White Willow Bark
White willow bark has been used for centuries to relieve pain caused by inflamed joints. It is the "grandmother" of aspirin and other drugs used to treat arthritis and rheumatism. The active ingredient in willow bark was isolated by a German chemist in 1828 and was named salicin. In 1899, the modified form of willow bark (acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin) was manufactured by the Bayer company.
Willow bark is used to treat low back pain, osteoarthritis, headache, menstrual cramps, tendonitis, bursitis, and other pain caused by inflammation. This natural pain reliever is also used to reduce a fever.
Willow bark depends on "good" bacteria in the intestines to digest its components into painkillers whereas aspirin does not. This means aspirin works more quickly but willow bark provides relief for a longer period of time.
Unlike aspirin, willow bark does not usually irritate the stomach lining and it does not increase the risk of bleeding.
If you are allergic to aspirin, do not use willow bark. Do not give to children under the age of 16 because of the risk of developing Reye syndrome.
Meadowsweet and wintergreen are other natural pain relievers rich in salicylates.
Feverfew
Feverfew is one of the world's best selling herbs to treat migraines. An active compound in feverfew, parthenolide, helps prevent blood vessels in the brain from constricting (one leading cause of migraines).
Cayenne
Capsaicin, the compound found in cayenne peppers, can help relieve many sources of pain, including back and neck pain, arthritis, sinus headaches, and neuralgia. Capsaicin is believed to work by stopping the release of substance P (SP), an important element in pain perception.
You can buy capsaicin cream or you can make your own by mixing several teaspoons of cayenne powder to 1/4 cup of skin lotion or cold cream until it is pink in color.
To check for any irritation, test a small area before applying a larger amount on the affected area. After applying, wash your hands thoroughly with soap to prevent getting it in your eyes.
Other natural pain relievers include:
- ginger
- skullcap
- yucca
- bosweillia
- arnica
- turmeric
- holy basil
- cat's claw.
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