Did you know foods can be used as natural pain killers? And they have been for thousands of years. Medications, even over-the-counter, can have side effects, but natural remedies can be just as potent as those medicines without major side effects. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties, which is necessary for pain relief. Some foods have anti-oxidant properties that reduce free radicals that initially cause the inflammation. Some of these foods listed below contain properties even for more than pain relief.
Turmeric
Turmeric, or haldi, contains curcumin which is responsible for turmeric’s highly anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that turmeric can be used for the relief of joint pain, such as osteoarthritis. Add haldi to your dishes to speed up the absorption into the bloodstream.
Cinnamon
Dar chini inhibits the release of an inflammatory acid called arachidonic acid and reduces the formation of an inflammatory messaging molecule called thrombaxane A2. Having this ability proves that cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used for pain relief. You can add this spice to your coffee and can even be made into tea using 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 teaspoons of honey with a cup of warm water.
Salmon
Salmon has proven to be effective in relieving pain. It contain’s omega-3 fatty acids and combined with the high count of vitamin D, salmon can relieve arthritic pain. DHA, which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid, is converted to protectins which can help prevent excessive inflammation. What’s more is that omega-3 can also be converted by the body into 3 types of compounds and with the combination of calcitonin, a small bioactive protein molecule, it can be beneficial for the support of joint cartilage. Salmon is also low in mercury, making it one of the safer fishes to eat.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil contains an extensive list of polyphenols which attribute it anti-inflammatory properties. These polyphenols lower the risk of unwanted inflammation by decreasing the production of messaging molecules that could increase inflammation and inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes. Anti-inflammatory properties of extra-virgin olive oil have been likened to ibuprofen. Studies have also shown that chemicals that are triggered by pain can be blocked by the regular use of this oil. You can maximize the benefits with as little as 3 tablespoons a day.
Cherries
Cherries have been touted as one of the best kinds of fruits for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Cherries contain several different compounds that can lead to pain relief. They contain anthocyanins, which are responsible for their dark red color as well as the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Research indicates that its great for pain relief due to gout, arthritic pain and even prevent muscle damage. To get the most benefit from cherries, you should consume tart or sour cherries, which are the most red in color./p>
Cloves
Cloves can also help with pain relief, especially for toothaches. If you soak a gauze with 2 drops of clove oil and 1 drop of olive oil and place it on the aching tooth, you can experience some pain relief. Clove contains eugenol, which is the primary component for its anti-inflammatory attributes. It also contains flavonoids, such as kaempherol and rhamnetin, for additional anti-inflammatory as well as anti-oxidant effects.
Ginger
Adrak is a herb that has been used for centuries, especially in Asia. It adds a special flavor to many dishes due to its pungent and spicy taste. Its not only used for its additive flavoring, but it has great anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger contains gingerols, compounds that have researched to help relieve pain from patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Consuming ginger regularly can provide much needed pain relief. Add ginger to your dishes or even consume ginger tea (adding fresh cut ginger to warm water).
The Takeaway
Do you get headaches? How about joint pains? These nature’s foods are natural pain killers and can be consumed at any time without any of the occurrence of major side effects that some medications give. Enjoy them in teas, in foods or by themselves. Eat cherries with ice cream for some natural mood boosting properties as well!