Turmeric is best absorbed by the body when combined with the oil of black pepper. Turmeric has a plethora of benefits and very few side effects, making it another great option for a natural painkiller. Other benefits and outcomes of using turmeric medicinally are prevention and reversal of cancer, psoriasis, ulcers and other inflammatory conditions.
3. Temperature changes. Alternating applying heat and cold to a location that is in pain, such as a sprained ankle or a sore shoulder, can provide swift relief and is easily accessible, in most scenarios. Pain is how our body communicates that something is not quite right, so this should be kept in mind when applying heat and ice, and consulting a physician is always advised before self-treating. Alternating hot and cold can enable faster recovery of acute injuries, but shouldn’t be used long term. If the pain persists long term, it’s best to seek medical attention and advice, and get to the root of the cause.
With all health related symptoms and conditions, it’s best to consult with your physician, but it’s also widely known that self-treating is a common practice by millions. Educating yourself on the options at your reach can empower your healing abilities, for yourself and for others. Remember, pain is your body’s way of communicating something isn’t quite right, so listen to what it’s telling you and seek medical attention if the pain persists.
