Today, natural treatments and complementary therapies are replacing pharmaceutical medicine due to their minimal side effects. Many people now seek natural pain relief options to manage physical trauma or various medical conditions. However, not every home remedy is beneficial, as many of them are myths.
You need to pick those backed by scientific evidence to avoid risk factors. So, what are suitable therapies to tackle pain in routine? Here, you can get insight into some natural science-backed alternatives to painkillers, enabling you to lead an active life.
Best Ways to Manage Daily Pain Without Medicine
Painkillers are effective because they numb the affected area, but they don't treat the root cause. Moreover, the long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can result in kidney, heart, or stomach issues. If you want to avoid all these risk factors, then you should go for home remedies for discomfort, which are the following:
1. Olive Oil Massage
For physical discomfort, olive oil has therapeutic properties to treat acute pain. According to a study, it is effective for reducing pain sensation after a physical trauma. With its massage in a circular motion, blood flow improves, allowing the affected area to receive more nutrients.
You also experience quick healing and muscle relaxation after the massage. Athletes who experience muscle soreness after a workout can get instant relief. Likewise, patients with joint problems, such as arthritis, can reduce mobility issues with virgin olive oil due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Pain-Relief Patches
CBD patches are natural topicals for pain relief, particularly for physical discomfort. Cannabidiol is effective in relieving symptoms of issues like arthritis and neuropathic pain. After application, it is quickly absorbed into the skin tissues and reduces pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
However, the quality of the product greatly influences its therapeutic effects. Always look for brands that offer patches with high-quality hemp-sourced CBD, free from psychoactive effects. Moreover, the legal status of different cannabis-based products is still a question in various regions worldwide. Before buying, get insight into local laws and regulations to avoid serious consequences.
3. Turmeric Supplements
Turmeric is a rich source of curcumin, which is an antioxidant with pain-relieving properties. According to a study, it is effective in tackling pathological pain, which is a chronic condition caused by damaged nerves. The persistent pain adversely affects daily life, requiring the use of painkillers for too long.
However, with supplements containing a high amount of curcumin, pain management is possible. But how much is a sufficient dosage without any side effects? Consult your medical health provider based on your medical condition.
4. Acupuncture
People with back or knee pain can benefit from acupuncture, a traditional Chinese pain management therapy. Thin needles are inserted into the body at specific points for stimulation. With needle insertion, endorphins, natural pain relief chemicals, are produced by the brain.
However, to use this strategy effectively, always hire a professional and experienced acupuncturist to avoid bleeding or bruising.
5. Ginger Tea
Ginger has been part of folk medicine for centuries and is now under study for more evidence of its therapeutic effects. According to a study, regular consumption of ginger tea is effective in reducing menstrual pain in women.
Moreover, it also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it is effective for conditions where pain is linked with inflammation, like arthritis, myositis, scleroderma, or lupus vasculitis. However, consistency is essential to use this remedy for pain management.
Bottom Line
Pain is an inevitable part of life, whether it is triggered by a strenuous workout, an infection, an injury, or any other reason. All the above-mentioned non-drug pain management strategies are effective in relieving pain to perform everyday activities smoothly.
There are numerous options as well, like cold or hot compresses, meditation, warm shower, etc. You need to determine what works best for your condition without any side effects.