Natural Methods that May Help Relieve Pain and Inflammation

Updated on September 17, 2023

Pain and inflammation can disrupt the quality of life leaving people impotent to do their daily chores. The treatments for chronic pain and inflammation can be diverse as the causes. From prescription and over-the-counter drugs to several techniques, there is a wide range of approaches available but the natural remedies seem the best. 

Speaking of natural remedies, it may reduce the inflammation and pain level in the body and improve overall health but the extent to which these remedies work always depend on the causes of the inflammation and pain. Some people find natural remedies to be highly effective against the symptoms of certain ailments like arthritis. 

However, research has so far explored some of the best natural methods to relieve pain and inflammation. Keep on reading to discover the number of ways available for people to reduce their pain and inflammation naturally. 

1. CBD Oil

There has been extensive research ongoing on the influence of cannabidiol on relieving pain and inflammation especially after the legalization of hemp plants in several countries. CBD is one of the essential ingredients of marijuana but it’s primarily derived from hemp plants. 

Several people and studies have reported that the use of CBD oil is one of the best ways that may help relieve pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders as well as inflammation. The best CBD for inflammation interacts with the ECS or endocannabinoid system that translates and receives the signals from the cannabinoids. 

The endocannabinoid system in the human body regulates major functions like pain, immune responses, and sleep. As CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it may relieve pain and inflammation. Nevertheless, the FDA hasn’t yet approved CBD for treating any pain as more trials on humans are required before making any conclusion.

2. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the alternative therapy available that may help reduce pain. It’s a traditional practice discovered by the Chinese that has gained huge popularity around the world. The process involves the insertion of needles in the skin in order to stimulate the connective tissues, nerves, and muscles through the body to reduce pain. 

The recent research from NCCIH states that this natural method can help with specific types of pain such as neck pain, osteoarthritis, low back pain, and knee pain. Even if people get frequent headaches, acupuncture may help relieve the pain. 

A meta-analysis conducted in 2018 found that this is one of the most effective ways to treat chronic pain. Still, more research is required to conclude whether acupuncture can help relieve pain and inflammation in humans or not. 

3. Feverfew

Medicinal plants have always been helpful in terms of treating several health conditions. Feverfew is a type of medicinal plant that’s used traditionally for treating migraine headaches, fever, toothaches, rheumatoid arthritis, and stomach aches. However, it contains certain compounds that can reduce muscle spasms and inflammation. 

Some of the researchers believe that the active compounds found in feverfew plants include flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones. So far, there is a mixed result available when it comes to alleviating pain by using feverfew but 2011 research found that the leaves and flowers of this plant have pain-relieving and analgesic properties. 

Further, it’s important to consult a doctor before using feverfew as it may cause side effects like nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. 

4. Lavender Essential Oil 

The lavender essential oil may be helpful in terms of relieving pain naturally. People have been using lavender oils to help with sleep disorders, pain relief, and ease the symptoms of anxiety. A study conducted in 2012 found that lavender oil has the inhaling power that may relieve pain associated with headaches. 

It also has shown anti-inflammatory effects in animals. Although the FDA hasn’t yet regulated the dosages and ingredients of essential oils, people should be more careful while using them. Ingesting essential oil can be harmful but it can be applied after diluting in a carrier oil. 

5. Capsaicin 

Capsaicin present in the chili peppers has been used for relieving pain naturally. When it’s applied it can cause a tingling sensation or mild burning. Studies show that capsaicin plays a critical role in pain management. In fact, there are several pain-relieving products that contain capsaicin. 

Nevertheless, researchers aren’t entirely sure what ingredients present in capsaicin help relieve the pain but some believe that it acts on the nociceptive fibers. These are the nerves responsible for carrying the pain signals. As it acts on the nociceptive fibers, it reduces the body’s sensitivity towards pain and people find relief after using it.

6. Healthy Diet

Certain foods are responsible for relieving pain and inflammation. This includes ginger, cloves, and turmeric. A systematic review conducted in 2015 found that people can modestly reduce their muscle pain by ingesting a small amount of ginger every day. Research has also found that ginger reduces inflammation if it’s related to exercises.

Turmeric also has active pain-relieving ingredients that help it to reduce pain. It’s a herbal remedy used by a lot of people to reduce inflammation as well. It can be added to juices, smoothies, and curries to ingest it. Lastly, the use of cloves can relieve pain especially if it’s caused by toothaches. 

Conclusion 

These are the few natural methods available to treat pain and inflammation. Among all these, CBD may be highly effective in terms of easing several symptoms of health conditions and relieving pain and inflammation. Nonetheless, the use of CBD is highly debated and more research should be conducted before concluding anything. 

Meanwhile, people who want to try out CBD products should consult a doctor and shop from the top CBD brands to avoid any major side effects in the long run. 

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.