Any type of pain is …a pain!
But we need to remember that pain is our body’s way of telling something isn’t right. By listening to our body and addressing the cause, we can create a plan to manage or combat or manage pain efficiently and effectively.
A Naturopathic approach to managing pain may include applying a combination of herbs, nutritional and lifestyle strategies to reduce inflammation and improve the strength, structure and function of the underlying tissues and systems of the body that are being affected. Not only do we need to take into account the physical factors involved, but also how the condition can affect emotionally and mentally; as well as how it affects our ability to move, work and play. One study on back pain followed 100 people over a course of four years. The study reported that participants who scored low on the psychological tests were three times more likely to experience back pain by the end of the four years.
There are 3 top herbal remedies I use for reducing pain in my patients….
MY TOP 3 HERBS FOR PAIN:
CURCUMIN
Curcumin is the yellow pigment found in turmeric, a relative of the root ginger. Curcumin has a very powerful anti-inflammatory action that has been widely used to treat joint and conditions. Curcumin supplements can be found commonly these days, but not all supplements are created equally. Curcumin isn’t easily absorbed and requires a specific composition to promote optimal absorption. t Vibe we a uniquely formulated curcumin supplement designed specifically to enhance the absorption of the curcumin superior results in treating inflammation. Curcumin is also recognised for its antioxidant properties, which is essential for contribute to inflammation and pain.
BOSWELLIA
Boswellia is a plant native to Africa and the Middle East that contains a resin traditionally used to treat . Commonly referred to as Indian Frankincense, it is highly valued for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine. The resin contains unique compounds known as Boswellic acids that are responsible for its pain and inflammation relieving actions. They work by blocking inflammatory cells produced by the body in damaged tissue and joints. A recent study showed the superior benefits of a combination of Boswellia and Curcumin versus a common anti-inflammatory drug used for joint pain and arthritis. The results after 4 months of treatment showed that a total of 93% of participants in the herbal supplement group reported an improvement in or elimination of pain, versus 79% in the drug group.
GINGER
Ginger is traditionally used in many cultures in cooking and meal preparation for its warming and digestive properties. Ginger acts as a circulatory stimulant, creating blood flow to the area of tissue damage and pain for healing and repair. It also has a wonderful anti-inflammatory action that is very beneficial for joint and muscle pain. One study showed the pain-relieving effects of ginger – 2g of fresh ginger was taken for 11 days and resulted in reduced pain levels following exercise-induced muscle injury in the study subjects.
Our range of anti-inflammatory herbs allows us to tailor a unique formulation and treatment specifically to suit your health needs.
To book an appointment with Sally please call our friendly reception team on 07 3366 7970 to make an appointment at a time that suits you, or book online anytime.
RESOURCES:
- https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2009/190/9/back-pain-national-health-priority-area-australia
- http://www.aihw.gov.au/back-problems/what-are-back-problems/
- http://www.mercola.com/back-pain.aspx
- http://www.chopra.com/community/online-library/ayurvedic-herbs-foods/boswellia
- http://www.naturalnews.com/034009_boswellia_inflammation.html
- http://www.prohealth.com/library/showarticle.cfm?libid=16554
- Osiecki, H 2006, The Physician’s Handbook of Clinical Nutrition, AG Publishing, Brisbane.
- Sarris, J & Wardle, J 2010, Clincal Naturopathy, Elsevier, Sydney.
