The HERB Blog

Pain can be a nuisance, as it renders daily chores impossible. The case becomes more excruciating in the context of chronic pain.

Chronic pain tends to last for over three months. One of the most common conditions and one of the most common reasons for people to seek care, chronic pain is draining, disturbing, and debilitating.

The only solution is to find the best possible remedies that can make chronic pain bearable, eventually terminating it.

Although there are various ways to tackle and manage chronic pain, herbal solutions always dominate the list. Organic, easy-to-procure, and reliable, herbs promise better results with fewer side effects.

Here is a list of 10 herbal solutions that can help alleviate chronic pain effectively.

• Kratom
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• White Willow Bark
• Boswellia
• CBD Oil
• Bromelain
• Capsicum Annuum
• Devil's Claw
• Comfrey

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa)

Kratom has been gaining a lot of traction in recent times. More than 15 million Americans are using kratom in their daily routine. Alkaloids, chemical substances present in the kratom leaves, are responsible for the herb's soothing properties. These chemicals interact with the opioid receptors in the brain and soothe the ache.

Three prominent strains of kratom are available, each promising a different sort of effect:

• White Strains: Increase alertness and sociability
• Green Strains: Increase energy, calm the nerves, and enhance well-being
• Red Strains: Pain management, stress relief, and relaxation

Ginger

Often associated with regulating blood pressure, ginger is also an effective herb for pain management. Ginger is rich in two renowned pain reducers, shogaol and gingerol. These components are responsible for ginger's therapeutic effects.

Boil it with tea leaves or consume it with a liquid. Ginger supplements are also available. The bioactive compounds interfere with the production of inflammatory substances, relieving pain. Whether for menstrual cramps or osteoarthritis, ginger works wonders in reducing muscle soreness.

Turmeric

Turmeric is one of the most commonly used spices to reduce inflammation and soothe muscles. Its main component, curcumin, brings a sense of calm and effectiveness against pain. Turmeric is notable for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

It can be used in powder form, as capsules, or as a spice in food. Turmeric is often combined with black pepper to enhance its effectiveness and alleviates pain from muscle injuries, arthritis, and migraines.

White Willow Bark

For centuries, healers have used white willow bark to reduce inflammation and ease chronic pain. Rich in salicin, it transforms into salicylic acid in the body, reducing prostaglandin production, thus easing discomfort.

White willow bark can be consumed as tea, capsules, or tablets, and is helpful for back pain, cluster headaches, arthritis, and muscle injuries.

Boswellia

Boswellia, extracted from the Boswellia serrata tree, is an ancient remedy for conditions like osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It reduces leukotriene production, which causes inflammation and asthma attacks.

Herbal supplements containing Boswellia are available on the market.

CBD Oil

CBD oil, derived from the cannabis plant, is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system to ease chronic pain in conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. However, more research is needed to understand its full potential.

Bromelain

Bromelain, extracted from the pineapple stem, has been trusted to reduce inflammation and ease pain. Available in capsule, cream, tablet, or powder form, it helps alleviate pain from sinusitis and osteoarthritis. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory for rheumatoid arthritis and osteomyelofibrosis.

Capsicum Annuum

Rich in capsaicin, capsicum annuum alleviates pain by interfering with substance P, a neurotransmitter responsible for pain signals. Found in creams, ointments, and pain patches, it helps with neuropathy, muscle pain, and arthritis.

Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)

Devil's claw, native to South Africa, has traditionally been used to treat chronic pain, especially for osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and back and neck problems. However, research is still ongoing to determine its core healing properties.

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

Comfrey is a shrub native to Europe, Asia, and North America and has been used for over 2,000 years to treat chronic pain. It provides comfort for joint disorders, bone fractures, and pulled muscles. While topical comfrey is safe, oral ingestion is discouraged due to potential liver issues.

The Bottom Line

Using natural herbs to soothe aching muscles and chronic pain is a timeless approach with fewer side effects. However, consultation with a healthcare specialist is vital before starting any herbal treatment. They will guide you on dose concentration, strain type, and other factors, especially if you have underlying health concerns that could lead to drug interactions.