What are the top natural painkillers? Discover 12 effective herbs and other remedies that can help relieve pain without the use of over-the-counter medications.

The Power of Nature’s Remedies: 12 Natural Painkillers

When it comes to managing pain, many people are turning to natural alternatives to over-the-counter medications. From essential oils to herbal remedies, the world of natural pain relief is vast and intriguing. In this comprehensive article, we explore 12 potent natural painkillers that can provide relief without the potential side effects of synthetic drugs.

Lavender Essential Oil: A Soothing Solution

Lavender essential oil has long been used for its calming and pain-relieving properties. A 2012 study found that inhaling lavender oil may help alleviate the pain associated with migraines, while other research suggests it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in animals. When using lavender oil, it’s important to dilute it in a carrier oil before applying it topically, and to always consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your regimen.

Rosemary: More Than Just a Culinary Herb

Rosemary, the fragrant herb commonly used in cooking, may also have therapeutic benefits for pain relief. Some researchers believe that rosemary’s interaction with the brain’s opioid receptors, which are involved in pain perception, may be responsible for its analgesic effects. A 2013 clinical trial found that rosemary oil reduced pain in individuals experiencing opium withdrawal.

Peppermint Oil: A Refreshing Approach to Pain Management

Peppermint oil, derived from the Mentha piperita L. plant, has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving properties. Topical application of diluted peppermint oil may help alleviate muscle and joint pain, as well as tension headaches. However, it’s essential to conduct a spot test before using peppermint oil, as it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Eucalyptus Oil: A Powerful Natural Analgesic

Eucalyptus oil, extracted from the Eucalyptus plant, has been shown to have pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and swelling-reducing properties. A 2013 study found that inhaling eucalyptus oil for 30 minutes per day for 3 days helped reduce pain in individuals recovering from knee replacement surgery. While eucalyptus oil can be effective, it’s important to use it with caution, as it can be toxic if ingested and may trigger asthma symptoms.

Cloves: A Traditional Remedy for Toothache and Beyond

Cloves, from the Eugenia caryophyllata plant, have long been used as a traditional remedy for relieving pain, particularly toothache. The active compound in cloves, eugenol, is believed to have anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate various types of pain. Clove oil can be applied topically to the affected area, but it’s important to dilute it in a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

Nature’s Analgesic Arsenal: Exploring the Remaining 7 Natural Painkillers

In addition to the essential oils and herbs mentioned above, the natural pain relief arsenal includes a variety of other remedies, such as ginger, turmeric, willow bark, Devil’s claw, arnica, capsaicin, and frankincense. Each of these natural substances has its own unique properties and potential benefits for pain management, making them valuable options to consider alongside or in place of traditional pain medications.

It’s important to note that while these natural remedies show promise, the research on their efficacy is still limited. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplements or alternative therapies into your pain management routine. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure the safety and quality of any natural products you choose to use.

By exploring the wide array of natural painkillers available, individuals can empower themselves to take a more holistic approach to managing their pain and discomfort. With a little research and the guidance of healthcare professionals, the natural path to pain relief can be a viable and rewarding option.

Top 12 natural painkillers: Herbs and other remedies

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There are various natural ways to relieve pain. They include essential oils, herbal remedies, and other complementary and alternative therapies.

People have used essential oils, herbs, and alternative therapies as natural pain relievers for hundreds of years.

Researchers have not fully explored these options, but some evidence suggests that certain remedies can help, and that many people find them useful.

In this article, we discuss 12 natural pain relievers and the science behind them. Read on to learn how to manage pain naturally without relying on over-the-counter pain medication.

Share on PinterestInhaling lavender essential oil may help relieve pain and anxiety.

Lavender essential oil may help relieve pain naturally. People use lavender oil for pain relief, to help sleep, and to ease anxiety.

A small-scale 2012 study found that inhaling lavender oil may relieve pain associated with migraine headaches compared with a placebo.

Some research also suggests that lavender oil has pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects in animals.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not currently regulate essential oil ingredients and dosages, so use them with caution. Always talk to a doctor before using any new essential oils.

Do not ingest essential oils, as they can be toxic. If applying an oil topically, always dilute it in a carrier oil. Learn more about carrier oils here.

People can choose from a range of lavender essential oils online.

Rosemary is another essential oil that may relieve pain.

Some researchers state that the rosemary plant, Rosmarinus officinalis L., may help treat headache, muscle and bone pain, and seizures. Rosemary may also reduce inflammation, relax smooth muscles, and boost memory.

Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil such as olive oil. Use three to five drops of essential oil for each ounce of carrier oil.

The researchers suggest that the herb acts on receptors in the brain called opioid receptors, which are involved with the sensation of pain. A 2013 clinical trial found that rosemary oil reduced pain in people experiencing opium withdrawal.

People can choose from a range of rosemary essential oils online.

Peppermint oil comes from the Mentha piperita L. plant.

Some research suggests that the peppermint plant has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving effects. The active compounds in peppermint oil include carvacrol, menthol, and limonene.

People often use diluted peppermint essential oil as a topical treatment, meaning that they rub diluted oil into the area that feels achy or painful.

One 2015 review notes that people have traditionally used peppermint to relieve painful spasms and problems associated with arthritis.

The researchers also report that applying peppermint oil to the temples and forehead may relieve tension headache pain.

Avoid putting peppermint oil on broken skin. It can cause allergic reactions, so do a spot test before using peppermint oil on a painful area. Do not use peppermint oil around children.

People can choose from a range of peppermint oils online.

The final essential oil on this list of natural ways to relieve pain is eucalyptus oil. This herbal remedy from the Eucalyptus plant may help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in the body.

One 2013 study found that inhaling eucalyptus oil relieved pain compared with almond oil. Participants inhaled eucalyptus oil for 30 minutes per day for 3 days. They were all recovering from knee replacement surgery.

Do not use eucalyptus oil around children or pets. Eucalyptus can trigger asthma. It is important to dilute it in a carrier oil before applying topically.

Also, so not diffuse eucalyptus in public. Eucalyptus essential oil is toxic if a person swallows it. Do a spot check to be sure that the skin is not going to react to eucalyptus applied topically.

People can choose from a range of eucalyptus essential oils online.

People have traditionally used cloves, from the Eugenia caryophyllata plant, as a home remedy to relieve pain from toothache.

A 2006 study found clove gel to be as effective as benzocaine gel, which is a topical gel that dentists often use to reduce needle pain.

The researchers applied clove, benzocaine gel, or a placebo to the inside of the participants’ mouths. They reported lower levels of pain with both clove and benzocaine gels, but not with placebos.

More research is needed to see how effectively cloves could relieve other sorts of pain.

Researchers also believe that clove can have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral activity.

People can choose from a range of clove oils online.

People also use capsaicin, present in chili peppers, for natural pain relief. This substance can cause a mild burning or tingling sensation when a person applies it topically.

A 2011 study notes the important role that capsaicin topical creams and patches play in pain management. Many pain-relieving products contain capsaicin.

Researchers are not yet sure why it relieves pain, but some believe that it reduces the skin’s sensitivity to pain by working on the nociceptor fibers. These are nerves that carry pain signals.

People can find a range of capsaicin creams online.

Share on PinterestEating ginger may accelerate recovery and reduce inflammation after exercise.

Ginger, or Zingiber officinale, is a root that shows promise as a natural pain reliever.

A 2015 systematic review found that ingesting 2 grams of ginger per day modestly reduced muscle pain from resistance exercise and running when people took it for at least 5 days.

The researchers also suggest that ginger may accelerate recovery and reduce inflammation related to exercise.

Try including ginger in the diet by adding raw ginger to smoothies or teas. People can also use ginger supplements, which are available in health stores and online. However, the natural, fresh ingredient may be more healthful.

Always talk to a doctor before taking any new supplement. Dietary supplements can have side effects and may interact with existing medication.

Feverfew, also called featherfew or bachelor’s buttons, is a medicinal plant. Traditional uses include treating fever, migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, toothaches, and stomach aches, as well as increasing breast milk.

Feverfew contains compounds that may reduce inflammation and muscle spasms. Some researchers believe that the key active compounds include sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids.

The American Migraine Foundation state that there are mixed results about how effective feverfew is, but that it is probably helpful for preventing migraine headaches.

A 2011 research review concludes that feverfew flowers and leaves have analgesic, or pain-relieving, properties.

Feverfew can cause side effects such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and increased risk of bleeding. So, it is important to talk to a doctor before trying feverfew.

Curcuma, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, has pain-relieving qualities.

A small-scale 2014 study found that curcuma extract is as effective as ibuprofen for pain management in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis when a person takes it for 4 weeks.

Turmeric is also a common herbal remedy for reducing inflammation. To include turmeric in its natural form in the diet, try adding it to curries, smoothies, or juices.

People can also buy turmeric supplements online.

Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that advocates believe can help reduce pain. Recent research supports these beliefs.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) state that acupuncture can help with certain types of pain, including:

• low back pain
• neck pain
• osteoarthritis or knee pain

It may also reduce how frequently people get tension headaches and could help prevent migraine headaches.

A 2018 meta-analysis found that acupuncture is an effective way to manage chronic pain. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could help with musculoskeletal pain, headache, and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

More research into the effects of acupuncture for other pain conditions is now needed, but increasing evidence is suggesting that acupuncture is effective for many types of pain.

In fact, acupuncture may help in more than 100 different conditions.

Share on PinterestPracticing yoga may help with back and neck pain.

Yoga is a physical meditation practice that may offer a way to manage pain naturally.

Managing back pain often includes stretching and physical therapy. Yoga provides this.

It incorporates breathing exercises, self-care, and relaxation methods, so practicing yoga may also relieve pain related to stress or anxiety.

A 2013 study found that yoga may improve low back pain.

The NCCIH state that yoga may help relieve low back pain and neck pain, but that there is not enough evidence that it can help for other conditions, such as headache, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

People experiencing chronic pain are increasingly turning to mindfulness meditation as a natural treatment. More research is needed, but initial studies are promising.

A 2017 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 38 studies and eventually concluded that mindfulness meditation can improve pain symptoms, depression, and quality of life. However, the authors say that larger studies are needed to see exactly how effective it is.

While many people use pain relief medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen with no problems, people who experience side effects can try using natural pain relievers. These include herbal remedies and traditional practices such as yoga and acupuncture.

One 2016 review links long-term acetaminophen use to an increased risk of heart attacks, bleeding in the digestive system, and impaired kidney function.

Meanwhile, some research suggests that long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen increases the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and stroke.

Some traditional remedies, such as yoga, mindfulness, and acupuncture, can also benefit a person’s mental health.

Herbal remedies could provide other health benefits alongside pain-relieving effects, such as having antioxidant effects to help keep the body healthy.

Natural pain relievers may not be as effective for all types of pain. They may not offer relief when pain is more severe. When this is the case, a person can add them to other pain management approaches to enhance the effect.

Anyone with severe pain, including pain related to an existing health condition, should speak to their doctor. They can advise how best to manage this.

Also, if a person starts experiencing pain and does not know the cause, they should see their doctor. They will diagnose and treat the condition that is causing the pain.

When a person takes traditional pain relief medication as prescribed, with guidance from a doctor, it is a safe and effective way to manage pain.

Natural pain relievers, however, offer an alternative for people who want to avoid the long-term side effects of pain relief medication.

People can use essential oils by adding a few drops to a tissue or a steam bath and inhaling the vapor. People can also add the herbs and spices listed above to food. However, if a person is unable to do that, they can instead take them as supplements.

Mindfulness is easy to try at home. Many people may also be able to try yoga at home, for which there are many introductory videos available online.

To try acupuncture, it is best to visit a professional, certified practitioner.

Not every natural pain reliever will work for everyone. Some people may find that a natural option that works well for them in the long-term. Others may not be able to manage pain naturally and may prefer traditional medication.

Our Favorite Herbs For Pain Relief And Inflammation

Our Favorite Herbs For Pain Relief And Inflammation

Modern medicine isn’t always the right choice for everyone, especially when there are herbal remedies that can do the trick. 

However, finding natural remedies for pain relief can be difficult when you don’t know what to look for. Here’s a list of our favorite herbs for pain relief and inflammation. 

1. CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, is an active ingredient in cannabis. While it doesn’t cause a “high” on its own, it’s often used to manage pain and inflammation.  

The most commonly known aspects of this herb involve getting the mind to relax by reducing anxiety and stress. It can also help the body by reducing inflammation and stiffness. It’s a popular natural remedy to those who suffer from arthritis or chronic pain. 

Studies have also shown that CBD exhibits no addictive effects or dependence potential. This makes them a healthy alternative to prescription drugs which can be harmful to the body and addictive. Natural herbs for pain relief and inflammation are easier to take and can have just as much of an impact. 

A natural way to get your daily dose of CBD and reap its benefits is through MDreliefwhich involves CBD and other pain relieving herbs like white willow bark, frankincense, and vitamin E.

2. White Willow Bark

For thousands of years, white willow bark has been used to fight pain and inflammation. 

Salicin, the main active ingredient in white willow bark, relieves the symptoms people experience from chronic back pain and migraines. It works like aspirin, but with fewer side effects when consumed. It also has the potential to help with weight loss, which will reduce the amount of pressure on joints and relieve some of that pain as well.

White willow bark comes in all forms for use, including a tea that can be consumed. The anti-inflammatory properties of the bark are highly beneficial for those seeking relief, like many herbs for pain relief and inflammation. 

However, with any supplement taken, there are potential risks. The side effects of white willow bark may include an upset stomach or nausea. To prevent side effects, take the suggested dosage. 

3. Frankincense

Frankincense, also known as Boswellia, has been used to alleviate pain and swelling for centuries. In addition to relieving arthritis symptoms, it also serves as a treatment for inflammation. A 2020 study revealed that Frankincense helped relieve stiffness and pain in people diagnosed with osteoarthritis. The acids can also prevent further damage to the cartilage.

Frankincense can be mixed with other herbs for pain to create a topical poultice. Traditionally, such poultices have been used to reduce swelling and inflammation as natural medicine. You can apply the solution directly to the affected area, although some people report that applying it to the soles of your feet allows the herbs to work faster since the pores are larger.

However, with any herbs for pain relief and inflammation, there are potential side effects. These include skin irritation and stomach problems for some people. Individuals with gastritis or gastroesophageal reflux disease should avoid taking the herb for pain as it may worsen the symptoms. Bloating, diarrhea, and heartburn are other side effects users may experience when taking frankincense.

The oil can be applied topically, as well as inhaled through aromatherapy. One method may be better for you than the other. Consult your doctor before consuming frankincense to discuss any potential reactions you may have, along with other health concerns about herbs for pain relief and inflammation.

4. Vitamin E

Your immune system plays a large role in your overall health. Knowing this, boosting your vitamin E intake can alleviate the pressure from inflammation and chronic pain. Filled with antioxidants, vitamin E promotes immune system health and has the potential to reduce inflammation when consumed like other herbs for pain. It can be taken orally in capsules or drops.

Vitamin E is safe to apply to the skin, but like most herbs for pain, there are some potential side effects to consider. Side effects of vitamin E in higher doses include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. You may also experience fatigue and weakness if vitamin E levels get too high. Like any other herbs for pain, moderation is key. 

If you suffer from chronic pain and inflammation, low levels of vitamin E may aggravate it. You can naturally add more vitamin E-rich foods to your diet, or you can speak with a doctor about incorporating supplements to help increase the levels of vitamin E in your body. They will be able to discuss potential risks and how to minimize them. A health professional will be able to give you guidance on the dosage and how to manage any symptoms that arise after.

5. Rosemary 

Though research on the benefits of rosemary is just beginning, there are promising signs that it helps moderate pain and inflammation. When paired with pain-relieving techniques like acupressure or acupuncture, rosemary improves the effectiveness of the process and relieves more pain and tension overall. Additionally, there’s some evidence that rosemary oil may be more effective than some over-the-counter medications.

Additionally, rosemary relieves stress. Too much stress creates tension in the body, leading to chronic pain and sometimes inflammation. This herbal remedy reduces the amount of stress hormones in the body, making it easier to find peace of mind and relieve tension. While more research needs to be conducted to confirm, the results so far are promising for those seeking herbal remedies to alleviate chronic pain and inflammation.

6. Eucalyptus Oil

According to research, eucalyptus oil has proven to reduce pain and swelling in joints, as well as inflammation. In a study conducted on patients who received atotal knee replacement surgery, the inhalation of eucalyptus oil helped alleviate pain. It’s recommended as a treatment for arthritis and can be applied topically, though it can be ingested as well.

Consult your primary doctor before attempting to use eucalyptus oil. While it is generally safe for use, it’s wise to speak with your doctor about any possible concerns.

7. Fish Oil

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oils have strong anti-inflammatory properties. As such, they are a popular alternative to modern medicine for pain relief. Taking fish oils will not immediately improve your conditions, but over time the improvements will build up as your body adjusts.

8. Lavender Extract

Diluted lavender oil has been used to help relieve pain from sore muscles and tension. Chronic pain and inflammation can be alleviated by applying lavender extract to the skin, although aromatherapy has proven to be effective as well. There are more health benefits to using lavender extract, like reduced stress levels, which can act as a preventative measure for chronic pain and tension.

Lavender extract is great when paired with a new workout regimen or an active lifestyle where chronic pain slows you down. If you have any concerns, you can speak with your doctor before trying any natural medicine.

9. Turmeric

Turmeric is well-known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat swelling and reduce inflammation. This warm, bitter spice contains the active ingredient curcumin, which has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in it. While not a cure for joint pain, it can help relieve some of the tension when used as a supplement.

Turmeric is a great alternative for those who are unable to take modern medicine due to the side effects or other health concerns. The active ingredients are nontoxic and safe to consume in both meals and capsule form. 

10. Ashwagandha

Alongside other plant-based medicinesand herbs for pain, ashwagandha can help relieve pain and inflammation when taken regularly. When crushed into a powder and extracted, ashwagandha reduces the level of stress hormones in the body, helping the mind to relax. In this process, the body is able to relax as well, relieving chronic pain and tension in the muscles.

Additionally, the properties in ashwagandha help to reduce swelling from inflammation. It’s easily accessible online and instores in capsule form.

11. Quercetin

This plant pigment is found in many fruits and vegetables you consume. It’s most commonly found in red and green produce like apples, cherries, tomatoes, kale, onions, and green tea. This flavonoid is a common antioxidant in the average human diet that also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Quercetin is one of many herbs for pain that binds with free radicals in your body, working to alleviate swelling and blood pressure. If you find yourself suffering from chronic pain and inflammation, a simple, natural remedy may be to add more fruits and veggies to your diet. It’s a quick addition that may bring relief without further need for assistance. Plus, the added fruits and vegetables can be incorporated into new dishes for you to enjoy!

12. Ginger

Studies have shown that ginger works to alleviate soreness and pain from exercise-related injuries. Whether consumed heated or raw, the natural herb has effects in reducing both pain and inflammation in participants. It has been compared to ibuprofen due to its relieving properties, and has reduced inflammation in patients recovering from knee surgery.

Consult your doctor before adding more ginger to your diet to see if that’s the right option for you. You can start small by using it in your cooking more often before taking higher doses in supplements.

13. Hops Extract

When you think of hops, your mind first goes to beer. The dried hops flower has more uses than brewing a cold drink, however. Certain poultices containing the hops flower can help control gastric nerves and reduce inflammation in the body. Along with other herbs for pain relief and inflammation, consumption of hops flower extract can help alleviate any lingering symptoms.

Meet with your primary care physician before consuming large amounts of the extract as some individuals may experience allergic reactions to higher dosages.

14. Cloves

While cloves are often used to spice up a meal by seasoning dishes, they act as a natural pain reliever as well! There are multiple compounds in cloves that act as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing the body’s natural reaction to swell to certain stimuli. This can reduce the risk of arthritis, or help manage the symptoms of arthritis for those experiencing it.

As one of many herbs for pain, cloves can be used in cooking to easily increase your intake. They can be used whole or ground up to season a meal. You’re sure to enjoy the new flavor as well as the health benefits.

15. Valerian Extract

Another herb with anti-inflammatory properties is valerian. Those who suffer from chronic pain and inflammation have the potential to see their symptoms reduced after a steaming cup of valerian tea. This natural pain reliever has proven to be useful in studies conducted on its sedative effects.

Valerian extract has the potential to promote muscle relaxation, therefore aiding in pain relief and the muscles release unnecessary tension. If you have any concerns, you can consult your doctor before attempting to add valerian extract to your regimen.

16. Capsaicin

Known as a spicy addition to the dinner table, the chili pepper, also known as capsaicin, has medicinal properties as well. Capsaicin is the component of the pepper that gives it that spicy kick. This component is added to creams and gels to use as a pain reliever. Topical application of capsaicin has proven to reduce inflammation and chronic pain–especially in those who have a higher sensitivity to pain.

There may be some side effects like burning or itching when using capsaicin as a natural remedy for pain. While these side effects are generally short term, they can be uncomfortable and potentially long-lasting if left untreated. If you have any concerns, you can speak with your doctor before trying this natural remedy.

17. Mint

Peppermint is known for many uses, like clearing up sinuses and increasing focus, but it has other medicinal properties to be utilized. Applying peppermint oil to the surface of your skin can reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. 

Additionally, rubbing the oil into your temples may alleviate tension headaches as they begin. Conduct a spot test before using peppermint oil to ensure you don’t trigger an allergic reaction, and avoid using the oil on any broken skin as it will cause irritation.

18. Devil’s Claw Root

Generally used for both osteoarthritis and back pain, Devil’s claw is a root containing anti-inflammatory properties. It’s one of many herbs used for pain relief and inflammation.

While it has not been studied in humans excessively, results are promising. It’s important to speak with your doctor before taking the supplement to discuss any concerns you may have.

19. Feverfew

Along with other herbs for pain, feverfew is generally used to relieve migraines and inflammation. It’s safe to take for up to four months at a time, but there are side effects to look out for. Taking feverfew may cause an upset stomach, bloating, and vomiting.

If you have any concerns, consult your primary doctor. The consumption of dried leaves is likely to be safe, while fresh leaves are potentially unsafe.

20. Vitamin D

Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties, and low levels in the body may be the cause of your discomfort. Some chronic pain may see relief through vitamin D supplements. You can add vitamin D to your diet by consuming more orange juice, dairy, fish, and other rich foods.

Whether you add more vitamin D to your diet or take an oral supplement, your doctor can better advise you on how to increase your vitamin D intake.

Final Thoughts

There are many herbs for pain relief and inflammation that serve as alternatives to modern medicine. Many of these can be mixed with everyday meals for easy consumption, and they may even spice up your dinner table. If you have any concerns, reach out to a medical professional to discuss any potential allergies or side effects.

Herbal remedies and cancer treatment

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This information will help you learn about herbal remedies and how they affect your treatment.

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About herbal remedies

Herbal remedies are any herbal or herbal (plant-based) supplement or dietary supplement that you take for health benefits. They can be in the form of tablets, capsules, powders, teas, liquid extracts, fresh or dried herbs.

Some herbal remedies can help prevent or reverse the side effects of cancer treatment. Which herbal remedies are really good for you depends on your symptoms and what kind of treatment you’re getting.

Although herbal remedies may seem harmless, not all of them can be taken. Herbal remedies do not go through the same tests as prescription drugs to make sure they are effective and safe.

Some herbal remedies may be harmful to health. Such funds can:

• interfere with the action of other drugs;
• raise or lower your blood pressure;
• promote blood thinning and increase the risk of bleeding;
• interfere with radiotherapy to have the desired effect;
• change your body’s response to sedation (a calming drug) or general anesthesia (a drug that makes you fall asleep).

Talk to your health care provider about any herbal remedies or other supplements you are taking. We are ready to talk openly and confidentially with you about any such drugs.

For more information about herbs and supplements, visit www.aboutherbs.com or call MSK Integrative Medicine Services at 646-608-8550.

Stop taking herbal remedies before your appointment.

Stop taking herbal remedies and other dietary supplements 7 days (1 week) before:

• operations;
• starting a course of chemotherapy;
• starting a course of radiotherapy;
• performing certain procedures. Your health care provider will tell you if you need to stop taking your herbal remedies before your procedure.

Herbal remedies and other dietary supplements may cause bleeding and affect your treatment. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for resuming herbal remedies.

You can continue to use herbs in food and drink, such as spices for cooking or making tea. Herbal remedies are stronger than herbs used in food preparation.

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Common herbal remedies and their effects

Here is a list of some common herbs and their side effects in treating cancer.

Echinacea

• Can sometimes cause severe allergic reactions such as rashes or breathing problems.
• May prevent drugs that weaken your immune system from working as intended.

Garlic

• May lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• May increase the risk of bleeding.

Ginkgo (also known as ginkgo biloba)

• May increase the risk of bleeding.

Ginseng

• May prevent sedation or general anesthesia from having its intended effect.
• May increase blood pressure.
• May increase the risk of bleeding.
• May lower blood glucose (sugar) levels.

Turmeric

• May prevent chemotherapy from having its intended effect.

St. John’s wort

• May interfere with the effective action of certain drugs.
• May increase skin sensitivity to radiation or laser treatment.

Valeriana

• May enhance the effect of sedation or general anesthesia.

Herbal mixtures

• Herbal mixtures contain different plants in different proportions.
• You must stop taking these drugs 7 days (1 week) before starting treatment. Do not resume herbal mixtures until your health care provider confirms that it is safe to do so.

This information does not contain information about all herbal remedies, as well as about all possible side effects from taking them. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

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Contact information

• To schedule a consultation with an Integrative Medicine healthcare provider, call 646-608-8550.
• Call 646-449-1010 to book therapy, classes, and seminars in the Integrative Medicine Service.

For more information, visit www.mskcc.org/IntegrativeMedicine or read the resource Integrative Medicine and Cancer Care
.

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Date last updated

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Herbal treatment for colds | Doctor MOM®

Contents:
Cough treatment
Runny nose treatment
Elimination of general weakness and fatigue
Relief of pain and sore throat
Elimination of headache and muscle pain
Lowering body temperature

Pro The cold is usually milder than the flu and goes away faster. Sometimes it almost does not require medical treatment. Indeed, in some cases there is no need to use synthetic drugs, because for each symptom of a cold there can be medicinal herbs that help alleviate the patient’s condition and contribute to a speedy recovery. For colds, medicinal herbs are used both inside (as part of syrups, mixtures, infusions, lozenges), and and externally (in ointments, compresses, when washing, rinsing). There are countless recipes, but in order for herbal cold therapy to be effective, it is important not to act at random, but to choose exactly the combination of medicinal plants that exactly matches the symptoms.

Cough treatment

Before treating this cold symptom, it is necessary to determine whether it is dry (non-productive, no sputum) or wet (productive, relieving, with phlegm). The direction of therapy will directly depend on this. In the first case, the doctor may prescribe drugs to suppress the cough reflex, and in the second, completely different tasks become relevant. The advantage of medicinal plants is that they help to solve a number of problems. If the cough is dry, the main thing is to quickly turn it into a wet one so that sputum is discharged, along with which microbes and their waste products are excreted from the body.

Various non-pharmacological measures can be used for this. So, it is recommended:

As soon as a dry cough begins to turn into a wet one, that is, sputum appears, it is necessary to help to remove it. To determine which herb to drink for a cold accompanied by a cough with mucus, one should start from the following tasks:

• Sputum thinning. The discharge produced by a wet cough usually has a viscous, thick consistency at first and is difficult to pass. In this case, the patient is shown mucolytics that reduce its viscosity. These include licorice root, marshmallow root, adatoda vasik.

• Stimulation of sputum excretion. Herbs with an expectorant effect solve this problem: licorice root, marshmallow root, belerica terminalia, nightshade, plantain, coltsfoot, adatoda vasika, elecampane, basil.

• Relieve inflammation. The cough reflex most often occurs when an organ of the respiratory system becomes inflamed, and sometimes several at once. The weakening of the inflammatory process is facilitated by such plants as ginger, aloe, licorice root, turmeric, nightshade, elecampane, officinalis. With a cold, tea with ginger or other listed plants also helps in the recovery period after suffering diseases of the upper respiratory tract and helps prevent relapse.

It is this complex effect – mucolytic, bronchodilator, expectorant and anti-inflammatory – that syrup Dr. MOM ^® has on the basis of 10 medicinal herbs. It is suitable for both adults and children over 3 years old. To relieve inflammation and facilitate the removal of sputum, vegetable cough lozenges Dr. MOM ^® , containing extracts of licorice, ginger and officinalis, can also be used. Pastilles are intended for adults over 18 years of age.

Treatment of a runny nose

For a runny nose, the following may be helpful:

• saline or herbal nasal rinses;
• essential oils (eg for massage).

Doctor MOM ^® Phyto ointment can also be used for a runny nose, which should be applied to the wings of the nose, avoiding contact with mucous membranes. This product, intended for adults and children from 3 years old, contains four essential oils – camphor, turpentine, eucalyptus and nutmeg, as well as levomenthol and thymol. Thanks to this composition, the ointment has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, restores nasal breathing, and produces an inhalation effect.

Elimination of general weakness and fatigue

Feeling unwell with a cold or flu is due to intoxication – poisoning of the body with the waste products of viruses and bacteria. Even if intoxication is expressed rather weakly, measures must be taken to remove harmful substances. The best remedy for this is a plentiful warm drink: tea with lemon, cranberry and lingonberry fruit drinks, herbal decoctions (for example, rosehip, raspberry and lime blossom). Drinking as much liquid as possible is a measure that allows not only to improve the general condition of the patient, but also to accelerate the liquefaction of sputum.

Relieve pain and sore throat

Herbs also treat a sore throat for colds. For this, rinsing with decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants, as well as inhalations are used. In addition, to eliminate cough and perspiration in adults, you can use vegetable cough lozenges Dr. MOM ^® .

Elimination of headache and muscle pain

These are also typical signs of intoxication. Essential oils in the ointment Dr. MOM 9 contribute to the removal of pain syndrome0246 ® Phyto. With a headache, the remedy is applied to the temples, with muscle aches – to a disturbing place.

Decreased body temperature

Fever is another symptom of intoxication. A cold is characterized by a moderate increase in body temperature in the range of 38–38.5 ° C. In this case, antipyretic drugs are usually not recommended. Instead, copious drinking is prescribed, including herbal teas, which have a mild antipyretic effect. For the treatment of colds with herbs in this case, it is recommended to drink decoctions or teas containing lime blossom, officinalis, coltsfoot, plantain.