What Are Chinese Herbs For Pain?

In 2006, the National Center for Health Statistics reported that more than 26 percent of American adults have had a problem with pain that lasted more than 24 hours. They also estimated that the annual cost of chronic pain in the United States is $100 billion. The most common pain complaints are low back pain, severe headaches, neck and facial pain. Chinese herbs are a natural alternative to over-the-counter and prescription pain medications. Consult with a certified Chinese herbalist prior to taking Chinese herbs for pain.

Yan Hu Suo

Yan hu suo is also known as corydalis. This herb's primary use is pain relief. It has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxant effects. It can relieve pain in all parts of the body including chest, epigastric, abdominal and gynecological pain. Yan hu suo also treats pain in the arms and legs and helps reduce masses such as benign tumors. It can calm the nervous system and have a sedative effect, so use caution while driving or operating heavy machinery. Do not take this herb if you are pregnant.

San Qi

San qi, or pseudoginseng, can stop bleeding and relieve pain. This herb primarily treats pain from traumatic injuries since it can stop bleeding, improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. San qi has anti-platelet effects and calms your nervous system. You can take this herb internally or apply the powder topically at the site of your injury. San qi may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, headache, toothache, fatigue and restlessness. Avoid taking this herb if you are pregnant.

Chuan Xiong

Chuan xiong is also known as Sichuan lovage rhizome. This herb can dilate your blood vessels, reduce the formation of platelets, inhibit smooth muscle contractions and have a sedative effect on your nervous system. According to John Chen, Ph.D., a chinese medical herbologist and pharmacologist, chuan xiong is essential to relieve all kinds of aches and pains, particularly headaches. It can relieve menstrual pain, chest pain, musculoskeletal pain and joint pain. Use this herb with caution if you are taking anticoagulant or anti-platelet drugs.