The Science of Natural Remedies for Pain Relief Is Helping to Reduce Prescription Medication Use

Chronic pain affects over 20% of the adult population, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. In the United States, that’s over 50 million people, and worldwide statistics are very similar.

Pain causes mobility issues and restricts daily activities for those afflicted, but its effects go much further than this. Statistics show that pain is closely correlated with feelings of anxiety and depression, addiction to dangerous opioids, and a generally lower quality of life.

Modern medicine tends to address pain symptoms with pharmaceutical medications and surgery. Still, a host of clinical studies and anecdotal reports suggest that natural remedies play an important role in helping to reduce the discomfort experienced by so many.

Medical doctors and natural medicine practitioners are exploring therapeutics that integrate complementary and alternative medicines, including exercises, stretching, and supplementation with vitamins and herbs.

Natural therapies have been used for centuries to alleviate the suffering of those who experience painful aches in their neck, back, arms, legs, and even severe migraines. In the 21^st century, scores of clinical studies continue to emerge about their potential as first-line treatment options.

The following spices, herbal medicines, and natural plant extracts are beneficial for those who experience pain regularly.

Concentrated Plant Extracts

Clinical studies have shown that full spectrum plant medicines significantly benefit users. The results from a 2021 clinical survey from the University of Washington and the University of California San Diego, among others, show that 60% of users could reduce prescription medication use after the administration of these concentrated natural plant extracts.

They’ve been shown to target endocannabinoid and neurotransmitter receptor sites in the body that manage everything from pain to sleep cycles. In moderate to maximum doses taken regularly for days or weeks, full spectrum extracts work to relieve pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost mood.

White Willow

According to Mount Sinai Hospital of New York, Salix Alba and other species of White Willow bark have been shown to be effective for various types of pain. It has been compared to aspirin concerning its pain-relieving properties due to salicin, which is believed to be the active ingredient behind its powerful mechanism of action.  White Willow is indicated for migraine headaches, lower back pain, osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, and symptoms associated with flu and fevers. It is suggested for adults, but doctors do not recommend it for children under 18.

Arnica Montana

Arnica Montana is another herb that may provide benefits. Its pain-relieving properties were first identified during the Renaissance in the 1500s, and it has been prescribed for pain ever since. Arnica is recommended as a topical applied to the skin, as serious side effects may develop if ingested orally. When absorbed transdermally, it acts as an anti-inflammatory and is commonly applied to bruises, sprains, and pulled muscles. For those who experience chronic joint pain, applying Arnica salve or cream may be a powerful mitigation strategy.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a versatile and globally popular natural spice that millions of people take for a wide range of medical conditions such as digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and depression. Curcumin, the active component known to give Turmeric its yellowish color, has been shown to reduce nerve pain, increase mobility in those restricted by pain, and reduce feelings of pain overall.  While turmeric may help after just a few doses, clinical research shows that 8 – 12 weeks of regular daily use yields the most effective results for arthritis-related pain. The extract is available as a loose spice or in capsule form with 500mg to 1000mg being the suggested daily amount.

Cayenne

Cayenne is one of the most potent spices available and has been used since 6,000 B.C.E. for medical applications. Not only is it a savory addition to home-cooked meals, but it also possesses well-known medicinal properties and is recommended for daily use. Its active ingredient, capsaicin, interacts directly with specific neurotransmitters in the central nervous system responsible for the human body’s pain management systems. Studies show that capsaicin reduces the amount of “Substance P,” a chemical known for sending pain messages throughout the body. When applied topically to the skin, cayenne reportedly lowers the levels of this chemical, leading to relief for those suffering from pain. While cayenne can be purchased at any local grocery store for oral or sublingual use, it is also available in cream and ointment blends.

Conclusion

Doctors worldwide are increasingly using a complementary and alternative approach to medicine to help mitigate and relieve chronic pain symptoms.

When combined with modern medicinal therapies, natural medicines like herbs, spices, and concentrated plant extracts may provide a complete wellness strategy and natural relief for those suffering from various pain conditions.