The sounds of “ooh” and “ouch” are usually followed by a “pop”! I mean, each time you feel pain, the first thing you do is pop a pill of painkiller! Do you think it is wise to take painkillers for every trifle sensation of pain? Is it safe to use pain killers frequently? Of course not!
You must be aware that pain killers, like Ibuprofen, cause some serious side effects, some of which are felt instantly like pain in the abdomen, and vomiting. Some side effects don’t show up until several years later, especially when you depend on Ibuprofen for a chronic condition. It can damage your kidneys and liver, destroying the function of these vital organs.
The best way to escape these short and long-term side effects of Ibuprofen is as simple as not taking it! But does it mean you have to live with the pain? No! There are a few natural alternatives to Ibuprofen that are just as effective as this painkiller, all the while being completely safe. Eager to know them? Read on…
1. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Research has found that extra-virgin olive oil contains a compound called oleocanthal, which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent with a potency and mechanism of action strikingly similar to that of ibuprofen.
It inhibits the enzymes in the prostaglandin-biosynthesis pathways, which are responsible for the sensation of pain thus providing significant relief. It has been found that about three and a half tablespoons of this oil are equal to one 200-mg tablet of Ibuprofen
So, if you are suffering from a chronic painful disease like arthritis, it would make sense to include olive oil in your regular diet. It will help to get rid of joint pain and will allow you to enjoy the freedom of movement (instead of taking Ibuprofen, which will reduce the pain but damage your kidneys and liver at the same time).
2. White Willow Bark
White Willow Bark has been used traditionally to treat osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and other painful conditions such as tendonitis, and bursitis. You can also use it to obtain instant relief from headache.
This herb contains a natural chemical called Salicin, which acts as a non-selective inhibitor of enzymes called COX-1 and COX-2, and thus, reduces pain.
3. Cats Claw
Research has indicated that Cat’s Claw has the ability to stimulate the immune system and boost the activity of an anti-inflammatory agent. This helps to prohibit the production of prostaglandins, the hormones responsible for causing pain and inflammation. It also inhibits the expression of genes linked to inflammation. Cat’s Claw can be used to get rid of joint pain caused by osteoarthritis. It can be used in its natural form to make a tincture or tea.
4. Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chemical ingredient present in hot peppers. It is an excellent alternative to Ibuprofen for people who suffer from muscle stiffness, frequent headaches, joint pain, or sprains. It works by interfering with the action of prostaglandins.
If you are suffering from a chronic painful condition, you can include chili peppers in your regular diet to get rid of pain and discomfort. For treating acute pain, you can simply use capsaicin cream to massage the affected part. The topical application of capsaicin attenuates the sensitivity of the skin and reduces pain by a process called “defunctionalization” of the nociceptor fibres.
5. Boswellia
Boswellia has been used as a natural painkiller for several centuries. It is beneficial for people suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It can prevent cartilage loss, therefore blocking the progression of these diseases while providing relief from pain and discomfort.
6. Turmeric
Curcumin, the active component in turmeric, is highly anti-inflammatory. It works by inhibiting a major inflammatory agent called NF kappa-Beta, which exacerbates pain in those suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory-related diseases. It has been proven recently in a study to beat ibuprofen for arthritis of the knee.
So, the next time you go “ooh” or “ouch”, skip the “POP” and use these natural alternatives to get relief from the pain. This will help you avoid the side effects of Ibuprofen even when used in the long term.
