What is your first move when you feel a looming headache?
If your answer is to reach for the medicine cabinet, you are not alone. Even the United States’ own Department of Medicine has concluded that the use of over-the-counter painkillers is constantly taken inappropriately and too frequently.
Users are generally unaware of the potential for adverse side effects.
A quick internet query will show you that the side effects of aspirin are not something to take lightly and include:
- Stroke caused by a burst blood vessel.
- Gastrointestinal pain and even bleeding.
- Ringing in the ears and/or hearing loss.
And those don’t even cover half of the potential side effects affiliated with aspirin when mixed with many of the commonly prescribed medications taken by thousands of Americans each and every day.
You may be asking yourself what alternative do I have to relieve pain?
The truth is there are hundreds of natural ways to relieve pain in all its annoying forms, it’s just a matter of investing the time in learning which does what. That’s where I come in!
Here is a list of 8 herbs that have worked for me and many others to relieve all kinds of aches and pains in the body as well as details on how to use each of them:
1. Feverfew
Remember that headache that had you reaching for the medicine cabinet? Feverfew is known to reduce both the intensity and frequency of headaches when taken regularly as a supplement. You can find it in capsule form at most health food stores or if you are lucky enough to acquire the fresh leafs, you can make a tea from it which works just as well.
2. Arnica
This pretty yellow flower contains helenin and other anti-inflammatory elements which are excellent for osteoarthritic pain in the joints. You can find it in both cream form and capsules.
3. Boswellia
Similar to arnica, boswellia works well on joint pain caused from injuries. The analgesic acids combined with anti-inflammatory properties can speed recovery and ease the tension. Boswellia is available in capsules which you can take up to three times a day for 2 to 3 months following an injury.
4. Clove Oil
This essential oil has long been used for its numbing qualities and works wonders on tooth pain. Simply apply a drop or two directly to your problem area and let nature fight for you!
5. Fennel
Many women struggle with severe menstrual pain which fennel is especially suited to relieve. With 16 analgesic and 27 antispasmodic chemicals, fennel makes a pleasant and calming licorice flavored tea that will soothe tense muscles.
6. Ginger Root
Known as a hot herb, ginger root is a powerful digestive aid and can calm just about any stomach cramp. It is so powerful it has been attributed to relieving mild pain from fibromyalgia. You can find it in capsule form or fresh in your local grocer.
7. Licorice Root
With 9 anesthetic compounds, licorice root is exceptionally good at soothing a sore throat.
8. Oregano
Oregano and its oil should be a daily supplement regardless of pain. With 32 anti-inflammatories and a host of antispasmodic properties, this herb can relax tense muscles and stave off painful bacterial infections.
Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16265706





