If you are living with pain, adding herbs to your regimen may help ease your discomfort, especially when combined with regular exercise, diet, and relaxation techniques. For example, some may use Comfrey Cream, which they may combine with ingredients like oils or water and glyceryl stearate with Symphytum officinale (comfrey) extracts. Comfrey is an herb in the Boraginaceae family.
It has small purple flowers. It’s found in Europe, Asia, and North America. In addition, Comfrey cream contains several active components (substances). These include allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and others. These components are thought to speed up wound healing by stimulating new cell growth. Generally, herbs and their supplements are widely used, especially in the United States.
Many chemotherapeutic drugs used in cancer treatment are derived from plants (herbs). They are developed after rigorous clinical trials for safety and efficacy. Only a few oral herbal supplements, like turmeric and some medicinal mushrooms, have been tested this way. However, even those that showed promising results in lab studies may not have the same effects in humans.
In addition, the optimal dosages are often not determined. For centuries, herbs and spices have been widely valued for their healing properties and flavor. Modern research has found evidence for numerous health benefits— they help alleviate pain. With that in mind, this article will look at the best herbs/spices that can help relieve pain: Kratom, Willow bark, Valerian, Turmeric, Boswellia, etc.
The Topmost Best Herbs That Can Help In Mitigating Pain You Should Know About
According to a Canadian Pain Task Force report, over 8 million Canadians live with chronic pain. While pain for some people is temporary and usually signals something wrong with our bodies, chronic pain, on the other hand, is characterized by ongoing physical agony that doesn’t have any identifiable cause. This can lead to high dissatisfaction with life and, if left unmanaged, severe effects.
Some of the meds may affect all facets of an individual’s life. While there are conventional medicines and over-the-counter medicines that can be used to manage chronic pain, most of them are usually riddled with adverse side effects that can leave one feeling worse than before. Herbs/traditional medicines, on the other hand, are effective in helping to alleviate pain and inflammation.
On the one hand, complementary medicine includes therapies used as adjuncts to mainstream cancer care. One thing is sure: They are supportive measures that control symptoms, enhance well-being, and contribute to overall hospitalized patient care. On the other hand, clinical studies usually support the benefits of integrating herbs into dietary plans, and they are generally inexpensive.
Complementary therapies include acupuncture, massage, music, and mind-body therapies such as meditation. For centuries, herbal supplements have been used for their healing properties. Before you take herbals, ensure you know what’s in them, if they’re safe, and how they react with other supplements. Furthermore, they can have higher amounts of boswellia than Ayurvedic.
Herbs Help:
- Manage/treat arthritis.
- Control asthmatic attacks.
- Treat colitis (inflammation of your colon).
- Mitigate body inflammation (swelling and redness).
- Reduce fluid cerebral edema (brain swelling) after radiotherapy in patients with brain tumors.
- Manage skin damage due to radiotherapy in breast cancer patients.
NB: Herbs can interact with chemotherapy drugs through different mechanisms. Some can interfere with the metabolism of the drugs, making them less effective. Others may potentiate the adverse effects, such as bleeding, of chemotherapy drugs. Culinary used in small quantities for flavoring are generally safe. However, consuming large amounts for a prolonged time may have adverse effects.
In other words, herbal supplements are derived from plants and their oils, roots, seeds, berries, or flowers. Herbal supplements have been used for many centuries. They are believed to have numerous healing properties. As a rule of thumb, herbal supplements, and other related products come in many forms and may be used internally or externally. The forms of herbal products may vary.
Including:
- Liquid extracts
- Leaves in the form of teas
- Tablets and capsules
- Bath salts
- Roots and oils
- Ointments
The Dietary Supplement Health Education Act of October 1994 does not require manufacturers of herbal products to prove that their products are either safe or effective. That’s before they are put on the market. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for monitoring the safety of a product after it has become available for target consumers in the marketplace.
Some may take herbal supplements with prescribed medicines. This can result in serious health problems due to drug interactions. On that note, you should see a doctor or talk with your healthcare providers before taking them. Tell your healthcare providers about your previous or current dietary supplements, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, and natural or home remedies.
This will help them manage your care and keep you safe. Let’s say you take aspirin, digoxin, diuretics, hypoglycemic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, spironolactone, or warfarin. In that case, DO NOT use herbal supplements without first checking with your doctor. Be that as it may, many herbal supplements have several different uses. The following are some of the most common:
1. Kratom
The Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) plat is a tropical evergreen tree native to Asia that has been used for centuries to cure many ailments. While in most Asian countries, it’s used to combat fatigue and increase work productivity for day laborers, Kratom offers more than these benefits. This wonder plant has gained popularity in the West thanks to its pain-relieving components.
All thanks to mitragynine, an alkaloid in the plant that binds to μ-opioid receptors in the brain. Another compound found in Kratom, 7-hydroxy mitragynine, is believed to be 13 times more potent than morphine, which may be responsible for its pain relief qualities. At times, you would want to try your hands on specific kratom goods. The supplement comprises several potential health advantages.
There are several Certified Canadian Kratom Vendors, such as BC Kratom, to try. Various forms that one can use to ingest Kratom are pills and capsules (the most common form). However, they can also be taken through extracts and powders and brewed as tea. The tea tastes bitter and earthy and may not be for everyone. Always start with a low dose and work up as you build your tolerance.
2. White Willow Bark
White Willow Bark as a pain relief remedy dates back to 400 BC; during this time, people chewed on the bark to reduce conditions such as body inflammation and high fever. However, research has shown that Willow bark can be an effective therapy for low back pain, headache, tendinitis, and osteoarthritis. This may be due to salicin, a chemical similar to aspirin.
Research has shown that taking willow bark may be as effective as taking conventional anti-inflammatory medications to relieve knee and musculoskeletal pain. Salicin makes White Willow Bark an excellent pain reliever. There are various ways to get the pain-relieving properties of willow bark. However, it will depend on the location of the pain and the method you prefer.
They include brewing it as tea or ingesting it through a capsule or pill as a supplement. Additionally, you can drink it with other herbs, as certain users have reported getting better results in combinations with herbs such as turmeric and devil’s claw.
3. Valerian
Native to Europe and Asia, Valerian is a herb used as a natural remedy (a traditional herbal sleep remedy) for various ailments ranging from insomnia to trembling, headaches, nervousness, and heart palpitations. Extracted from the plant of the root, Valerian contains several compounds, valeric acid and Valeranone, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The plant has been studied with various methodologic designs using multiple dosages and preparations. Research has focused on subjective evaluations of sleep patterns, particularly sleep latency, and study populations have primarily consisted of self-described poor sleepers. As a result, it helps improve subjective sleep experiences when taken nightly over one- to two-week periods.
Valerian is also believed to increase the levels of Gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that has calming effects on the body. It treats several conditions, such as headaches, muscle and tendon strain, and menstrual cramps. It’s packed with anti-depressants and anti-anxiety effects on the body, thanks to the Valepotriates present. Its various forms are teas, extracts, capsules, and tablets.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is another herb that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It’s a typical deep, golden-orange spice that adds color, flavor, and nutrition to foods. A relative of ginger, turmeric comes from the rhizome (root) of a native Asian plant. While many people know of turmeric as a spice used in curries and numerous other dishes, turmeric can also be used for its healing properties.
It has been used in cooking for hundreds of years. The active ingredient in Turmeric is a natural compound (polyphenol) called curcumin, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Like other colorful plant-based foods, turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that may protect the body by neutralizing free radicals (pollution, sunlight) and shielding the cells from damage.
In addition, it has also been used in Ayurvedic and other forms of traditional medicine in China and India. Eaten raw, blended into smoothies, or taken in capsule form as a supplement, Turmeric gets many of its inflammatory properties from curcumin, an active ingredient. This helps manage inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and other joint disorders, colitis, allergies, and infections.
5. Boswellia
Boswellia (Indian frankincense) is a herb derived from beneath the bark of the Boswellia serrata tree. Traditional healers used Boswellia to help women recover from childbirth and treat conditions like indigestion, breathing problems, and coughing. Some of the compounds found in Boswellia are responsible for their anti-inflammatory properties, thus making it great for reducing pain.
6. Astragalus
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a flowering plant for beginner health and wellness herbalists. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used the root for centuries. Due to Astragalus’s readily available compounds, the herb is considered an adaptogen. Adaptogens are natural substances that stimulate the body’s resistance to physical, environmental, and emotional stressors.
Astragalus is a plant that can be taken as a supplement or made into liquid extracts, teas, and powders. The health benefits of astragalus root may include boosting your immune system and improving kidney or heart function. It also has many other benefits.
Some other benefits include immune-system-boosting, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory effects. It is believed to prolong our life spans and treat various ailments, such as fatigue, allergies, and the common cold. Its chemicals also seem to stimulate the immune system and reduce swelling. Given as an injection or IV, it’s also used against heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
7. Camphor
For health and wellness enthusiasts, Camphor is a white crystalline compound derived from the wood of Cinnamomum camphora. One of its essential properties is its pungent odor and spicy taste. Camphor comes in many chemical varieties, each with different essential oil compositions. It’s obtained by steam distillation, purification, and sublimation of the bark and wood.
Notably, Camphor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora formosana) Leaf Oil is derived from the branches, root stumps, and chipped wood of the Camphor Tree. The oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, which benefit people suffering from certain skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections. It is cooling and soothing, calming inflammation, redness, itching and irritation.
It can also help to reduce pain and swelling on the skin. The camphor tree (as shown in this illustration image) is known for its strong, pungent aroma, which comes from the essential oil in its wood and leaves. This oil is used in various products, including soaps, perfumes, and medicinal ointments. Markedly, the tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and has glossy, dark green leaves.
8. Rose
Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) Oil, derived from the plant’s leaves and stem, is beautifully fragranced and often used on oily and congested skin, wounds, and burns. Medically speaking, it is used to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores and to soothe uncomfortable skin conditions. In addition, it has an all-round rejuvenating effect on the skin and complexion.
Usually, Rose Geranium is a heavily aromatic plant; its aroma is released simply by brushing its velvety-soft leaves. The flowers range from white to pink and are delicate and not critical for harvesting. To engage in the production and extraction process of the Rose Geranium Oil, you can work with experts to outsource pure, natural oils produced to the highest ethical standards.
In other words, Rose Geranium Oil is prized for its rose-like solid floral fragrance and is used extensively as an ingredient in perfumes and body care. Its oil is distilled from the flowers and oil-laden leaves of Pelargonium graveolens. Fairoils’ Kenyan rose geranium genetics were initially sourced from the island of Reunion, and hence, we refer to the oil as a “Bourbon-type” Rose Geranium.
9. Palmarosa
Usually, the Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini) Oil comes from a grass that has a sweet scent, not unlike a rose flower. It is known for its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties and ability to balance the skin’s oil production. Palmarosa oil also acts as an antibacterial and microbial agent. Therefore, it soothes skin conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and flaky.
Its flowers, arranged in plumes, are similar to those of geranium. The essential palmarosa oil is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antimycotic agent, making it an ally for respiratory ailments (rhinopharyngitis, sinusitis, otitis, bronchitis, angina, tracheitis, etc.), fungal infections and acne. It also stimulates and regenerates the cells, accelerating healing (acne, wounds, scars, etc.).
It also helps with skincare (rosacea, dull, mixed, or oily skin). It drains the lymph and fights against lymphatic edema and cellulite. It acts on excessive perspiration thanks to its astringent properties.
10. Peppermint
First, Peppermint can be used topically or aromatically to address various health issues, from headaches and muscle aches to hair loss and IBS symptoms. Secondly, studies have found that peppermint oil is a potent antioxidant with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pesticide properties. This explains why it can be used so widely and why many folks rely on it.
The plant is a mixture of two varieties of mint — spearmint and watermint, with the oil extracted from the leaves and flowers through steam distillation. Once extracted, the essential peppermint oil contains over 40 compounds, including menthol, often used to ease discomfort. Equally important, it also contains properties that can help to cleanse, purify, and refresh the mind and body.
The Other Essential Spices For More Flavorful Cooking And Healthy Living
Regarding cancer causes, free radicals are chemicals that have unpaired electrons. They are present in the environment and are generated in the body through regular metabolism. Free radicals are highly active and are thought to interact with DNA, causing cell damage and cancer. Luckily, Antioxidants are substances that can inhibit the process of oxidation associated with free radicals.
Studies of multivitamin use for cancer prevention have yielded mixed results. Most found that multivitamins have little or no effect in reducing the overall risk of cancer. Some studies suggest that multivitamin supplementation may increase the risk of certain cancers. A recent Physicians’ Health Study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association proves something great.
It proves that multivitamins can lower cancer incidence in male cancer survivors. The benefits of a daily multivitamin for general cancer prevention remain unclear because of variations in the populations studied and multivitamin formulations. A study by the CDC states that more than half of the people in the country take a daily herbal supplement. There are many other herbal types.
At the same time, there are various spices that we often use while preparing our meals. The ones we keep on our bottom spice shelf for easy grabbing. And the ones we find ourselves replacing over and over again. They’re high quality, incredibly fresh and potent, are all organic, and have an incredible range. Some are available via online marketplace and are cheap to buy from vendors.
Including:
- Cinnamon: It lowers blood sugar levels and has a powerful anti-diabetic effect.
- Sage: It can help improve brain function and boost memory capacity.
- Lemongrass: It smells excellent! It’s known for its anti-fungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties; it can help to strengthen skin tissue and is also regularly used as an insect repellent.
- Argan: Its oil is traditionally used to treat skin diseases. It is a natural moisturizer due to its high omega content and contains Vitamin E, which is known to cool and soothe the skin.
- Pine: Pine (Pinus sylvestris) Leaf Oil contains skin-friendly antioxidants that help ward off free radicals, calm irritated skin, and reduce inflammation and redness. It also has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which can benefit acne-prone skin.
- Aloe: Aloe Vera is an emollient, skin moisturizer, and hydrator. It aids in shedding dead skin cells, combats itch, fights bacteria, etc.
For thousands of years, some of the above-mentioned vital herbs have been essential in Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda), where their tonic and healing properties are appreciated. Furthermore, diets rich in plant-based foods prevent medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Anyone who manages inflammation could benefit from adding some of the best spices to their foods.
Final Thoughts:
Remember, many foods, herbs, and dietary supplements, such as vitamin C and pycnogenol, have antioxidant effects. Some believe a diet rich in antioxidants helps prevent cancer. However, no conclusive evidence exists that antioxidant supplements can reduce the incidence of cancer. Moreover, a high intake of certain antioxidants increases the risk of cancer—talk to your doctor first.
Herbs have been in use as an alternative therapy for hundreds of years. Not only do these herbs provide relief from pain, but they also offer other added benefits to the body. However, it’s crucial that before you start using them, you talk to a healthcare professional and let them know that some of these herbs may counteract with some medicines. Nonetheless, herbs are essential.
Resource Reference: Ayurvedic Treatment | The Top 10 Knee Pain Healing Therapies
Notwithstanding, they are an alternative for individuals looking for a more natural way to manage pain. Their insurance depends on the coverage of your policy. Many insurance companies recognize the benefits and cost-effectiveness of complementary therapies and offer coverage to include them. Some hospitals provide these therapies free of charge as part of the overall inpatient care.
Finally, most herbs and dietary supplements have not been studied with chemotherapy drugs, and their interactions remain unclear. Many oncologists advise their patients to avoid these products during chemotherapy. Realistically, spending on most complementary therapies is considered a medical expense and may also be eligible for a flexible healthcare spending account.
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