Do Natural Pain Relievers Work?

Over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are not the only pain relievers you can use. Natural pain relievers such as herbal medicines where certain plant parts are utilized to manage health conditions are also popular in relieving pain. Studies on herbal remedies are still in the initial stages. However, most herbs relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Even though, you should use them cautiously to avoid allergic reactions and any possible side effects.

Common Natural Pain Relievers that Work

Individuals have utilized herbs, essential oils, and different therapies to relieve pain for many years. Research about such remedies is still ongoing. However, there is proof that natural painkillers are effective. Below are some natural pain relievers that work:

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oils are natural remedies that individuals use to relieve pain, ease anxiety and assist with sleep. According to a study in 2012, inhaling lavender oil may alleviate pain caused by migraine headaches than with a placebo. Certain studies also argue that lavender oil causes anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and inflammatory effects in animals. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not control the ingredients used in essential oils and dosages. Therefore, you should use them cautiously. You should not consume any essential oils, as they may be harmful. When applying them, you should use a carrier oil to dilute them.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

It is a herbal therapy from the eucalyptus plant used to relieve your body’s pain and inflammation. A study conducted in 2013 discovered that when eucalyptus oil is inhaled it relieves pain effectively than almond oil. The participants inhaled the eucalyptus oil for half an hour every day, and as a result, they healed from a knee replacement surgery. Eucalyptus oil can activate asthma. Therefore, you should not use it near children or pets. It would be best to mix it with a carrier oil before applying it to the affected area. Eucalyptus essential oil is also harmful if ingested.

Cloves

Most Individuals have utilized cloves from the Eugenia Carryophylatta plant as a natural remedy to alleviate pain from a toothache. In 2006, the research discovered clove gel to be effective, just like the benzocaine gel, a topic gel used by dentists to lower needle pain. The researchers applied benzocaine gel, clove, and placebo within the participant’s mouth. They reported reduced pain levels with benzocaine gels and clove and not the placebo. However, additional studies are required to determine the effectiveness of cloves with the other types of pain. Studies also suggest that individuals use cloves for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antifungal purposes.

Ginger

Ginger, also known as Zingiber officinale, is a root to alleviate pain. According to a 2015 systematic review, consuming two grams of ginger daily can relieve pain from strenuous exercises. The study also suggests that ginger may lessen inflammation and enhance recovery from pain caused by strenuous activities. You can incorporate ginger into your diet by adding it to your smoothies. You can also utilize ginger supplements found online in various health stores, but the natural ingredient is more effective. You should always consult with your physician before taking any supplements as they may have harmful side effects or may not work well with other medications.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary is also an effective essential oil used in alleviating pain. According to studies, rosemary oil may help manage seizures, muscles, headaches, and pain in the bones. You can also use it to reduce swelling, enhance memory and relax muscles. Use carrier oils such as olive oil to dilute any essential oil by utilizing between three to five drops of essential oil for every ounce of carrier oil. The study suggests that oil reacts to opioid receptors found in the brain and is associated with pain sensation. A clinical experiment established that rosemary alleviated pain in individuals suffering from withdrawal of opium.

Final Thoughts

The above remedies prove that natural pain relievers work, and many individuals use them to reduce pain and other purposes. Some of the most proven remedies incorporate a mix of many of the best pain relief oils into one single pain relief spray. However, since there is no adequate information concerning these natural pain relievers, you should use them with caution.  Despite any natural remedy you decide to use, you should understand that you are not always right for everyone. Studies concerning their potential side effects for people with existing health conditions are still ongoing, and the government does not control their quality. You should consult with a medical practitioner before using any of them.