Ibuprofen causes the most amount of toxicity reports and overdoses when mixed with other substances than any other anti-inflammatory drug.
Luckily, there are other, more natural, ways to reduce inflammation and combat severe pain. A natural alternative to ibuprofen reduces the risk of prolonged dependence on drugs and benefits your overall health.
Use these organic herbs and minerals, simple practices, and beneficial foods to eliminate Ibuprofen from your life.
1. Acupuncture
There are over 400 points on the body that connect with certain organs and energy pathways. The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture stimulates these points using tiny needles.
One of the main uses of acupuncture is its natural pain management ability. It works by triggering the pituitary gland to distribute cortisol throughout the body. This is a hormone that reduces inflammation naturally.
This procedure can also release chemicals in the brain like serotonin, which is the body’s way of easing pain.
The great aspect of acupuncture is that it can target areas that are particularly inflamed. Ibuprofen travels throughout the bloodstream and organs regardless of where the pain is located.
2. CBD Oil
The newest all-natural pain remedy is the use of cannabis cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol). CBD has become popular in the last few years as its legality has spread nationally in the U.S.
It is now legal to sell and use CBD as long as the THC level is below .3%. THC is the component that produces a high. Without it, CBD acts as a medicinal herb that interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system.
This is the part of the brain that releases chemicals to regulate homeostasis in the body. CBD sends signals to the receptors to release more chemicals when inflammation or pain is present.
You can use this CBD dosage guide to determine how much CBD oil you should try.
3. Turmeric
Most commonly used as a spice in curries and Southeast Asian cooking, its powder and root form have many medicinal benefits.
The turmeric root has been used for centuries as a herbal pain reliever. It works by increasing blood flow and working as an antioxidant by targeting free radicals that can cause health issues.
This makes it a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine as it cleanses the entire body through the bloodstream.
4. White Willow Bark
The pain relief power of this tree bark is so strong that aspirin’s main ingredient mimics its chemical compound, salicin.
It used to be chewed as a remedy for fevers and pain but now it can be bought in capsules or as a dried herb for tea. There is also a liquid tincture that can be dropped on the tongue or mixed with a beverage.
Since it does resemble the reaction of aspirin, it also has similar side effects. It can cause stomach irritation and be harmful to the kidneys if taken too often. Children should not take the herb and it should not be mixed with other drugs.
5. Yoga
Not all anti-inflammatory remedies need to be ingested. Your body has the ability to improve circulation and act as a stress reducer by simple moving. This leads to a lower level of inflammation and pain.
Yoga poses and breathing techniques manage inflammation for the long-term when practiced regularly. This is the best way to promote a healthy lifestyle as it can build muscle and keep your flexible.
6. Cloves
Most known for its ability to flavor food, clove’s robust properties are also strong medicines.
Eugenol found in cloves is an all-natural pain relief chemical that is often used in pain creams. Clove oils are perfect for applying to sore gums or temples to ease headaches.
Users should be cautious about using cloves too much, as it can lead to bleeding disorders if taken with some blood thinners.
7. Magnesium
Many people are deficient in magnesium and might not know it until they start a supplement.
Supplements can treat pain associated with fibromyalgia, poor circulation leading to muscle spasms, and migraines caused by inflammation.
You can also increase your magnesium through your diet. Nuts, seeds, and whole grains offer an easy way to increase your magnesium levels.
8. Epsom Salt
Another way to increase magnesium is through its natural source of sulfate found in Epsom salt.
When dissolved in water like a warm bath, the salt is absorbed through the skin to relieve pain and target inflammation. It can also treat fungal infections and reduce swelling.
9. Ginger
Natural alternatives to NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) should always include the power of ginger. Just like turmeric, ginger is a root that targets inflammation while acting as an antioxidant.
Ginger is also safe to use every day and can be added to food and tea or taken as a supplement.
10. Essential Oils
There are dozens of essential oils that offer beneficial properties. Just about any herb, flower, or plant can be condensed into an oil extract.
You can combine oils like lavender and thyme to reduce inflammation and pain while relieving stress with your favorite scent.
Natural Alternative to Ibuprofen is the Healthy Option
A natural alternative to ibuprofen will limit the harmful effects of chemical-made drugs. They also do not require life-long dependence or give you withdrawal symptoms.
Natural medicine has minimal side effects and can benefit your body when taken as a health supplement.
For more ways to improve your health, check out the health and wellness section of our blog. Leave a comment about ways that you manage your pain naturally.