Pain is both universal and subjective. It is a feeling that all of us can relate to, whether from heartbreak, failure, or body ache. Although the characteristic of pain is unique to each individual, the most common (and obvious) type has been adequately managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The side effects and health consequences associated with the long-term use of these drugs are alarming, which is why the search for long-term solutions that help relieve pain and inflammation, is vital without subjecting your body to other forms of health risks. Turmeric, a special herb, is a strong contender.
Scroll down to learn more about the mechanisms of turmeric and over-the-counter pain relievers in managing inflammation. We will help you uncover the secrets and make informed decisions about your health! Understanding Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s inherent ability to protect itself from harmful microorganisms in the environment and dysregulation within the body. More often than not, inflammation is beneficial for your optimal health! However, inflammation can be a double-edged sword, especially in circumstances where it becomes chronic. What once was considered a protective process can cause damage to your body tissues if left untreated. In special cases, inflammation can be misdirected to fight off your very own tissues, which can cause autoimmunity. To learn more about mechanisms behind inflammation, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
The most convenient form of managing pain and inflammation is through the use of over-the-counter pain relievers, commonly in the form of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. NSAIDs help relieve pain by blocking the release of enzymes that trigger and regulate inflammation. However, these special enzymes, also known as cyclooxygenases (COX), exert protective effects on the body! Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) is especially responsible in protecting the lining of your gastrointestinal tract, nurturing blood flow in the kidneys, and promoting healing and repair through forming clots that promote the healing of damaged tissues or blood vessels. Taking non-selective NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, blocks both inflammation and the protective function of cyclooxygenase! This means that although inflammation is prevented from causing more harm than good to your body, NSAIDs can also put you at risk of developing stomach irritation, kidney problems, anemia, or malnutrition. Read more through our blog post Pain Relief with Added Health Risks
Turmeric: The Anti-inflammatory Herb
Turmeric is loved all over the world for its regulatory and healing properties. It is also called the “wonder drug of life."2 Its versatility led to a variety of preparations which are still commonly used today, such as tea. Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help nurture essential processes within the body. Its most abundant component, curcumin, helps regulate inflammatory pathways within the body and reduce the production of enzymes that trigger inflammation.1 Additionally, the antioxidant properties of turmeric help reduce inflammation by lowering oxidative stress.
Turmeric Sources Turmeric is a staple in the kitchen and is famous for being a main ingredient of curry and golden milk. The most appropriate preparation for managing pain are turmeric supplements, which may contain different components and concentrations depending on the manufacturer. It’s also often paired with some form of black pepper (Piper nigrum) to allow for better absorption. The Naturopathic Approach
Over-the-counter pain medications are easily accessible and readily available, but this accessibility can affect your perception of pain. Although over-the-counter medications are first in line in managing physical pain or discomfort, their effects are not without health risks. At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you discover the best holistic options for your optimal health, guiding you in making informed choices about your treatment plan.
It is important to remember that the use of herbal medications should be supervised by your healthcare provider or naturopathic doctor to ensure optimal levels are maintained within the body. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation, and certain disease conditions. Hence, talking to your care provider will help you discover the best herb options for your unique case and preference. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information. REFERENCES:
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THE BLOG AT NATURAL PATH TO WELLNESSAuthorSNatural Path to Wellness values community education and welcomes contributions from writers with a background in Naturopathic Medicine, natural health and wellness, herbalism, homeopathy, Nature Cure, and more. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
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