... Natural and safe pain relievers
FISH OILS
The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA found in fish oil have been shown, by many clinical studies, to have powerful antiinflammatory properties that reduce pain, lower inflammation and promote joint lubrication. The more severe the pain, the higher the dose needed.
GINGER
This root is a strong antiinflammatory that offers pain relief and stomach-settling properties. Fresh ginger works well when steeped in boiling water as a tea or grated into vegetable juice. A grounded black pepper seed increases the potency of the ginger tea. It may also be applied externally as a hot compress to painful joints and muscles.
Turmeric, a close relative to ginger, offers very similar benefits and its antiinflammatory properties have anti-cancer effects.
BOSWELLIA
This herb contains specific active anti-inflammatory ingredients known as boswellic acids that research has shown to significantly reduce inflammation.
BROMELAIN
This enzyme, found in pineapples, is natural and anti-inflammatory. It can be taken in supplement form, but eating fresh pineapple may also be helpful. Also called capsaicin cream, this spice comes from dried hot peppers. It alleviates pain by depleting the body’s supply of Substance P, a chemical component in nerve cells that transmits pain signals to the brain.
GUINEA HEN WEED
This very common local bush has become very popular for its potential anticancer benefits. However, it is also very useful as a pain reliever. In addition to drinking the tea – best made from the whole plant, the root can be soaked in alcohol and the liquid applied to painful joints and sore areas. Even inhaling the pungent aroma from the root will relieve many a headache.
AROMATHERAPY
Essential oils like lavender and rosemary offer powerful stress-relieving and analgesic properties. Simply rub a few drops of the oil in your palms and inhale the fragrance for a few moments and notice the change in your feelings.
MIND/BODY THERAPIES
Pain responds well to a variety of therapies like hypnosis, acupuncture, Reiki, Emotional Freedom Therapy (tapping), and therapeutic touch. The wonderful thing is that many of these treatments can be self-administered.
So before taking two pain pills, consider your other options. They are often safer and gentler.
You may email Dr Vendryes at tonyvendryes@gmail.com or listen to An Ounce of Prevention on POWER106FM on Fridays at 8:15 p.m. Visit www.tonyvendryes.com for details on his books and articles.