There are many herbs that can be used to treat various forms of pain. From inflammation to headaches, from muscle spasms to neuralgia, herbs can be used to treat almost any type of pain there is. Many of the medications we take now, such as aspirin, were originally extracted from herbs, and then standardized. (Salicylic acid, the main ingredient in aspirin, was originally extracted from white willow bark.)
In teas, capsules, decoctions, oils, or tinctures; herbs provide us with active ingredients to treat many issues, and the same herb may be used for many different conditions, depending on which extraction method is used. Water soluble chemicals in a plant may be used to treat inflammation, while alcohol extracts (tinctures) provide antibacterial or antifungal activity, and an oil extraction provides a topical treatment for skin conditions; all different compounds, used for different conditions, from the same herb. For example: Cayenne pepper, in tea or capsules, will help lower blood pressure; while an oil extraction, used externally, treats the pain of arthritis, shingles, and/or neuralgia.
Feverfew is one of the best ways to relieve pain, especially headaches, including migraine. Taken on a regular basis, it can reduce both the frequency and severity of headaches, and is available as capsules of fresh or freeze dried leaves.
Ginger has both analgesic (pain relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to treat digestive upsets and fibromyalgia pain, either dried and powdered in capsules, or fresh in tea. A tea made from approximately one teaspoon of fresh minced root can also help with the nausea associated with migraines.
Green tea contains nine muscle relaxing compounds, and can help relieve muscle pain and stiffness.
Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and is excellent for the treatment of both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, as well as other inflammatory processes. It takes a fairly large amount to be effective, so the use of capsules or standardized extracts is recommended.
Skullcap helps with pain in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments; eases anxiety, and helps with insomnia. It is frequently found in blends that include other sedative and pain relieving herbs. Skullcap must be used with care, since it can also lower blood pressure and will interact with blood pressure medications, prescription pain medications, and alcohol. These interactions can be life threatening, so you MUST do your research before using it.
Valerian has many properties that can help relieve pain. It relieves muscle spasms and cramping; reduces anxiety, nervous tension, and stress; and is used to treat headaches. It can have the same types of medication interactions as skullcap, and should be treated with respect.
About the author:
Daisy Raybould has a passion for solving health problems the way nature intended. She, along with a number of fellow natural health enthusiasts, share their tips, secrets and recipes designed to help you obtain perfect health using the power of nature’s wonders at RevitaliseYourHealth.com