Americans are popping prescription and over-the-counter pain medicine for relief. However, there is a safer way to deal with inflammation and pain.
We all suffer from pain from time to time. With the opioid epidemic in full effect, Americans are popping prescription and over-the-counter pain medicine for relief. However, there is a safer way. Pain is caused by inflammation that clinical studies now show can be relieved and soothed in many cases with the following combination of herbs and supplements.
Tart Cherry Juice
According to Body into Balance author and registered clinical herbalist Maria Noel Groves, “In a recent double-blind study, just an ounce of tart cherry juice concentrate consumed morning and night for four days prior to, and three days after soccer trials significantly reduced inflammation, muscle soreness, and recovery time, compared to a placebo.”
Photo courtesy of pixaby
Tart cherry juice that is 100-percent natural (always read the ingredient label) contains a healthy amount of carbs, fiber, protein, fat, vitamins A, C, manganese, potassium, copper, and vitamin K. It has been found to reduce inflammation and pain caused from rheumatoid arthritis, can increase melatonin levels, and improve sleep when taken two times a day.
Boswellia
Also known as Indian frankincense, Boswellia has been shown to also reduce chronic pain and inflammation in people who have rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, cluster headaches, colitis, Crohn’s disease, and asthma. Make sure to take this herb with food to avoid a mild upset stomach. You can find it in capsule form at your local health food store.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a medicinal herb that is bright yellow and orange in color. Originated from India thousands of years ago, today it is used to flavor various types of foods. There is an ingredient in turmeric called curcumin that contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that also help reduce pain. Healthline.com states that turmeric has been shown to fight and treat age-related brain diseases, depression, cancer, and lower the risk of heart disease.
Photo courtesy of healthline.com
In a 4-week study, participants were given 1,500 milligrams of turmeric extract daily, which worked just as well as 1,200 mg of ibuprofen to relieve their pain. To add exotic flavor to food, use a half teaspoon in your next recipe.
Omega-3s and Fish Oil
We eat our fish and take our supplements because we’ve heard the reports that they are good for our heart and help prevent heart disease, but did you know that the reason for the medicinal benefits is because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory properties? Omega-3 fatty acids may also help to lower blood pressure and reduce triglycerides and slow the development of plaque in the arteries.
Photo courtesy of thinktank.
The American Heart Association recommends that adults eat healthy fish at least two times a week. Fish types that are highest in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, lake trout, and tuna.
What are your tried-and-true methods for decreasing inflammation and pain in the body? Tell us in the comments!
