Some herbs and fruits have been used as natural painkillers for thousands of years. Many people whose quality of life has decreased due to various pain complaints at certain periods of their lives prefer natural painkillers instead of drugs that they think have fewer side effects.
14 foods used as natural painkillers
When consuming these plants and fruits, which relieve some pain by relaxing the body, you should not overdo it.
Red grapes
The dark color of this fruit contains resveratrol, a powerful compound that blocks enzymes that contribute to tissue degeneration. Research has shown that resveratrol may protect against cartilage damage that causes back pain.
Ginger
Ginger, which has been known to relieve the digestive system for 2000 years, is also an effective pain reliever. Ginger, which prevents nausea, is also known for its stomach soothing properties. Ginger is a natural herb that fights pain, including aching joints and menstrual cramps caused by arthritis. In studies, it has been determined that ginger capsules, like anti-inflammatory drugs, work in relieving pain.
A 6-week study at the University of Miami found that almost 2 in 3 of patients with chronic knee pain reported feeling less pain after standing up using ginger extract. Research suggests that ginger can help overcome pain after exercise.
Camomile
Chamomile also contains pain relief agents. It has been used by people for centuries, especially for pains related to the nervous system. Chamomile tea, which is a good muscle relaxant, is considered to reduce pain.
Soy
It has been found that soy cuts osteoarthritis knee pain by 30% or more. Research conducted at Oklahoma State University found that consuming 40 grams of soy protein per day for three months reduced patients’ use of pain medication by half.
It is known that soy has a pain-relieving effect thanks to the anti-inflammatory property of the isoflavones in it.
Turmeric
The compound in turmeric is able to affect various processes in the body, including inflammation. It turns out that those who take curcumin supplements are able to cope with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis problems. Adding black pepper to the tea prepared by brewing ginger and putting honey in it increases its effect. The spice, which is widely used in Indian foods, has been found to be as effective as ibuprofen for rheumatoid arthritis pain. In research on rats, it has been observed that turmeric also prevents the destruction of joints from arthritis.
Cherry
The high amount of antioxidants in cherries, called anthocyanins, is key to the pain-fighting power of cherries. Research has shown that cherry juice reduces symptoms of muscle damage in men who exercise. Painkiller anthocyanins are also found in blackberries, cherries, raspberries and strawberries.
Coffee (caffeine)
Many over-the-counter cold and headache medications contain caffeine. In researches, it has been determined that when consumed together with known painkillers, it increases the effects of painkillers. In recent years, it has also been revealed that caffeine has its own unique pain-reducing power. However, caffeine intake should not be overdone.
Fish
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish may reduce pain or inflammation from certain autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, and Crohn’s disease. Regular consumption of fish is known to be effective in patients with chronic neck and back pain. A study reported that 60 percent of patients with pain experienced relief after consuming fish oil for three months, and almost all of them stopped taking pain medication altogether. Those with chronic pain are advised to eat 2-3 meals a week from fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines or trout. These fish, all of which are sources of omega-3s, suppress pain when consumed regularly. However, if blood thinners are taken, the specialist should be consulted first. Because omega-3s can increase the effect of these drugs.
Blueberry
Blueberries contain a large number of herbal elements that can fight inflammation and reduce pain. If it is not the season of the fruit, then frozen blueberries have a similar nutritional content as fresh. Other fruits that contain antioxidants and polyphenols, including strawberries and oranges, also have soothing effects.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of magnesium, a mineral known for reducing migraine attacks. It also helps prevent and treat osteoporosis. For more magnesium, almonds and cashew nuts, dark green leafy vegetables (such as spinach and cabbage), beans and lentils should be consumed regularly.
Mint
Peppermint oil removes painful cramps, gas and bloating, which are the distinguishing features of irritable bowel syndrome. Those who consume mint tea, provided that they do not overdo it, state that their pain due to stomach discomfort is relieved.
Walnut
With its high amount of omega-3 fatty acids in its content, it is good for brain and heart health as well as pain. Consuming walnuts regularly is effective against muscle and joint pain. It is especially recommended to be consumed at breakfasts and snacks.
Garlic
Garlic, which is good for teeth and headaches, is known as a natural antibiotic. Except for special health conditions, 2-3 cloves of garlic per day are generally good for muscle and bone pain.
Extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil, which contains oleocanthal enzyme, has a natural anti-inflammatory, that is, anti-inflammatory effect. It has also been noted that this enzyme reduces pain. However, in order for this enzyme to be effective, it is important that olive oil is natural and squeezed according to the old methods and made ready for consumption. All these foods should be consumed carefully if the person has chronic diseases or different problems with nutrition, and the doctor should be consulted when necessary.