These natural pain relievers fall under a category of treatment known as alternative medicine, which also includes acupuncture , yoga , reiki , and other practices.

There can be a lot of benefits to easing pain and inflammation more naturally, but keep in mind that these natural remedies can occasionally interfere with other medications you are taking.

Furthermore, some natural pain relievers have not been well studied in humans especially when it comes to dosage , and many supplements are not tested by an independent lab to ensure quality or safety.

Supplements are also not regulated for quality by the Food and Drug Administration FDA like drugs are. Boswellia, otherwise known as frankincense, is often used in Ayurvedic medicine. The resin from Boswellia serrata trees is what is typically turned into tinctures, pills, or topical treatments.

Boswellia is often used to treat :. A study involving people found that Boswellia was an effective, safe treatment for osteoarthritis OA , easing pain and stiffness. While Boswellia is generally safe, topical application can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

It may also negatively interact with certain medications, including anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs. Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its signature yellow hue and unique flavor.

It contains the compound curcumin, an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radical molecules that can damage cells.

It has also been well studied for its ability to ease swelling and reduce inflammation. Though most commonly used as a spice, turmeric is also available in supplement form and is often paired with piperine, a compound found in black pepper, to increase its absorption.

Turmeric may be useful for the treatment of many conditions, including :. Some of the most common side effects include :. Be sure to talk with a doctor before using turmeric supplements. Stop using them if you experience any negative side effects.

Whole cloves are often used to spice up meat and rice dishes. Ground cloves are used in pies and many other foods. Cloves can be found in capsule or powder form. Clove oil is also available and can be applied topically to reduce pain.

Clove is often used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as:. Some research also suggests that clove could be used to treat fungal infections, but more high quality studies in humans are needed. When used as a supplement, cloves may be associated with side effects such as:.

Though clove oil can be applied topically to treat issues such as toothache pain , undiluted clove oil may actually hurt your gums, so be sure to talk with a dentist before trying it at home.

People with bleeding disorders or those who are taking blood-thinning medication should also be careful when consuming clove products, as clove and clove oil can increase the risk of bleeding. For this practice, acupuncturists insert tiny, thin needles into your skin.

The location of the insertion is related to the source of the pain. Based on the qi, a needle may be inserted far from the part of the body experiencing pain. It is also believed to reduce stress levels and promote healing in the body. Acupuncture may help provide relief from several types of pain, including :.

Acupuncture may be linked to several potential side effects. Among the most common home pain remedies is applying heat and ice directly to sites of pain. While this treatment may seem obvious, not everyone is clear on exactly when to use ice versus heat.

Applying an ice pack to reduce swelling and inflammation shortly after you experience a strained muscle, tendon, or ligament may bring relief. Interestingly, once the inflammation has decreased, heat may help reduce the stiffness that comes with sprains and strains.

A heating pad or cold pack used briefly on the head may also help reduce the pain of a headache, while an ice pack can help relieve low back pain. If your painful problem is arthritis, moist heat applied to the affected joint will help more than ice.

Moist heat packs can be warmed in the microwave and used many times, making them effective and easy to use. Applying heat or ice to an injury for too long could increase the risk of burns and other side effects.

If you get injured or experience chronic pain, talk with a doctor or pharmacist about how to best use heat or ice to help ease the pain. The natural pain relievers described above may only be effective for specific causes of pain and may not work for everyone.

However, these natural options may at least give you a few options to try, either alone or paired with prescription or OTC medications.

RELATED: CBD drug interactions CBD statistics. In fact, research shows that massage therapy is a great complementary treatment option for muscle and joint pain.

It works by relaxing sore muscles and joints and reducing stress and tension. After a massage, you may be more flexible and able to continue with a stretching regimen to help keep muscles loose.

Studies about acupuncture, a form of integrative medicine , have consistently demonstrated its effectiveness as a natural pain reliever, particularly for joint pain including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis , headaches, and neck and back pain. During treatment , your acupuncturist will insert four to 10 needles and leave them in place for up to 30 minutes.

This will be repeated up to 12 times over the course of several months. Exercise has been associated with an increase in endorphins, a decrease in stress hormones and an increased pain threshold , says Brijesh Chandwani, DMD, BDS , a dentist and orofacial pain specialist at Connecticut and NY TMJ.

In a study of individuals with chronic pain, exercise decreased the severity of pain and enhanced physical function. To reap the benefits , try a combination of strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and gentle stretching.

Mindfulness meditation plays an important role in reducing pain, according to Dr. Self-regulation techniques like deep breathing, listening to relaxing music, or practicing a mental head-to-toe body scan can help deepen the mind-body connection.

And practicing mindfulness cultivates a self-awareness that helps you experience pain with less anxiety and more acceptance, enhancing your quality of life.

Research suggests that aromatherapy with lavender, peppermint, and rosemary essential oils can be effective at lessening back and neck pain, knee pain, menstrual pain, headaches, arthritis pain, and post-operative pain. To benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of these oils, rub a few drops into the affected area just make sure the oil is diluted.

You can also use an infuser or place a few drops on your pillow to inhale the fragrance. Also known as frankincense, the herb boswellia serrata is an effective anti-inflammatory agent and analgesic. According to research , boswellia is helpful at reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis; a dose of mg per day is recommended by the Arthritis Foundation, but check with your doctor before using boswellia or other herbal remedies.

Magnesium and zinc are the best supplements for pain. RELATED: Which magnesium supplement is right for me? Ibuprofen is the most commonly prescribed painkiller for children and adults.

But if your pain is long-lasting, Naproxen is a better option, because a dose lasts up to 12 hours. Acetaminophen and low-dose aspirin have generally been considered the safest over-the-counter analgesics during pregnancy, Dr.

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A study concludes that feverfew may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. Feverfew can cause side effects such as nausea, digestive problems, and bloating.

So, it is important to talk with a qualified healthcare professional before trying feverfew. Curcuma, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric , has pain-relieving qualities. A review claims that curcumin shows a reduction in pain similar to that of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs.

However, researchers recommend turmeric as a safe adjunction to NSAID therapy rather than in place of it. Turmeric is also a common herbal remedy for reducing inflammation.

To include turmeric in its natural form in the diet, a person could try adding it to curries, smoothies, or juices. Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that advocates believe can help reduce pain. Recent research supports these beliefs. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH states that acupuncture can help with certain types of pain, including:.

It may also reduce how frequently people get tension headaches and could help prevent migraine headaches. A meta-analysis found that acupuncture is an effective way to manage chronic pain.

The researchers concluded that acupuncture could help with musculoskeletal pain, headache, and pain associated with osteoarthritis. More research into the effects of acupuncture for other pain conditions is now needed, but increasing evidence is suggesting that acupuncture is effective for many types of pain.

In fact, acupuncture may help in more than different conditions. Yoga is a physical meditation practice that may offer a way to manage pain naturally. Managing back pain often includes stretching and physical therapy. Yoga provides this.

It incorporates breathing exercises , self-care, and relaxation methods, so practicing yoga may also relieve pain related to stress or anxiety.

A study found that 12 weeks of yoga helped to significantly reduce lower back pain. The NCCIH states that yoga may help relieve lower back pain and neck pain, but that there is not enough evidence that it can help for other conditions, such as headache, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

People experiencing chronic pain are increasingly turning to mindfulness meditation as a natural treatment.

More research is needed, but initial studies are promising. A systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 38 studies and eventually concluded that mindfulness meditation can improve pain symptoms, depression, and quality of life.

However, the authors say that larger studies are needed to see exactly how effective it is. Essential oils, such as lavender oil and peppermint oil, may relieve pain naturally. This is also the case for certain herbs such as clove and feverfew.

Acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness meditation are thought to be natural pain relievers too. Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and heat and cold treatment can be home remedies that alleviate pain quickly.

When a person takes traditional pain relief medication as prescribed, with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, it is a safe and effective way to manage pain.

Natural pain relievers, however, offer an alternative for people who want to avoid the long term side effects of pain relief medication. People can use essential oils by adding a few drops to a tissue or a steam bath and inhaling the vapor. People can also add the herbs and spices listed above to food.

However, if a person is unable to do that, they can instead take them as supplements. Not every natural pain reliever will work for everyone.

Some people may find that a natural option that works well for them in the long term. Others may not be able to manage pain naturally and may prefer traditional medication.

Anyone with severe pain, including pain related to an existing health condition, should speak with a qualified healthcare professional. They can advise how best to manage this. Chronic pain is complex, and it can take some time to work out the best methods for pain relief.

Read about various pain relief techniques here. A number of natural and non-drug remedies may help relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Find out how rest, flotation therapy, acupuncture, and others….

Back pain is a widespread and potentially debilitating problem. Learn which home remedies can relieve back pain quickly and help prevent it in the…. Some people with osteoarthritis may find that natural treatments ease their symptoms.

Learn about the natural treatment options, including heat and…. My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health? Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut Tools General Health Drugs A-Z Health Hubs Health Tools Find a Doctor BMI Calculators and Charts Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide Sleep Calculator Quizzes RA Myths vs Facts Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction Connect About Medical News Today Who We Are Our Editorial Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Newsletters Sign Up Follow Us.

Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. Human Biology. Nervous system Cardiovascular system Respiratory system Digestive system Immune system. Medically reviewed by Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC-BC — By Lana Burgess — Updated on October 26, Lavender Rosemary Peppermint Eucalyptus Cloves Capsaicin Ginger Feverfew Turmeric Acupuncture Yoga Mindfulness meditation FAQ Summary There are various natural ways to cure, manage, or relieve pain.

Share on Pinterest Getty Images. Lavender essential oil. Rosemary essential oil. Peppermint essential oil. Eucalyptus essential oil. Mindfulness meditation. Frequently asked questions. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations.

We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles.

You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. It helps to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and release endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body.

Low-impact exercises such as swimming, yoga, and walking are particularly effective for people with chronic pain as they do not put excessive strain on the joints.

Ginger — is a natural anti-inflammatory that has been used for centuries to treat pain and inflammation. It contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain.

Ginger can be consumed in various forms, including ginger tea, ginger supplements, and fresh ginger root. Turmeric — is a spice that contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

It has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain. Turmeric can be consumed in various forms, including turmeric supplements and as a spice in cooking.

Massage Therapy — is an effective natural pain reliever for chronic pain. It works by reducing muscle tension, increasing blood flow, and releasing endorphins.

Studies have shown that massage therapy can be effective in treating chronic pain associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and lower back pain. Mindfulness Meditation — is a mind-body practice shown to be effective in reducing chronic pain that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment.

It works by reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can help to reduce pain levels. Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can help to reduce chronic pain associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia and back pain.

Ice — is an extremely effective anti-inflammatory pain-reliever for acute musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical incisions, dental issues, and is even commonly used for pain after delivery in Obstetrical wards in European countries.

Heat — is well-known for easing the pain and stiffness of arthritis and joint-related issues. Capsaicin is a compound found in chili peppers, known for being spicy and for causing a burning sensation on the skin.

Capsaicin is believed to work by reducing the production of a chemical compound called substance P, which is involved in transmitting pain signals to the brain.

Acupuncture can also be a beneficial modality of treatment to relieve pain. It is best to speak to your doctor about which complimentary medical therapies can be right for you. Updated April by Bhakti Shah, MD, and reviewed by the American College of Rheumatology Committee on Communications and Marketing.

This information is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition.

Herbal Remedies For over 5, years, herbs have been used for their medicinal properties. Herbal Remedies and Supplements for Arthritis Osteoarthritis is a degenerative arthritis caused by wear and tear of the joints. Acupuncture for Arthritis Developed in Asia over 2, years ago, acupuncture is a treatment modality consisting of needles which are inserted into the skin at specific points along meridians or channels which are deemed to be associated with various organ and bodily functions.

For More Information In conclusion, many herbal remedies and supplements are available on the market to manage pain. It works by reducing muscle tension, increasing blood flow, and releasing endorphins. Studies have shown that massage therapy can be effective in treating chronic pain associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and lower back pain.

Mindfulness Meditation — is a mind-body practice shown to be effective in reducing chronic pain that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment.

It works by reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can help to reduce pain levels. Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can help to reduce chronic pain associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia and back pain.

Ice — is an extremely effective anti-inflammatory pain-reliever for acute musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical incisions, dental issues, and is even commonly used for pain after delivery in Obstetrical wards in European countries.

Heat — is well-known for easing the pain and stiffness of arthritis and joint-related issues. Capsaicin is a compound found in chili peppers, known for being spicy and for causing a burning sensation on the skin.

Capsaicin is believed to work by reducing the production of a chemical compound called substance P, which is involved in transmitting pain signals to the brain. Several studies have shown that capsaicin can reduce pain in people with conditions such as osteoarthritis and neuropathic pain.

Make An Appointment. Schedule Online. A study found that 12 weeks of yoga helped to significantly reduce lower back pain.

The NCCIH states that yoga may help relieve lower back pain and neck pain, but that there is not enough evidence that it can help for other conditions, such as headache, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

People experiencing chronic pain are increasingly turning to mindfulness meditation as a natural treatment. More research is needed, but initial studies are promising.

A systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 38 studies and eventually concluded that mindfulness meditation can improve pain symptoms, depression, and quality of life. However, the authors say that larger studies are needed to see exactly how effective it is. Essential oils, such as lavender oil and peppermint oil, may relieve pain naturally.

This is also the case for certain herbs such as clove and feverfew. Acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness meditation are thought to be natural pain relievers too.

Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and heat and cold treatment can be home remedies that alleviate pain quickly. When a person takes traditional pain relief medication as prescribed, with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, it is a safe and effective way to manage pain.

Natural pain relievers, however, offer an alternative for people who want to avoid the long term side effects of pain relief medication. People can use essential oils by adding a few drops to a tissue or a steam bath and inhaling the vapor.

People can also add the herbs and spices listed above to food. However, if a person is unable to do that, they can instead take them as supplements. Not every natural pain reliever will work for everyone. Some people may find that a natural option that works well for them in the long term.

Others may not be able to manage pain naturally and may prefer traditional medication. Anyone with severe pain, including pain related to an existing health condition, should speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

They can advise how best to manage this. Chronic pain is complex, and it can take some time to work out the best methods for pain relief. Read about various pain relief techniques here.

A number of natural and non-drug remedies may help relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Find out how rest, flotation therapy, acupuncture, and others…. Back pain is a widespread and potentially debilitating problem. Learn which home remedies can relieve back pain quickly and help prevent it in the….

Some people with osteoarthritis may find that natural treatments ease their symptoms. Learn about the natural treatment options, including heat and….

My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health? Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut Tools General Health Drugs A-Z Health Hubs Health Tools Find a Doctor BMI Calculators and Charts Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide Sleep Calculator Quizzes RA Myths vs Facts Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction Connect About Medical News Today Who We Are Our Editorial Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Newsletters Sign Up Follow Us.

Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. Human Biology. Nervous system Cardiovascular system Respiratory system Digestive system Immune system. Medically reviewed by Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC-BC — By Lana Burgess — Updated on October 26, Lavender Rosemary Peppermint Eucalyptus Cloves Capsaicin Ginger Feverfew Turmeric Acupuncture Yoga Mindfulness meditation FAQ Summary There are various natural ways to cure, manage, or relieve pain.

Share on Pinterest Getty Images. Lavender essential oil. Rosemary essential oil. Peppermint essential oil. Eucalyptus essential oil. Mindfulness meditation. Frequently asked questions. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations.