If you live with chronic pain you may never be able to dispense with prescription painkillers altogether. But adding in some natural pain killing herbs may allow you to reduce the quantity of prescription painkillers you need. The beauty of these time-tested herbal painkillers is that you can take all of them at once, without risking harm!
Turmeric with Black Pepper for Curcumin
Turmeric, a bright yellow spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Adding black pepper, which contains piperine, increases the bioavailability of curcumin. This allows it to be absorbed better and improves its power to reduce pain and inflammation. Add turmeric and black pepper to your dishes or consider taking a turmeric supplement with a pinch of black pepper for maximum benefit.
Raisins Soaked in Gin for Resveratrol
Resveratrol, a compound found in grapes and red wine, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties. You can buy resveratrol supplements in capsule form, but it’s a lot more delicious to make it yourself!
Raisins soaked in gin are a traditional remedy for arthritis pain, going back to medieval times. The gin helps extract the resveratrol from the raisins. Simply fill a jar with raisins and cover them in gin. They reach full potency after three days. Eat a teaspoonful twice a day to experience pain relief.
Quercetin from fruits
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in various fruits, vegetables, and herbs, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies suggest that quercetin may help alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis and allergies. Incorporate quercetin-rich foods like onions, apples, berries, and capers into your diet to reap its pain-relieving benefits. Since we don’t absorb much of the quercetin we eat in foods, you can get greater benefit from taking it in the form of capsules which have a higher amount and which extract the active quercetin to make it easier to absorb.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids from oily fish
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Consider adding omega-3-rich foods to your diet or taking a fish oil supplement to support joint health and relieve pain.
Ginger
Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Studies have shown that ginger may help reduce pain and improve mobility in individuals with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Enjoy ginger tea, add fresh ginger to your meals, or eat preserved ginger as a snack to experience its pain-relieving benefits.
Green Tea
Green tea contains polyphenols, antioxidants that have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate pain associated with conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Enjoy a cup of green tea daily or try green tea extract supplements to support pain management and overall health.
Conclusion
Traditional botanical remedies offer natural alternatives to conventional pain medications, providing relief from pain and inflammation without the potential side effects. From turmeric and ginger to omega-3 fatty acids and green tea, incorporating these botanicals into your diet and lifestyle may help reduce pain and improve overall well-being. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.
