Let’s face it, our bodies definitely change as we grow older. Some days, we can have more snap, crackle, and pop than a box of Rice Bubbles! Along with that, you may notice that you’re dealing with more aches and pains than you used to deal with. Maybe you’re suffering from a medical condition or an injury that causes pain. Regardless of its source, dealing with pain can be difficult, especially if it’s a frequent occurrence. While pain relievers can be effective, they can also have side effects or not be appropriate for long term use. Check out some of our favourite natural remedies for managing pain, some of which have been used for centuries!
Essential Oils
There are so many wonderful uses for essential oils, but did you know that many studies are showing their effectiveness for relieving pain? Oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary have all been shown to help with pain and inflammation, It’s important to remember not to ingest essential oils, and be sure to check with an expert for proper dosing and diluting instructions.
Spices
Ginger is a great addition to your pantry, for many reasons. This flavourful spice is best known for its anti-nausea benefits, however it also happens to be a powerful anti-inflammatory. Some studies show it can be useful for reducing muscle pain as well, especially if it’s an exercise-related injury. Try adding it into teas, smoothies, or grating it directly onto your salads and stir-frys. Turmeric has a long history of being used for its anti-inflammatory properties, but the active ingredient, Curcuma, offers pain-relieving qualities too. Again, turmeric is easily added into your cooking dishes or smoothies.
Yoga
Often, managing back pain properly will involve stretching and exercise. Yoga provides this in a gentle and relaxing manner. Done in a peaceful and meditative environment, along with breathing exercises and an attitude of self-care, yoga can be a positive way to help manage back and neck pain naturally. Taking this one step further, many chronic pain patients are turning to a practice called mindfulness. This involves meditation, which can help improve stress and depression, and in turn, pain symptoms.
Acupuncture
Research shows that acupuncture can be an effective tool for managing pain naturally. Numerous conditions can be treated using acupuncture, including chronic pain, back pain, knee pain, and even pain associated with osteoarthritis. In fact, there are dozens of conditions that may benefit from acupuncture therapy.
As with any treatment, natural or otherwise, always consult with your doctor before starting. There may be contraindications that you aren’t aware of, and only a professional can advise on dosing and safe practices. However, if you are suffering from any sort of pain condition and looking for a more natural method to handle your symptoms, there are many remedies available to explore. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find immediate relief, sometimes it takes some trial and error to find the right one for you, and with natural remedies, you need to be willing to give them time to work properly.
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