Herbal Analgesic's: Your Guide to Fighting Pain Naturally

We spend millions of dollars a year as a country in the USA on pain relief. With the rise of narcotic addiction and dangerous side effects from over the counter pain relievers, many people are turning to herbal therapies. Herbs are generally safe and gentle yet effective if used correctly. Herbal analgesics are cost effective and are non addictive. It is also thought that growing your own medicine can also be a catalyst for healing.

Pain is defined as neuralgia, an unpleasant sensory experience associated with tissue damage. The nerves in your body send a response to the brain which allows the body to feel pain. Pain can constant (chronic) or fleeting and come and go (acute). All of us have suffered from pain at one or another whether it be from injury, childbirth, sore muscles or headaches. Sometimes you can ignore pain but many times you may need something to help you along.

There are many herbs that are very useful and effective for pain relief. Many are safe for everyone but some should be avoided during pregnancy or while nursing. If you have any health issues currently it would be wise to research an herbs you plan to use and consult a qualified herbalist.

The following are 10 common and most effective herbal analgesics and what they are indicated for.

Cramp Bark-(viburnum opulus) Is used for muscle spasms, uterine and stomach cramping. Great for relieving menstrual pain and muscle pain. Works rapidly. Also lowers blood pressure as it relaxes the walls of the blood vessels. Used as a tincture or a tea. Can also take in capsule form.

White Willow-(salix alba) not actually n herb but a tree. White willow is a bark as is considered natures aspirin. Modern day aspirin is actually a synthetic version of willow bark. It is great for pain associated with inflammation from muscle issues to toothaches and headaches. Does not pose any side effects like actual aspirin and is very safe. Unlike aspirin it will not effect blood platelets so will not work as a blood thinner. Works well for both chronic and acute pain. Used in tincture form. The dosage will vary from 20-60 drops.