What is the first word that comes into your mind when you hear about body aches? Is it a ‘painkiller?’ Well, it’s the same for everyone. ‘Take a painkiller’ is the most common response to whenever someone says that s/he is in pain.
As a matter of fact, we don’t really care about the long-term side effects of painkillers until the side effects actually pop up and start taking a toll on our health. To avoid such unpleasant situations, it’s best that you ditch all those allopathic painkillers and take the natural route instead.
The following are a few natural alternatives to allopathic painkillers that are equally effective:
Herbs and Plants
Just like allopathic painkillers, many herbs and plants are loaded with natural pain-relieving properties. And unlike allopathic painkillers, herbs and plants don’t have life-threatening side effects.
If the pain is mild to moderate, herbs like turmeric and ashwagandha can be used. They can be consumed orally or topically applied to the affected area. In case the pain is severe, you can go for valerian root or cherry gummies. They’re all quick in relieving pain and have minimal to no side effects.
Hot and Cold Compress
It’s an ancient remedy to apply hot and cold compress to the aching body part. Although it’s old, it’s still relevant as experts swear by the results. A hot compress improves blood circulation and provides the affected area with more of the oxygenated blood so that it can heal faster.
On the other hand, a cold compress relieves swelling and suppresses the pain. However, you must not overdo it. Make sure to use a hot pad for no more than 10 minutes. Similarly, you must not use the cold pack for more than five minutes.
Yoga
Ranking third is yoga. It involves a variety of body-stretching poses that work well for body aches, especially backache. It is also beneficial for people with joint disorders like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Not to mention, it helps release the stress that comes with persistent body aches. For that, you can practice mindfulness in yoga. Just be consistent in it and take out 15-20 minutes daily for it, but make sure not to exhaust yourself while practicing yoga as exhaustion can make your pain even worse.
Body Massage
While many people may not agree with it, body massage actually helps relieve body aches naturally. Massage therapies like deep tissue massage and shiatsu work wonders for persistent body aches and muscle soreness.
Your body may hurt a little for a few minutes due to the pressure applied to it during a massage session, but it will bounce back easily. For best results, it is recommended that you go for a massage therapy at least twice a week, especially in the case of chronic body aches.
A Healthy Sleep Cycle
Needless to say, lack of sleep causes fatigue and it is one thing that makes matters worse. Not to mention, sleep deprivation is one of the causes behind recurring body aches. If you haven’t been sleeping properly in the past few days, it could be the reason why you’re in pain.
According to the Sleep Foundation, one needs to sleep for 7-8 hours to function actively in one’s day-to-day life. Thus, if you sleep less or more than that, it’s time you
change your sleeping pattern and get back to a healthy routine.
If nothing else works and the pain continues, I suggest you consult a physician. Here’s wishing you a great day ahead!
