Chronic back or joint pain knows exactly how to throw your day off course. When you’re struggling with constant pain, you may have difficulty thinking clearly or completing everyday tasks. You know this isn’t a sustainable way to live your life, but you also know that prescription pain medication can be addictive and dangerous. So, what can you do?
Alternative therapies for pain are becoming more and more popular among everyday people. Not only have folks using these remedies observed marked pain reduction, but they also benefit from avoiding the side effects and addictive qualities that come along with opioids and other prescription pills.
Bear in mind the research about the medicinal qualities of herbal remedies is still in its early stages, and you should always consult your doctor before switching your medication. Some of these remedies may be allergens for certain people, and also may not combine well with your current medication.
If you’re confident that these conflicts don’t factor into your personal health, seeking natural pain relief is a fantastic and safe way to reduce inflammation and relieve chronic pain. If you’re looking for pain relief treatment  keep reading to discover some of the more common and effective remedies and therapies people swear by.
Ginger
Believe it or not, those orange or beige ribbons you receive with your sushi have been observed to reduce joint inflammation. While more research is still required to confirm the effects, doctors believe that ginger may help with pain due to the natural active chemicals it contains. These chemicals are believed to reduce inflammation in joints and muscles, the root cause of chronic pain.
Turmeric
Similar to ginger, turmeric is revered by herbalists for its anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is the yellow colored root that’s most often used in curries and other dishes. Some believe that its content of the active ingredient curcumin explains its effectiveness. Studies indicate that curcumin can help to combat chronic pain, depression, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a byproduct of chili peppers and is most often used as a topical remedy. Some integrative medicine professionals believe that capsaicin depletes the vitamin which carries the sensation of pain to the central nervous system. Therefore, it can be useful to those suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, sprains, headaches, and even post-op pain.
Kava Kava
If you’re suffering from a migraine headache, kava kava is a remedy that many people swear by. It works by treating the symptoms of migraines such as muscle tension, soreness, and stress. However, if you’re pregnant, breast feeding, or on prescription medication, you should consult your doctor before taking kava. Kava is typically ingested in a tea or other beverage.
Ginseng
Though there is much research left to be done, ginseng has been observed to benefit people struggling from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and other chronic conditions. One study during which people were either given a placebo or a ginseng supplement showed that of those taking ginseng experienced a 39 percent reduction in pain and a 46 percent reduction in fatigue.
Remember that the word of your medical professional is sacred and should be taken into account before replacing your medication with any of these natural remedies. However, if you’re ready for natural pain relief treatment, one of these options may be the answer you’re looking for. With any luck, you’ll be able to kick your mood-altering prescription drugs to the curb. Live well!
