Pain Management: Best Herbal Supplements to Treat Chronic Pain

Contents

Turmeric

Ginger

Devil’s Claw

Willow Bark

Boswellia

From Pain to Glory

Are you considering natural pain relief remedies as an alternative to pharmaceutical medication? For centuries, people have used herbal supplements to manage different health conditions, including chronic pain.

Finding a suitable method to manage this condition can be life-changing. Many have experienced success when using homeopathic medications that include high-quality products. 

If you’re unsure which remedy to use, continue reading for some of the most effective natural substances for chronic pain relief.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Individuals with chronic pain can reportedly benefit from using this herbal supplement. 

One study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that turmeric extract was as effective as ibuprofen for lowering pain in people with knee osteoarthritis. 

If you decide on this natural analgesic, consume an above-average dose, as the body doesn’t easily absorb turmeric. There are various ways to ingest it, like adding it to your food. Combining it with black pepper enhances its absorption. 

Pregnant women should first consult their medical practitioner before ingesting turmeric for pain.

Ginger

Ginger is another spice that has been around for a very long time. It contains several compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which are said to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. 

Not only is ginger a great herbal pain relief option, but it’s also known to boost your immune system. Several studies have shown this fleshy plant can reduce inflammation, gastrointestinal function, nausea, and vomiting. 

One study published in the Journal of Pain found that taking a ginger supplement for 11 days reduced muscle pain by 25%. Consuming this plant root is relatively safe unless you’re allergic to it. You can ingest this natural substance as a capsule, tincture, powder, or oil.

Use ginger to enrich both sweet and savory dishes. You can also simmer it in water for ten minutes and enjoy it as a drink to ease the pain.

Devil’s Claw

Devil’s claw is an herb native to southern Africa. It made its way to Europe during the 1900s. Here, they dried the roots and used them as medicine to treat pain, relieve heartburn, and restore appetites.

Devil’s claw contains several compounds, including harpagoside, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Those who have used devil’s claw believe it brings homeopathic pain relief. 

Always consult your health professional before you begin any herbal treatment. Some side effects associated with this herb include nausea, diarrhea, stomach aches, and dizziness. This usually occurs after 12 weeks of consistent use.

Willow Bark

Willow bark comes from various versions of these species. They grow all over the world, except in Antarctica and Australia. The popular ones are the white and black, often used for holistic pain relief.

Willow bark is made up of a compound called salicin, which is similar to aspirin. Salicin has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Individuals typically use it for chronic headaches or back pain. When combined with other substances, it may also assist with weight loss.

Salicin converts to salicylic acid, a safer option for your stomach than aspirin. This herb is available in drugstores as a capsule or at health shops as a tea or a distilled tincture. You can also find willow bark as a topical for natural pain relief if you have a sensitive stomach.

As with other herbal remedies, when taken in large quantities and for a prolonged period, you may experience unpleasant side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach. Overdosing can lead to inflammation of your stomach or kidneys.

Boswellia

Boswellia is an extract from a tree with the same name. The resin retrieved from this woody plant has been used for medicinal purposes for many years in Asia and Africa. It’s part of the Ayurvedic medicine system practiced in India and Nepal. 

Studies have shown that this herb, also known as Indian Frankincense, is a safe option for treating osteoarthritis and easing pain. In addition, many have used it for relieving symptoms of asthma, easing arthritis pain, general inflammation, reduction of brain swelling, and many more.

Boswellia may negatively interact with other medications. To avoid this, first discuss your treatment with a medical professional. Find it as a cream, a pill, or resin.

Kratom

The leaf of the kratom tree is another herbal supplement used in treating and alleviating the symptoms of certain ailments, including chronic pain. The alkaloids present in kratom interact with the opioid receptors in the brain to potentially ease the perception of pain.

One of the compounds in this herb is 13 times stronger than morphine. However, it’s an atypical opioid. Depending on the dosage or type of kratom, it may have sedative effects or cause you to feel energized and alert.

Side effects may include dizziness, sweating, dry mouth, hallucinations, and others. You can consume kratom for pain by chewing the leaves, crushing them, and making tea. They’re also available in powder form, capsules, and gummies.

From Pain to Glory

Living with chronic pain can be debilitating. Prescription medication could adversely affect you when used over a long period. Some may even become addictive, resulting in a new health concern.

Herbal supplements are nature’s way of nursing you back to health. Although these natural products have some side effects, the long-term impact is less severe. With regular doses for a limited time and certain lifestyle changes, you may find yourself moving from pain to glory.