Morphine is an opioid analgesic drug that is often prescribed in the treatment of severe acute and moderate chronic pain. Many patients develop a tolerance to its effects, become addicted, experience side effects or simply cannot tolerate opioids. Depending on the pain type and other medications being taken for medical problems, herbal supplements may be an option. As always, it is imperative to consult a medical doctor before attempting to self-medicate any condition. Mixing medications is never advised unless directed to do so by a physician familiar with your case.
Boswellia
Boswellia, or Boswellia serrata, is a historically Native American remedy used in the treatment of arthritis, bursitis, respiratory conditions and chronic diarrhea. New York University's Langone Medical Center claims that boswellia is drawing attention in medicine for its anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to decrease arthritis pain. Boswellia may benefit morphine users who suffer from pain originating in bones or joints. The typical dosage for boswellia supplements can range from 300 mg three times per day up to 1,200 mg three times daily. While no serious side effects have been reported, there is still insufficient evidence as to whether boswellia is safe for all users.
Willow Bark
Willow bark, or white willow bark, is a well-known analgesic that has been used as a natural aspirin alternative. In topical applications, willow bark shows promise in relieving stubborn migraines that do not respond well to prescription drugs. Williow bark may be helpful in situations where the morphine is no longer necessary but a general pain reliever is. The Longwood Herbal Taskforce suggests that the tannins present in willow bark can cause nausea and vomiting in some users, and that ingesting toxic levels may lead to liver or kidney damage and esophageal cancer. It is important to follow the dosing directions and not to exceed the daily recommended doses. Willow bark should not be taken with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin, as it is marketed--or more commonly referred to as cayenne--is the heat element of the chili pepper. Native Americans have used capsaicin for centuries to treat pain and certain gastrointestinal disorders. According to the University of Kansas Hospital, capsaicin used topically stimulates the pain signals in the body and gently decreases the intensity. Capsaicin may be able to replace heavy opioid use when the condition can be treated topically. The cream can be applied up to four times per day for pain related to surgeries, neuropathy, neuralgia, cluster headaches, joint problems, psoriasis and the mouth sores attributable to cancer treatment. You may experience a burning or itching sensation with contact, but this sensation should dissipate after the first few applications. It is important to thoroughly wash hands after each application and avoid contact with the eyes or broken skin. Cayenne pepper can also be found in capsules or as a culinary spice to be ingested or added to food or beverages. The pills are quite safe for most users with a tolerance to heat.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle, or Urtica dioica, has a rich history of medicinal use dating back to medieval Europe. Traditionally used to treat bloating and arthritis pain, stinging nettle is still used today as a panacea for chronic pain throughout the world without the side effects caused by taking opioids. Not only is the stinging nettle antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, it is a natural painkiller, urinary tract, ulcer and gout treatment due to its potassium, calcium and magnesium content. Like capsaicin, the University of Maryland Medical Center proposes that stinging nettle benefits individuals in pain by stimulating the signals on the skin and thereby decreasing the intensity. Aside from topical applications, the nettles can be prepared as tea, chewed in leaf form, or taken orally in tincture form in 1 to 5 mL doses up to four times per day.
