Pain is a feeling that all of us would want to avoid, but often end up experiencing. Be it in the form of a headache, period pain, muscle ache or joint inflammation, an ache never leaves our side for too long a time.
The method that most of us follow to get rid of a pain is to pop an over-the-counter (OTC) painkiller into our mouth. While OTC medicines are effective in treating pain, they are also associated with a number of side effects, especially if used regularly or on a long-term basis.
Though many of us are unaware of this fact, there are a number of natural pain killers that can help relieve aches, without presenting the danger of side effects. In the following lines, we have listed some of the most effective natural remedies for pain, including the herbal ones.
Natural Pain Killers
Boswellia
Boswellia is the name of an Indian herb that has been found to be effective in treating the pain occurring from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Boswellic acids, the active constituents in boswellia, are responsible for bringing relief from the ache. This particular herb is available in the form of supplements as well as topically-applied creams.
Devil’s Claw
Devil’s claw, scientifically known as Harpagophytum procumbens, is also an herb that is believed to relieve pain associated with arthritis. Apart from that, it has been seen that the herb helps reduce pain intensity, muscle spasms and muscle tenderness. Native to South Africa, Devil’s claw contains chemicals called iridoid glycosides and has been found to be effective in lower back pain as well.
White Willow
A supplement of white willow bark has been found to provide the pain-relieving effects that result from the use of aspirin, without the latter’s side effects.Though there are no major negative effects associated with white willow, people with peptic ulcers or gastritis are advised against using it.
Feverfew
Feverfew, an herb, has been in use as a remedy for inflammation and period pains since the time of the ancient Greeks.Studies have indicated that the herb reduces the frequency, severity and duration of migraine headaches, if consumed over a long period of time. Still, it cannot be taken as an effective treatment for an acute migraine attack.
MSM
MSM (methyl-sulphonyl-methane) is the term used in reference to the naturally-occurring sulphur compound, like that found in sulphurous springs.The compound has been known to benefit aching joints. It is available in the form of dietary supplement as well as creams, for topical application.