Natural Pain Relievers

Pain is the unpleasant sensation associated with physical injury and several medical conditions. Pain is a complicated process governed by a number of chemicals or neurotransmitters, which are responsible for carrying pain signals to the brain. However, our bodies also produce several other chemicals that can be termed as natural painkillers. Serotonin, norepinephrine, endorphins and enkephalins are some of the natural chemicals and neurotransmitters synthesized by our body that can work like analgesics or painkillers.

Natural Pain Relievers

Aspirin is the one of the most common painkillers that people usually take to get relief from pain. Painkillers like aspirin work by reducing the level of pain-producing chemicals that are found in our body. The same purpose can be achieved by using some herbs that can work excellently to reduce pain and inflammation without the side effects that are commonly associated with long term use of painkillers. Here are some common herbal medicines that have been used for a long time to ease the pain and inflammation associated with several medical conditions.

Spearmint Oil
Spearmint is a herb of the mint family that is known for its medicinal properties. Spearmint oil is commonly used as a flavoring agent in confectionery, toothpaste, chewing gums and other pharmaceutical products. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, for which this herb has been in use for alleviating a number of ailments including fever, bronchitis, headache, and nasal congestion. Spearmint oil has strong anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, and hence can be used for relieving pain as well.

Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is highly valued for its analgesic, sedative, and anti-spasmodic properties. It can ease pain and inflammation by stimulating blood and oxygen flow to the affected areas. It is more commonly used to relieve headaches, as well as muscle and joint pain. Apart from providing relief in pain, this oil is widely used to treat respiratory problems, fever, diabetes, dental problems and skin care.

Peppermint Oil
Peppermint is another herb that belongs to the mint family. It is quite popular as a flavoring agent in confectionery, ice cream, and toothpaste. Peppermint is one of the oldest herbs to be used for medicinal purposes. Like spearmint oil, peppermint oil also has anti-spasmodic and analgesic properties, and so can act as an effective natural pain reliever. It can be used to relieve abdominal cramps, headaches, and menstrual cramps. Apart from these, it is also used for alleviating conditions like indigestion, vomiting, nausea, nasal congestion, etc.

Meadowsweet
The meadowsweet plant is quite popular among herbalists as a natural painkiller that can work just like aspirin to reduce pain, but without irritating the stomach. Studies have revealed that meadowsweet can protect the stomach from ulcers and irritation and therefore, it is sometimes recommended for stomach ulcers. But, before taking any kind of herbal medicine, it is better to take the advice of a health care professional.

Ginger
Ginger is a common herb that can be used to ease both pain and inflammation. Ginger oil can provide substantial relief in painful arthritis and can improve blood circulation of the inflamed areas. Several studies have pointed out its effectiveness for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief. It can also alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis without any serious side effects.

Wintergreen Oil
Wintergreen oil is a natural analgesic that is most commonly used for joint and muscle pain. It has been approved by FDA (Food and Drug Administration) as an over-the-counter analgesic for external application. Like ginger, wintergreen oil has also shown efficacy in relieving arthritis pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

These natural pain relievers can help to ease muscle and joint pain, stomach cramps, headaches, and even painful arthritis. Their external use is quite safe and is not associated with any major side effects. But consumption of certain herbs may be associated with side effects, especially in the long run, for which it is not advisable to ingest them without consulting a herbalist or health care professional. Apart from these natural oils, sometimes application of heat on the affected area can provide quick relief in mild to moderate pain. Heat application stimulates blood circulation and increases the flow of oxygen to the damaged area. Similarly, applying ice on the affected area can also be helpful in reducing inflammation and pain, as it works like a local anesthetic.