Stomach aches, backaches, headaches, joint pain, dental pain… Analgesics are not the only effective remedies. Here are the natural remedies that can help deal with pain.
Stomach pain, back pain, headache, joint pain, dental pain… Analgesic drugs are not the only effective remedies to get rid of everyday pain. There are alternatives to drugs classics to relieve all types of pain. THE plants contain, for example, active ingredients that make them effective, which is why they must be considered as real drugs, with contraindications, interactions, a dosage to be respected… Here are some effective natural solutions to test!
1. Fennel if you suffer from painful periods
► The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the use of fennel against menstrual pain. It can be taken under form of dried fruit, infusions or essential oil.
► Since heat is effective against cramps related to menstruation, you can also put a hot water bottle on your stomach.
► Finally, the practice of moderate physical activity such as cycling or walking sometimes enough to make them disappear.
2. Lemon balm for stomach aches
Between bloating, stomach aches, difficulty digesting, our stomach often makes us suffer. Fortunately, a few simple gestures and phytotherapy plants can free us quickly. To get rid of digestive pain:
► If you feel any spasms in the stomach or intestineschoose antispasmodic plants such as lemon balm (in herbal tea) or peppermint (in capsules).
► If it is the stomach that is struggling to digest, but you do not suffer from an ulcer or gastroesophageal reflux, bet on the plants that contain bitter substances. These stimulate the production of gastric juices. This is for example the yellow gentian or wormwood, whose dried parts can be drunk as an infusion just after meals.
► If your digestive pain is due to stress, try relaxation methods such as sophrology. By learning to breathe again, you will relax and avoid “knots” in your stomach.
► The regular practice of a physical activity is essential to avoid digestive pain since in addition to chasing stress, it promotes the proper functioning of intestinal transit. So get your sneakers on!
3. White willow bark for headaches
Headaches, migraines and toothaches can cripple you and ruin your day. Here are some ideas to relieve you and even prevent their appearance. If you suffer from a headache:
► Some plants are traditionally used against headaches, without their properties being scientifically proven. This is the case, for example, of infusions of white willow bark or peppermint essential oil which you can massage your temples.
► Against migraine, plants containing caffeine can be useful to limit pain because they have a vasoconstrictor effect (tighten blood vessels) in the brain. Coffee, tea, maté or guarana are rich in caffeine. They can be taken as drinks from the first symptoms. However, because migraine triggers are different from person to person, it’s not certain that this will work for you.
► In addition, Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a plant recognized by the WHO to prevent migraine attacks.
4. A clove against toothache
► Clove has antibacterial and analgesic properties. This is why it is used to relieve toothaches. You can chew a nail of this spice to relieve pain temporarily. Please note: this tip does not exempt you from having to go to the dentist afterwards to treat the cause of the pain.
5. Heat against muscle pain
Muscle tension and back pain are very common and cause us to consume many painkillers and anti-inflammatories. Here are some methods to relieve them without drugs.
► comfrey is a plant whose roots and leaves are used as a poultice on sprains and painful muscles. It is said to have anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
► The roots of the harpagophyton contain several active substances that give it anti-inflammatory properties. The use of the plant against back and lumbar pains is recognized, especially if these pains are linked to rheumatism. The harpagophyton can be taken in the form of herbal tea, capsules, ointments, etc.
Note: To get rid of low back pain over the long term, do exercises to strengthen your back and adopt better postures.
► After a trauma or strain, apply a cloth filled with ice to the painful area to numb the pain. On muscle contractures, place a hot water bottle instead because the heat relaxes the muscles.
6. Aloe against burns and sunburn
Sunburns and small burns can be relieved quickly with a few remedies:
► A superficial burn (simple and not very extensive) must always be passed under cold water until the pain disappears, then disinfected. You can then apply St. John’s wort oil, traditionally used on small burns because its pigments (hypericin) give it anti-inflammatory and healing properties. St. John’s wort also exists in ointments sold in pharmacies. The translucent gel of fresh aloe can also be applied to a minor burn as it is soothing.
► Against sunburn, the effectiveness of witch hazel has been proven. Infuse leaves and dried bark of the plant, leave to cool and apply the infusion to the skin with compresses. The care of the gardens also has anti-inflammatory and healing properties, useful against sunburn. It can be used the same way.
7. Arnica for bruises and bruises
► The star plant against bruises (bruises) is of course arnica, which has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anticoagulant properties. Arnica comes in different easy-to-use forms (creams, gels, etc.). Other plants are also used against bruises, such as sweet clover or primrose. Tip: To avoid the formation of a bruise, you can massage the area immediately after the blow and for a few minutes.
8. Harpagophyton against osteoarthritis pain
Rheumatism most often affects the hips, knees or hands. They are due to a deterioration of the cartilages of the joints which makes them painful. Here are some alternatives to medication:
► Plants against osteoarthritis. Some plants have anti-inflammatory activity and their effectiveness against joint pain is recognized. This is the case of the harpagophyton which can be used as an ointment or Cassis who can be drunk as an infusion. Green clay is traditionally used as a paste (mixed with water) on painful joints.
► The hydrotherapy. Even if no study formally proves the effectiveness of spa treatments against osteoarthritis, they are very popular with people who suffer from it. In some people, they even reduce the dose of painkillers. Note: cures for osteoarthritis can be covered by health insurance.
► Hot water bottle or ice cubes. The heat relaxes the muscles and can in some cases quickly relieve an attack of rheumatism. If it is an inflammatory crisis, it is on the contrary the cold that will relieve you. If in doubt, ask your doctor for advice.
► Finally, excess weight can put a strain on your joints and increase pain. Weight loss can be considered with the help of your doctor.
Sources:
– The guide to healing plants, Vidal, 2010.
– The natural almanac of home remedies, Brigitte Mars and Chrystle Fiedler, Practical Hachette, 2012.
– I treat myself with plants, Dr Jean-Michel Morel, First editions, 2010.