Prescription drugs may be useful for individuals experiencing acute or chronic pain due to trauma. However, they can also cause short-term damage to the liver, kidneys, and digestive tract, with many pharma meds also leading to severe long-term organ damage. Thus, natural supplements can be a healthy alternative.
Natural Supplements vs. Prescription Drugs
Natural supplements are derived from various parts of plants, such as leaves, bark, roots, and berries, as well as vitamins and minerals. Traditional cultures often incorporate these items into their diets to treat pain and chronic conditions. However, modern lifestyles might not allow for taking in herbs with every meal. Therefore, including these ingredients as part of your dietary supplement intake might be the more feasible option.
Therapeutic Herbs and Ingredients
- Boswellia: Extracted from the Indian boswellia tree’s gum, Boswellia serrata is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for inflammations. Research reveals that the acids in boswellia extract halt the formation of leukotrienes, immune cells that cause inflammation. This action enables unobstructed blood flow to the joints for healing and enhanced mobility.
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Devil’s Claw: Used by South African tribes for centuries to alleviate arthritis pain, this claw-shaped fruit from the Kalahari Desert has strong natural properties akin to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Studies in France and Germany even claim that the effects of devil’s claw are similar to cortisone.
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Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan: This potent herbal patent formula from traditional Chinese medicine is a combination of 14 herbs that alleviate rheumatoid arthritis (RA), general rheumatism, and sciatica symptoms. It inhibits inflammation and pain while improving microphages’ abilities to remove inflammatory tissue and increasing blood circulation.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in abundance in cold-water fish such as cod, trout, and salmon, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation. Research from Cardiff University, Great Britain, shows that cod liver oil helps ease pain, alleviate morning stiffness, regenerate joint tissue, and relieve some autoimmune disease symptoms like RA, lupus, and psoriasis.
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Paractin: Derived from the medicinal herb Andrographis paniculata, Paractin is a clinically proven extract that helps balance the immune system. It interrupts signals that cause inflammation and significantly reduces joint pain, making it an effective supplement ingredient for arthritis and multiple sclerosis patients.
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Rutin: This flavonoid composite helps maintain reduced glutathione levels that, in turn, minimize cellular damage and inflammation. Rutin’s anti-inflammatory potential is attributed to its potent antioxidant activity, which stems from natural sources such as black tea and apple peels.
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SAMe (S-Adenosyl methionine): This natural chemical created within the body has been duplicated in labs and converted into a supplement. Studies reveal that SAMe’s pain-relieving effects are comparable to Celebrex, without the side effects. It has been proven effective for osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis symptoms.
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Thunder God Vine: This vine, native to China, Korea, and Japan, is known to relieve arthritis, especially RA. It contains properties that regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, making it suitable for autoimmune and inflammatory ailments.
Taking Supplements Safely
Natural supplements offer gentle benefits to the body, though they usually do not work as rapidly as prescription drugs in pain or inflammation relief. They give brief relief in the short term but are more effective over extended periods.
To reach a level of significant change, supplements need to build up in your system. This process typically requires taking them multiple times daily, over weeks, months, or longer. Following the guidelines listed on their labels is the best way to consume them, as these directions usually indicate minimum doses.
If you have acute conditions, consult an educated healthcare provider with a background in nutrition and supplements, such as a naturopathic physician, a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, or an Ayurvedic specialist. These professionals follow studies on supplement functionality and interactions with prescription medications, ensuring that you receive safe and effective advice.
