Pain is an agonizing sensation that results from real or perceived bodily injury. While there are a number of pain medications on the market, many can cause unwanted side effects. Opiates, for example, are known for their high risk of addiction and overdose, while Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of bleeding. There are many herbs for body pain, some of which may be comparable in strength to pharmaceutical analgesics while presenting a lower risk of side effects.
Willow Bark
Willow bark is a useful herb for treating pain associated with inflammation. It contains the same active compound as aspirin and can be used to treat pain caused by minor injury, menstrual cramps, toothache and arthritis. According to the National Institutes of Health, willow bark may reduce the need for prescription pain relievers in patients with lower back pain. In addition, it may be less likely to cause stomach irritation than aspirin when brewed into a tea, due to the dilution of salicylin, willow bark's active compound.
The usual dose of willow bark for treating inflammation and pain is 120 to 240 mg., or roughly 55 mg. salicylin per day. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and increased risk for bleeding. Willow bark should not be taken with other anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin due to its blood thinning effects.
Kratom
Kratom---known in the scientific world as Mitragyna speciosa---is a powerful painkilling herb with opiate-like effects. It has been used traditionally in Thailand to decrease pain and improve productivity in peasant workers. According to the National Institutes of Health, kratom contains a compound called 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is comparable to morphine in its potency and effects. Kratom targets mu-opioid receptors, which are also affected by opiates like codeine and other prescription painkillers.
Because it can cause opiate-like euphoria and relaxation, kratom has the potential to cause abuse and addiction. To reduce these risks, don't use kratom if you have a history of substance abuse and avoid frequent or repeated use. Kratom may increase the risk for respiratory depression and cardiac arrest when taken with other depressants like alcohol or opiates.
Valerian Root
Valerian root,also referred to as "nature's Valium," can be an effective complementary therapy for certain types of muscle pain. It contains valerenic acid, which is largely responsible for its relaxing effects. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, valerian root decreases the destruction of GABA---a neurotransmitter responsible for nerve excitability and muscle tone. It binds directly to GABA receptors, resulting in muscle relaxation and feelings of mental calmness. It may be helpful for treating the pain of menstrual cramps, angina (chest pains) and TMJ dysfunction. In addition, valerian may help relieve the anxiety and insomnia that sometimes accompany severe muscle pain.
The typical dose of valerian root for treating muscle pain is between 300 and 900 mg daily. Valerian may impair your ability to drive and perform other potentially dangerous activities, and should not be taken with alcohol and other depressants.
