Patients experiencing pain often need medication to relieve their symptoms. However, those who suffer from chronic pain may want to consider taking alternative or holistic pain medication rather than risk the side effects of prescription or over-the-counter treatments.
Joint Pain
Omega 3 fatty acids, like fish oil, help create healthy cell membranes and keep joints free of inflammation---a boon for those with disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. Enzymes, such as pancreatin, bromelain and papain, also may help relieve swelling and pain. The same is true of the detoxifier MSM. Another option is devil's claw, which has been used to treat arthritis and also boost benefits of conventional drugs.
Back Pain
Herbal supplements and homeopathic medicines, which are commonly available in powder, capsule or tea form, have been known to relieve chronic back pain. Among the options are kava kava, valerian root, Jamaica dogwood and boswellin. Arnica Montana often is recommended in cases where back trauma has occurred, while rhus toxicodendron can improve lower back stiffness and pain.
General Pain
Herbal and homeopathic medicines may be used to treat generalized aches and pains, too. One choice is white willow bark, an aspirin alternative. Aesculus can address dull, nagging pain, while lycopodium might be beneficial to those experiencing burning pain.
