Anti-Inflammatory & Pain-Relieving Herbs
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel (acemannan) is a complex polysaccharide found in the inner leaf gel of the aloe plant, which contains many nutritional qualities and is immensely responsible for all of the health benefits that the aloe vera plant provides. Scientific research has shown that aloe vera gel supports the immune and digestive systems. You can use aloe vera gel to soothe skin complaints, such as itchy rashes, sunburn, vaginal complaints, and hemorrhoids. Just be sure your topical gel doesn't contain alcohol (ouch!). You can also take capsules to help ease bladder pain. Also, see my HSV Remedy Review: Aloe Vera.
Birch Bark
Birch bark is anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. When applied topically, birch bark helps ease muscle pain. Use the fresh, wet inside of the bark against the skin. Birch leaf is usually used in medicinal preparations, such as tea.
Anyone sensitive to salicylates or Aspirin should avoid Birch bark. Don't use Birch bark if you are on blood-thinning medication, are elderly, or are pregnant or nursing. Also, avoid using Birch Bark essential oil, as it can be toxic in small amounts.
Cannabis (Marijuana/Hemp)
I'm not a cannabis expert, not by a long shot. After I gave birth to my daughter, I became highly allergic to it, so I don't tend to research cannabis remedies. Does it work for pain? Yes. But here's the thing. Cannabis labels are confusing, at best. Here's what you need to know.
Hemp (cannabis sativa) and marijuana are the same species (cannabis). There's no scientific difference between hemp and marijuana except for how much cannabinoid they contain. Not all cannabis contains THC (the chemical that gets you high). The term "Hemp" is used when the cannabis contains 0.3 percent or less. For example, the cannabis oil found at Whole Foods Market is a food oil and has no THC in it. Then there are spectrums. For instance, Hemp Full Spectrum and CBD Full Spectrum contain more than 0.3% THC, while the Broad Spectrum contains no THC.
You don't have to use a brand containing THC to ease pain. It's not the THC that does that. It's cannabidiol, which you can take internally in the form of a supplement or apply topically as a cream to ease neurodegenerative problems and pain.
Cloves
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) relieve nervous irritability. When applied topically, cloves also help alleviate pain. While cloves have antimicrobial and some antiviral properties (as do many spices), they are best known for relieving tooth pain. When used this way, you can gently bite down on a whole clove. However, when applying clove to the skin, the preferred method is to use clove essential oil. To avoid stinging or burning, dilute clove essential oil before applying topically. A little goes a long way. Cloves also add chai flavor to beverages.
Calendula
Calendula (marigold) is a member of the daisy family. Calendula has some antiviral properties, but it is best known for its wound-healing properties and may help seal an infection when applied topically.
You can make tea with dried calendula leaves and apply the fresh leaves topically to relieve the pain of blisters and hemorrhoids. Add one heaping teaspoon of dried calendula leaves to 8 ounces of boiling water. Steep for at least 3 minutes, then strain. Allow it to cool, and apply it to the skin. You can also drink calendula tea made from petals. It's full of antioxidants. You can use calendula oil in many pain-relieving formulas.
Note: Calendula shouldn't be used in early pregnancy and may cause Atopic Dermatitis in some people.
Turmeric Root
Turmeric root is anti-inflammatory, and its active ingredient is curcumin. Turmeric root is often used in teas, while curcumin is available as a supplement. Turmeric is also available in capsule form and is frequently paired with a small amount of black pepper to enhance its bioavailability. However, more bioavailable brands no longer add it. I add pepper, ginger, and other ingredients to my truly delicious and soothing anti-inflammatory turmeric tea recipe.
Willow Bark
Willow bark is anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. However, you should avoid Willow bark if you're sensitive to salicylates or salicin, which Aspirin is made from. Willow bark can be taken as a tea (3-4 times daily), as capsules (a suggested dosage is 225 mg of bark four times daily, or as directed on the label), or infused in carrier oils for topical application to relieve pain. When taken as tea, 1-2 cups would be considered equivalent to taking low-dose Aspirin, which many doctors recommend for heart attack prevention.
Note: Don't use Willow bark if you take blood-thinning medication, are elderly, pregnant, or nursing. Willow bark shouldn't be used internally for longer than twelve weeks. I provide instructions for making Willow bark tea here.
