5 Natural Alternatives to Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a popular pain reliever that belongs to a class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The drug is currently available both with and without a prescription. It is also used to relieve the characteristic symptoms of diseases and conditions such as menstrual discomfort, arthritis flare-ups and headaches.
But while ibuprofen is effective as a pain reliever, it is also associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. And with a view to avoiding these dangers, below are 5 natural alternatives to ibuprofen that will provide you with relief.
Boswellia
The strong anti-inflammatory properties of this Indian plant are due to the boswellic acids it contains, which have been shown to improve blood circulation, including to the joints and prevent the progression of inflammatory processes by inhibiting the entry of white blood cells into the affected tissues.
Boswellia is available in most pharmacies as a topical cream and is also known as Indian frankincense.
Capsaicin
This is the compound that gives hot peppers their specific taste. It can be used locally to relieve nerve, muscle and joint pain.
Scientifically, its analgesic properties have been found to be due to the fact that it inhibits the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
It is offered in the form of creams or gels, which are of different effectiveness. But it is necessary to wash hands after using products with the active ingredient capsaicin and avoid contact with eyes.
Curcumin
The active ingredient of the popular spice turmeric acts as a pain reliever, blocking proteins that can stimulate the development of an inflammatory process.
Curcumin also blocks the function of neurotransmitters and stops sending pain signals to the brain.
The active ingredient of turmeric also has additional properties that are associated with a reduction in the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease, as well as some types of malignant diseases.
Curcumin can be taken in tablet form or added to foods.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Fatty acids, found in foods like salmon and other cold-water fish and in some nuts like walnuts, have strong anti-inflammatory properties.
They have been shown to be beneficial for people with arthritic conditions or digestive problems such as inflammatory bowel disease. Omega-3 fatty acids help improve heart function by lowering blood pressure and act as natural blood thinners.
White willow bark
The active ingredient in the bark is salicin, which is converted in the stomach to salicylic acid, which is identical to aspirin.
Although white willow bark has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, unlike aspirin it does not irritate the stomach and can be used daily to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and lower body weight. feverish temperature. It is usually taken as a tincture and can be diluted with water.
Ibuprofen can be an effective pain reliever, but with more frequent use it can cause serious health problems that are best avoided.
The natural alternatives mentioned above do not cause such complications, but provide identical pain relief and help to limit and subsequently completely eliminate inflammatory processes.
