Many people struggle with pain, which can be caused by many different things. Pain can be triggered by arthritis or other inflammation caused by an injury or infection. The pain and inflammation can also go away, leading to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or cancer. However, there are herbs that can also act as excellent natural painkillers.
One such herb is white willow bark. White willow bark contains an aspirin-like compound, salicin, which has been used for centuries to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Research shows that this herb is as effective as strong painkillers for hip and knee pain, for example. The herb can also be used for back pain, lower back pain, and arthritis to help relieve pain. White willow bark can cause stomach upset, affect kidney function and increase the risk of bleeding.
Ayurveda has been using the herb frankincense for centuries to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in patients with arthritis.
Devil’s claw is a South African herb that can be very effective for arthritis, tendonitis, back pain and other aches and pains. An eight-week study involved hundreds of people with rheumatic pain. It was found that after two months, the herb devil’s claw relieved the rheumatic symptoms of all the subjects.
The pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can reduce the levels of inflammatory prostaglandins in the body. This fruit can be very useful for patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders or arthritis, but it also promotes healing in connective tissues and muscles.
Turmeric is an Ayurvedic spice that also helps to relieve pain in the joints. Its bioactive compound is curcumin, an antioxidant compound that effectively fights inflammation-causing cytokines. Curcumin reduces pain in autoimmune patients.
Ginger also relieves inflammation and pain. In many cases it is much more effective than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.