A multitude of people turn to ibuprofen daily due to pain, swelling/inflammation, and fever.
This class of over-the-counter (and occasionally prescription) medication known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is most often used to treat:
Chronic Inflammatory Aliments (long-term/develop over a period of time) such as:
- arthritis/joint disorders
- typical aches and pains
Acute Inflammatory Conditions (short-term/come on quickly) such as:
- menstrual cramps
- minor wounds
- muscle sprains or strains
- insect bites and stings
- bumps and bruises
As Philip Fritchey, in his book Practical Herbalism: Ordinary Plants with Extraordinary Powers, writes:
Inflammation is very often a defense or repair function, and as such it should be aided, not suppressed, until the cause is removed…Once the cause has been addressed, the inflammatory response may be mitigated by the use of [herbal] anti-inflammatories.
Nevertheless, use of synthetic NSAIDs — most frequently used to mask the pain — are of astronomical proportions! The FDA — in preparation for a 2002 Nonprescription Drugs Advisory Committee (NDAC) meeting — came to the conclusion, based on market data, that in the year 2001:
…approximately 14.5 billion tablets of OTC single-ingredient aspirin, 12.7 billion tablets of OTC single-ingredient adult ibuprofen, 2.8 billion tablets of OTC adult naproxen sodium and 55 million tablets of OTC adult ketoprofen were purchased.
And what’s more…it is most likely safe to assume these numbers have risen over the past 10-12 years!
IBUPROFEN :: THE SIDE EFFECTS
Although the general population is quickly learning the negative effects of ibuprofen use — there are those still unaware, and/or those who feel they have no other alternatives.
The consumption of ibuprofen (NSAIDs) has been associated with an increased risk for:
- cardiovascular issues :: including stroke and heart attack
- gastrointestinal problems :: including bleeding, ulceration, or perforation of the lining of the stomach and/or digestive tract.
There are a multitude of factors that regulate the effects of the drug — length of drug use, age of the individual, strength of the immune system, poly pharmacy (combination drug use), etc.
AN ALL-NATURAL HERBAL ALTERNATIVE
Effective, safe, and inexpensive, medicinal herbs have been used for centuries to naturally fortify the body against inflammatory conditions.
Various medicinal actions of herbs — primarily that of the anodynes (pain killers) and anti-inflammatories — can be used as alternatives to ibuprofen.
And the best news…they generally have little to no side effects! Working hard to preserve and support a healthy inflammatory response from the body!
Today I’d like to share my recipe for an all-natural, herbal alternative to ibuprofen…one you can make in the comfort of your own kitchen!
*Please Note: You should always consult a professional health-care provider prior to using any herbal supplements.
HERBAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY CAPSULES
- 2 parts meadowsweet powder
- 2 parts devil’s claw powder
- 1 part turmeric root powder
- 1/2 part kava kava powder
- 1/4 part hop flowers, powdered
- 1/4 part bladderwrack seaweed powder, optional but a good source for omega-3 fatty acids
*Parts are to be measured by volume not weight.
- In a non-reactive bowl, mix all of the herbal powders together until well combined.
- With the use of The Capsule Machine, fill as many capsules as you think your family will use within a 6-12 month period. Note: Don’t have a Capsule Machine? It’s okay…simply scoop the powder into each piece of the capsule and pack it tight prior to recapping the ends.
- Store the capsules in a small glass mason jar and place the lid on tight. Keep in a cool, dark, dry place. These capsules should stay fresh for 6-12 months.
*Not for children, adult use only. Do not take these capsules if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Don’t use if you have asthma or if you are allergic to aspirin.
To use for acute conditions: Take 1-2 caps every 2 hr., but no more than 8 caps daily.
To use for chronic ailments: Take 2-3 caps 2-3 times daily, but no more than 6 caps daily.
For improved reduction in pain associated with inflammation consider adding these vitamins and minerals to your daily diet:
- Magnesium. Magnesium is a powerful treatment for both muscle and nerve pain. In fact, magnesium deficiency is a common cause of pain and inflammation…therefore, supplementing with it can help significantly improve the body’s response. Note: There are many quality magnesium supplements, lotions, and sprays. This is the oral supplement we take daily…
- Vitamin D. In similar respect to magnesium…vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a multitude of illnesses, including pain and inflammation. Note: We supplement daily with vitamin D — not-to-mention, our farm chores keep us regularly exposed to natural sunlight!
- Omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids have proven anti-inflammatory properties that are known to be beneficial for those who suffer from inflammatory disorders. Note: We like to supplement with Green Pasture’s Blue Ice Fermented COD Liver Oil and Green Pastures X-Factor Gold High-vitamin Butter Oil Non-gelatin Capsules.
WHERE CAN I GET THIS STUFF?
-Mountain Rose Herbs…they have everything you’ll need! It’s your one-stop shop.