Aspirin, originally derived from willow bark, is an example of the contribution plants have made to modern medical science. But natural does not always mean safe – arsenic is as natural a herb as you can find. All the same, those herbal medicines that have been well researched, and their safety proven, produce fewer adverse physical reactions than pharmaceutical drugs. The pain-relieving herbs below have been researched for safety and efficacy. Please note, that it is advisable to consult a licensed healthcare professional before taking herbal medicines, especially if you are already taking prescribed medication.
Aloe vera gel has an antiseptic effect when applied to wounds, burns, stings, bites, ulcers and abscesses. The gel can be taken directly from the cut leaves of the plant for external use, or purchased in a preparation to be taken internally to soothe most digestive disturbances.3
Arnica has a well-deserved reputation for easing the pain of bruising and contusions, as long as the skin is unbroken.4
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from pineapple stems. It safely reduces inflammation and is useful in arthritis and following trauma. Muscle aches after exercise can be prevented by taking bromelain before rather than after the event. It is important not to take bromelain with food, or the anti-inflammatory benefits may be lost as it helps protein digestion instead.5
Cayenne pepper and red chilli pepper extracts, rubbed onto the skin, can ease pains following shingles, and those linked to chronic (not acute) joint problems.6
Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. It can be taken as an infusion, applied on a compress or used to bathe the eyes.7
Clove oil is applied directly onto painful dental sites where its anesthetic properties produce rapid relief.8
Comfrey(once known as “knitbone”) has a long history of use in treating burns, bruises, sprains and fractures.9
Cramp bark has strong anti-spasmodic properties, making it ideal for all forms of spasmodic cramp, especially if you have also suffered an emotional upset. The herb can be taken as a decoction or a tincture.10
Curcumin, found in the spice turmeric, has been shown to be helpful in easing arthritic pain.11
Devil’s Claw, from the fruit of a South American plant, is used mainly for treatment of inflammation and arthritic pain.12
Ginger relieves digestive pain. Take either as an infusion or in the form of a capsule, available from health stores.13
Ginkgo biloba can be taken in capsule form for conditions such as intermittent claudication and other problems involving poor circulation.14
Lavender oil mixed with St John’s Wort oil can ease general muscle and joint aches and pains when gently massaged into the affected area. 15, 16
Marigold (calendula) ointment soothes cuts and grazes.17
Willow bark (original source of aspirin) as a tincture is used by medical herbalists to ease arthritic pain.18
DECOCTIONS, TINCTURES AND INFUSIONS
Herbs are commonly taken in the form of decoctions, tinctures and infusions. These preparations are all simple to create. To make a decoction of berries, roots or bark, place the herbs in a saucepan, cover with cold water and bring to the boil. Simmer until the liquid reduces by about a third, before straining into a container for storage in a cool place. A tincture is made by soaking the herb in a spirit (typically vodka) for two weeks to extract the active ingredients. The liquid is then sieved through a muslin-lined wine press, and stored in dark-glass bottles. An infusion is made in much the same way as tea. Cover the herbs with boiling water and let them infuse for about 10 minutes. Strain into a cup and drink. You may need to add a spoon of honey to make the infusion palatable.