Tips for Using Herbs to Manage Pain
The next time you’re experiencing pain, consider using herbal remedies to manage the discomfort instead of heading to the nearest pharmacy for over the counter medicine. Advil or aspirin may seem to be the easy cure in the moment but they have long term consequences. As we age, the side effects of painkillers only become worse. Seen more commonly among older adults, pain killers can cause life-threatening ulcers, internal bleeding and increase the risk for heart attacks or strokes. Pain relievers such as Advil, can also spike blood pressure and cause kidney problems. However, solutions found in nature heal the body for positive and long term results, rather than being just a “quick fix.” Herbal supplements can be taken in capsule form, powders or in tea. Here are tips on how to use plants for medicine to effectively manage various types of pain and discomfort.
1. Dealing with a Headache - Willow’s Bark
Headaches can be painful and annoying, making it difficult to concentrate and do even the simplest of tasks. For centuries, willow’s bark has been used to reduce inflammation and fevers. The plant contains the compound salicin, which is similar to the chemicals in aspirin, making it effective substitution. Along with salicin, researchers have found additional polyphenols and flavonoids in the plant that possess antioxidants, fever-reducing and antiseptic elements.
2. Nausea - Ginger
Ginger is a well-known and popular solution for nausea because it truly works. The root contains gingerol which increases gastric activity. This compound helps stimulate enzymes in the intestines to pass toxins, bacteria or food build-up that may be causing nausea. Ginger is an ingredient in the Qi Alchemy Pearls. Similarly, agastaches is also an herb found in the Qi Alchemy Pearls that helps ease nausea.
3. Common Cold Symptoms - Angelica Dahurica
During cold and flu season, it is wise to find tea and supplements containing angelica dahurica or angelica root. Angelica dahurica is used to treat colds, headaches, dizziness and nasal congestion. The herb has also been used for centuries in traditional medicine to help heal bacterial infections, as possesses antibacterial properties.
4. Inflammation and Arthritis - Turmeric
Labeled a “superfood,” turmeric lives up to its reputation. Turmeric is most widely known to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the joints and for those with arthritis. The spice fights inflammation by blocking cytokines and enzymes that cause swelling. In a clinical trial,100 patients with knee osteoarthritis reported having less pain and improved mobility after taking a tumeric supplement. The patients claimed the turmeric supplement had long-term benefits.
As a reminder, it’s important to do your research on herbal supplement manufacturers and where you are purchasing herbal remedies. The FDA monitors herbal supplements labeled as dietary supplements, to ensure companies meet specific standards. On every label the FDA requires the name and address of the manufacturer, the name of the product, the entire list of ingredients and the amount of the product or supplement in each package. It is the law for herbal supplements to have accurate labels, so look for appropriate FDA labelling.
Written by Grace Maeda