Medication isn’t the only option for relief. Next time you’re experiencing a toothache, back ache, or any other discomfort, you can try an herbal and natural path like turmeric.

comfrey salve for back joint management and muscle soreness

Many people rely on medications for relief from things like toothache or backache, but these can come with a risk of side effects, drug interactions, and sometimes misuse.


While certain circumstances may require a prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, finding some of the relief you need from various natural relievers may also be possible. Many herbs and spices have a long history of being used.

The following fall under a treatment category known as alternative medicine. Just ask your doctor before trying them, especially for those remedies that need to be ingested, as they may have some side effects, including interfering with some medications.

Comfrey 

Boswellia, otherwise known as frankincense, is often used in Ayurvedic medicine.

A 2020 studyTrusted Source involving 545 people found that Boswellia was an effective, safe treatment.

Turmeric

Turmeric, which contains curcumin, is the spice that gives curry its signature yellow hue and unique flavor.

It contains the compound curcumin, an antioxidant that helps protect. Trusted Source the body from free radical molecules that can damage cells. bone-related conditions like.Trusted Source

Though most commonly used as a spice, turmeric is also available in supplement form and is often paired with piperine, a compound found in black pepper, to increase its absorption.

Learn more about the health benefits and possible side effects of turmeric and curcumin.

Cloves

Whole cloves are often used to spice up meat and rice dishes, they’re also widely usedTrusted Source due to their content of eugenol, that’s also used in some OTC rubs.

Cloves are available in capsule or powder form. Clove oil is also available and can be applied topically to reduce pain.

Learn more about the health benefits of cloves and their side effects.

Other herbal remedies

Many of these can be distilled into essential oils. These include:

Many herbal extracts are thought to help because they contain phenolic compounds like eugenol, which are strong antioxidan

Acupuncture

This ancient Chinese medical practice seeks to relieve by balancing the body’s natural energy pathways. The energy flow is known as qi (pronounced “chee”).

For this practice, acupuncturists insert tiny, thin needles into your skin. The location of the insertion is related to the source of the discomfort. Based on the qi, a needle may be inserted far from the part of the body experiencing it.

Acupuncture may work by causing the body to release serotonin, a “feel-good” brain chemical that eases tension. It is also believed to reduce stress levels.

Heat and ice

Applying heat and ice directly to sites is a common home remedy. While this treatment may seem obvious, not everyone knows when to use ice versus heat.

Applying an ice pack to reduce swelling shortly after you experience a strained muscle, tendon, or ligament may bring relief.

 heat may help reduce the stiffness that comes with sprains and strains.

A heating pad or cold pack used briefly on the head may also help reduce the tension of a headache, while an ice pack can help.

moist heat applied to the affected joint will help more than ice. Moist heat packs can be warmed in the microwave many times, making them effective and easy to use.

Frequently asked questions

Are there natural remedies for nerve damage?

This depends on the cause of your nerves, but remedies may include essential oil, exercises, and certain vitamins and minerals.

Can I use natural remedies after surgery?

This depends on the type of surgery. However, some possible ways to help reduce pain without medication after surgery include acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).

Learn more:  relief basics.


Takeaway

 Integrative medicine professionals, who are physicians trained in more natural remedies, may be a great option if you’re seeking alternative therapy.