5 Ways to KICK Stubborn Pain
When you’re in pain, you’ll do just about anything for a little relief.
And if you’re experiencingchronic pain, chances are you go through your fair share of NSAIDs like Advil and Aleve just to get through your day.
But with side effects that range from dangerous (stomach pain and heartburn) to deadly (increased risk of heart attack and stroke), it’s time to reach for a safer option.
Fortunately, nature has provided its own pain relievers – and they won’t try to kill you in the process.
Here are my top five.
#1 Turmeric
One of the best nutrients for pain is turmeric – or its main component, curcumin. The reason why is simple: Inflammation is often at the root of chronic pain, and turmeric is one of nature’s most potent anti-inflammatories. You can take it in capsule form, or make “golden milk,” which is a mixture of coconut milk, turmeric, and a pinch of black pepper (and sweetener to taste).
#2 Willow Bark
Another potent natural anti-inflammatory is willow bark. Willow bark can help with everything from osteoarthritis pain to back pain to headaches. Like turmeric, you can take willow bark in capsule form, or get it as an herb that you can brew like tea.
#3 CBD Oil
CBD oil is one of the most controversial pain remedies, but it’s also one of the best. Because CBD oil is sold without the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, it won’t make you high, but it will help your pain. Some studies have shown that it can relieve arthritis pain, and othershave shown that it helps relieve both pain and inflammation in adults with chronic pain.
#4 Ginger
Ginger extract has remarkable pain-relieving properties. It has been found to be just as effective as ibuprofen at improving pain, joint swelling, and range of motion in people with severe osteoarthritis knee pain. Another study showed that it reduced pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis by 40%.
#5 Camphor
Last but not least is camphor, a topical solution that works like a charm. Camphor was essentially the original “icy-hot.” First, it stimulates the skin’s nerve endings in such a way that it “cools,” or numbs the area. Then it increases circulation to the area, “warming” it as it relieves stiff, sore muscles and joints. The result is a topical, completely natural treatment that is excellent at relieving minor aches and pains in muscles and joints.
