The United States is currently in the grips of the most severe opioid overdose epidemic in the country’s history. Each year, thousands of people die from opioid overdoses. The rate of drug overdose deaths is
three times higher than it was in 1990. The kinds of opioids that lead to misuse and overdose are varied. Heroin, morphine, codeine, and such synthetic opioids as methadone, fentanyl, and tramadol are all claiming lives in communities across the country.
As the battle against opioid addiction, misuse, and overdose wages on, it can be helpful to consider natural alternatives to opioids. Opioids are generally prescribed to treat injuries and illnesses that cause severe pain. They are often recommended as a method of managing pain after surgery or as part of recovery treatment.
Is it possible to replace opioids with natural alternative medicines? In some cases, the answer might be yes. For example, research suggests that natural herbs and alternative remedies may be more effective for treating long-term pain in some individuals. This is because the long-term use of opioids is known to increase patients’ tolerance to the substance, resulting in reduced effectiveness over time. Natural herbs and treatments are also a wonderful way to avoid the risk of dependency on the pain-reducing substance.
Of course, every condition, every herbal compound, and every patient is unique. Some herbs may go a long way to treat a particular individual’s pain, while others may not help as much. It is always recommended to speak with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health regimen. Learning about natural alternative medicine treatments that could take the place of opioids is a great way to ensure that you are well-informed while you navigate your health options.
So, what are some herbal remedies and alternative treatments that could potentially take the place of opioids? Let’s examine a few of the options.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is found in the human body. It plays an important role in many muscle and nerve functions. In fact, magnesium is essential even at the cellular level. While your body naturally contains magnesium, it can also be taken as a supplement and is found in many multivitamins. Taking a magnesium supplement could help manage pain. Studies have shown that it can reduce the pain of migraines, neuropathy, menstrual cramps, and fibromyalgia.
Willow Bark
Ancient Egyptians used the leaves and bark of the willow tree to treat pain thousands of years ago. Today, scientists and herbalists recognize the active ingredient in willow bark, salicin, which has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. This is why willow bark is popular as a natural alternative to aspirin. Many people use willow bark to treat back pain, muscle pain, and some types of arthritis.
Capsaicin
Chili peppers are known for their spicy sting, so “pain reliever” may not be the first thing that comes to mind when we think of them. However, capsaicin, the compound that causes chili peppers to burn whatever tissue it touches, actually has some powerful pain-relieving properties, as well. Capsaicin can effectively disrupt neurotransmitters that transmit pain signals, which can reduce the amount of pain signals sent. Capsaicin can be applied topically in medicinal creams.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is best known for its efficacy in treating mild depression, but it may also help with pain management. This tried-and-true herbal remedy has been shown to treat nerve and muscle pain when applied topically. Herbalists in the Middle Ages used St. John’s wort to reduce pain, as well as to relieve anxiety and heal wounds. This herb may be worth a try, especially if you are suffering from nerve damage.
Turmeric
Does turmeric’s usefulness as an herbal remedy know no bounds? In addition to its potential applications in boosting heart and brain health, and as an antioxidant-rich supplement, turmeric may also help relieve joint pain and certain other types of pain. This is because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing the inflammation caused by arthritis, injuries, and certain conditions can effectively reduce the pain and discomfort that are associated with them.
Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol, popularly known as CBD, is a natural chemical found in the marijuana plant. It does not induce the psychoactive effects caused by THC, another chemical produced by the same plant. CBD is, however, used by many people as an effective treatment for pain and anxiety. Few studies have been completed to support our understanding of CBD’s potential uses. However, its potential as a powerful pain reliever makes it a great option to consider as an alternative to opioids in the treatment of some conditions.
In addition to the above-mentioned herbal remedies and supplements, there are some practices and services that many people use as an alternative treatment to manage pain. If you or someone you know is looking for natural opioid alternative options, the following practices might make for good additions to your pain management routine.
Massage
Receiving a good massage has long been known to reduce stress, improve circulation, and provide other wonderful health benefits. Researchers are now examining the efficacy of massage in treating pain. A knowledgeable massage therapist can help treat pain in the muscles, arthritic pain, and pain resulting from operations and other procedures. Here at the Olive Branch Wellness Center, we offer effective massage therapy to help relieve your pain and stress.
Meditation
We all know that meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety. Did you know that many people also use it to manage pain? Some researchers even think that regular meditation could replace pharmaceutical pain medications altogether for some individuals with certain conditions. Meditation can help a person to change their mental processes surrounding pain. Studies have shown that the perception of pain can be drastically reduced by meditation, even in cases in which pain is severe or chronic.
Contact Our South Elgin Wellness Center
Do you have questions about how natural alternative treatments can replace opioids? Feel free to give Olive Branch Wellness Center in South Elgin a call. We are always happy to share our knowledge of holistic treatments to help you on your wellness journey. You can reach us at 630-370-7290.
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