Natural Alternatives To Ibuprofen

It is almost normal for us to grab that bottle of ibuprofen whenever we suffer from pain than relying in herbal medicines or natural alternatives to ibuprofen. We often think that taking one or 2 tablets won’t hurt. But if you look at the side effects, you might think twice before taking another ibuprofen.

How Does Ibuprofen Work?

Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug that suppresses pain like headache, menstrual cramps, dental pain and arthritis. Its action is to block the body’s production of particular substances as a response to inflammation. As a result swelling, pain or fever is decreased.

Side Effects

Although ibuprofen is an effective drug it has many side effects like dizziness, stomach upset, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and more. It can even increase your chances of getting heart attack and stroke.

Natural alternatives to Ibuprofen

Next time you experience headache, consider these natural alternatives to ibuprofen.

Heat and Ice

If you recently have an injury, apply an icepack on the injured area. The ice will numb the pain and prevent swelling. When swelling is prevented, healing is hastened. On the other hand, applying warm compress is effective in treating stiffness in joints and muscles. The heat increases circulation to the area and when there is increased circulation there is also increased oxygen and nutrients to the region thus encouraging healing.

Physical Therapy

When you are experiencing pain due to muscle spasms and joint injuries, you can be treated with physical therapy. When muscles are stimulated, circulation is increased in the area. Range of motion exercises can also help ease pain because this encourages normal range of motion. Physical therapy relieves inflammation, joint weakness and stiffness.

Garlic

This herb can relieve cramps and improve circulation. The increase circulation can heal inflammation faster. Garlic also has tumor shrinking properties that can help lessen swelling caused by cancer. Chew 1 clove of garlic everyday to enjoy its healing benefits.

Chamomile

This herb has a soothing effect on the nerves and it also has the ability to help with tenderness. Chamomile is used to treat inflammation in arthritis, pain in neuralgia, rheumatic pains and muscle cramps. You can drink chamomile tea or buy natural lotion containing chamomile.

Foods that Fight Inflammation

Aside from herbs, there are also foods you can consume that can help ease inflammation. Food rich omega-3 like salmon and tuna controls inflammation. Fruits and vegetables have phytochemicals and antioxidants that relieve soreness of body parts.