Pain – the chemical signal that
tells us something in our body has been damaged – is more often than
not, an unwelcome visitor. For those who experience pain every day due
to arthritis,
migraines, tendonitis, or other chronic conditions, it may be tempting
to turn to chemical pain-relievers to free yourself from the ongoing
discomfort. Before you do, take a look at this list of natural
pain-relievers from Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet.
1. Dark Cherries
According to a study
performed at the John Hopkins Pain Treatment Center, anthocyanins – a
group of bioflavonoids or plant pigments found in cherries and other
dark fruits – are effective in blocking pain signals caused by
inflammation. Enjoy a serving of 20 cherries to alleviate joint aches,
gastrointestinal discomfort, PMS symptoms, and other pain caused by
inflammation.
2. Ginger Root
Ginger root is another aspirin-mimicking anti-inflammatory. A daily supplement
of powdered ginger has been shown to lessen aches and pains from
physical exertion by suppressing the body’s production of toxic
compounds known to cause inflammation and tissue damage in the joints. A
ginger paste may be similarly effective when applied topically to sore
joints and muscles.
Chewing on a slice of fresh
ginger root is also super effective for treating stomach pain and nausea
caused by illness, as well as for preventing morning sickness during
pregnancy.
3. Cold-Water Fish
There are many health benefits
to gain by adding cold-water fish like herring, mackerel, tuna, salmon,
and sardines to your diet. Among them are abilities to fight chronic
pain from back and neck injuries and to help heal damaged joints.
Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids in cold-water fish improve
cardiovascular function and decrease inflammation around damaged
cartilage, promoting healing and overall good health.
4. Tahini
Made from ground sesame seeds,
tahini is a delicious dish which delivers a high dose of magnesium, a
mineral most people don’t get enough of. Magnesium has a long list of
amazing health benefits including the ability to fight muscle tension.
5. Turmeric
Curcumin, a natural phenol
present in turmeric root, is another natural anti-inflammatory. Add
this fragrant golden spice to your list of pain-fighting foods for a
boost of flavor and beautiful color.
6. Aloe Juice
We
all know that aloe vera gel is at the top of the list as far as
treating burns. What most people don’t know is that aloe juice is also
an excellent remedy for stomach ulcers. Caused by H. pylori bacteria,
ulcers are painful lesions in the lining of the stomach which cause
nausea, weakness from blood loss, and extreme pain. Drinking aloe juice
twice daily not only helps to relieve these symptoms, it has also been
proven to speed the healing process of this painful condition.
7. Papaya
The enzyme papain found in the
flesh of papaya fruit is another natural anti-inflammatory that works
well in conjunction with bromelain (found in pineapple juice and
stems.) Papain is often used following surgery to reduce pain and
swelling. While papaya extract may be taken as a supplement,
the fruit is also full of anti-oxidants and vitamins which support a
multitude of bodily functions. If you can find fresh papaya, enjoy it
by itself or try adding it to a smoothie, salad, or salsa.
8. Yogurt
Human intestines are home to
billions of microflora which are necessary for digestive health. When
these symbiotic organisms become unbalanced (called disbiosis,) we may
experience any number of health problems, many of which often seem
totally unrelated to the gut (painful rashes, hair loss, hormone
imbalance, etc.) Yogurt containing live and active cultures help to
repopulate and stabilize these microflora which can definitely help with
problems like IBS, excessive gas, and painful bloating.
9. Hot Peppers
Capsaicin, the chemical that
makes hot peppers hot is a common ingredient in many topical pain
relievers. Capsaicin overloads nerves, draining them of substance-P –
the chemical messenger that carries pain signals to the brain. While
only offering temporary relief, hot pepper extract is a fast and
effective pain remedy. Buy capsaicin cream at any drug store, or make your own. ***Always be sure to wear protective gloves and eye wear when handling hot peppers to prevent accidental injury.***
10. Peppermint
The menthol in peppermint is
great for preventing muscle spasms. For sore hands and feet, apply
peppermint oil to wrists and ankles. To ease a bad headache, rub
crushed peppermint leaves on your temples or brew some peppermint tea
for a muscle-relaxing treat.
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