Over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are useful in helping you to manage pain. However, long-term use can cause some side effects. Prescription medications may be addictive and have even more effects. If you are suffering from pain, however, you may be eager to find ways that don’t involve medication to help you to cope.
For hundreds of years, people have been using essential oils, herbs, and alternative therapies as natural pain relievers.
Researchers have not investigated these alternatives thoroughly, but there is some evidence that some natural remedies can help, and many people find them useful. Here, we look at a few of them.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil could naturally help to relieve pain. People are using lavender oil to alleviate pain, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety.
A 2012 small-scale study found that inhaling lavender oil can ease migraine-related headache pain compared to a form of placebo medication.
Some literature also shows that the effects of lavender oil on animals are pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant.
It is important not to ingest essential oils, as they can be toxic. If you are applying an oil topically, you should always dilute it in a carrier oil.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that many fans believe can help reduce pain. There is research to support these beliefs.
It is thought that acupuncture can help with certain types of pain, including:
- lower back pain
- neck pain
- knee pain
It may also reduce how often people get headaches caused by tension and could help prevent migraine headaches.
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has progressively gained popularity as a natural alternative to pain relief for many people experiencing chronic pain. For the treatment of chronic disorders such as arthritis and back pain, cannabidiol is a compound found in the marijuana plant. Details relating to all of the benefits of CBD have been published in articles such as in The New York Observer.
CBG is thought to be it’s even better big brother. The Benefits of CBG include helping with anti-inflammation, gut health, moods, and many other things.
Yoga
Yoga has long been hailed as a wonder-treatment. It’s a form of gentle exercise involving improving core strength, stretching, and relaxation methods, all known to help reduce pain, both physically and mentally. It is thought to be particularly beneficial for those suffering from lower back pain and neck pain.
It is important to remember that alternative forms of pain relief will not work for every type of pain, and for everyone, especially if the pain is more severe. Many people choose to use them alongside other forms of pain relief to enhance the effect, although this needs to be carefully done under the guidance of your healthcare professional.
Anyone experiencing severe pain, even if it is related to an existing health condition, should seek medical advice. If someone starts experiencing pain and does not know why they should also speak to their doctor who can diagnose the cause of pain and suggest the best course of treatment.
When someone takes traditional pain relief medication as prescribed by a doctor, it is a safe and effective way to manage pain. However, natural pain relievers offer an alternative for people who want to avoid some of the long-term side effects of medication.
