Natural Alternatives for Pain Relief
One of the most commonly prescribed medicines for pain relief is Hydrocodone. It is usually combined with another analgesic such as paracetamol (Acetaminophen) under the names Vicodin, Lortab, Lorcet, Maxidone, Norco, Zydone. Or it may be combined with aspirin or ibuprophen. This psychoactive compound may play tricks with addicts, because they work like a narcotic, and in fact, it is an opioid that looks remarkably similar in chemical constituency to the opium poppy! So what is an addict in pain to do? While we do understand the need for physical relief, there are a few natural compounds that may also provide relief from pain and we encourage you to explore them. Chronic inflammation makes you hurt, so look to add more anti-inflammatory foods to your regular daily diet and see if that helps.
Blueberries and Other Berries
Blueberries are a natural anti-inflammatory food along with most other berries, such as raspberries, blackberries and strawberries. Berries are often grown under questionable conditions, so opt for organic berries, if possible. Berries help contribute to the development of Heat Shock Proteins (HSP), which may help with wound healing and stress.
Cayenne Pepper
The spicy element in peppers, capsaicin is a natural anti-inflammatory! So pile on the spice.
Celery and Celery Seeds
According to the book, the Green Pharmacy by James Duke, Ph.D., there are over 20 anti-inflammatory compounds in celery. So eat it raw as a snack. Add it to your salads and soups.
Cherries
Several scientific studies showcase cherries as an alternative to aspirin. Tart cherry extract has been shown to be ten times as effective at relieving inflammation!
Dark Green Veggies
Minerals like calcium and magnesium help alleviate inflammation and dark green veggies like kale and spinach are full of those minerals.
Flax Seeds
Ground flax seeds and flax seed oil are loaded with EFAs and are anti-inflammatory.
Ginger and Turmeric
These ancient herbs and colorful roots, which are high in phytonutrients, have been scientifically found to provide better anti-inflammatory results than non-steroidal drugs! They may help suppress pain without the side effects.
Walnuts
Like flax, walnuts contain great amounts of Omega 3 EFAs and may help bring pain relief through their natural anti-inflammatory action.