Alternative Therapies to Stop Pain: A Three Part Series: Part 1
Supplements to Beat Pain
Pain can dominate our lives. Regardless of where it occurs in the body, pain can make simple activities difficult, ruin our ability to concentrate, and interfere with mobility.
For some, every movement must be calculated to avoid discomfort. This can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, which causes more inflammation, leading to more pain. A true downward spiral. So what can we do about it?
10 Pain-Fighting Supplements
These botanicals and nutrients are shown to reduce various types of pain, while offering other important health benefits:
- Turmeric: It is sold in capsules, extracts, powders, and as a whole root. This common Indian spice has a well-deserved reputation for controlling pain and supporting longevity. It is a powerful and versatile anti-inflammatory ingredient. Turmeric supports circulation, detoxification, immunity, and tissue repair.
- Ginger: A relative of turmeric, ginger can reduce inflammation and increase circulation. It is particularly helpful for joint pain and intestinal discomfort. Powdered ginger can be taken in a capsule or brewed as tea. Fresh ginger root is a wonderful addition to stir fry, soups, desserts, and other dishes.
- Capsaicin: Derived from hot peppers, capsaicin has long been known for its ability to relieve pain. It’s often used as a topical cream.
- Vitamin D: Deficiency of this nutrient has been linked to chronic pain. One study compared pain medication requirements among people with normal and decreased vitamin D levels. Those deficient in vitamin D needed almost twice as much pain medication.
- Vitamin C: Another powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient, vitamin C has been found to reduce pain and help people recover from sports injuries.
- B Vitamins: This family of nutrients is useful in treating nerve pain, particularly in diabetics.
- Acetyl-L-carnitine: This amino acid has also been shown to relieve diabetic nerve pain.
- Glucosamine: It can help relieve stiff, arthritic joints.
- Magnesium: This mineral has been shown to control NMDA, a neurochemical associated with pain. Magnesium also helps relax stiff or spasmodic muscles and improve circulation. In addition to taking magnesium orally, there are topical forms as well as the traditional Epsom salts you can add to a bath.
- Boswellia: Also known as Indian frankincense, this resin from the Boswellia serrata tree contains active components which help reduce inflammation and pain. It can be taken as a supplement or used topically.
Next time pain tries to take over your life, don’t automatically reach for risky medications. Try one of the natural remedies above. You’ll not only get genuine pain relief, your overall health will improve.
