Showing posts with label basil. Show all posts
Showing posts with label basil. Show all posts

7.8.16

Herbal pain killers



Are you in pain? You don’t have to reach for over-the -counter pain killers, or even the heavy pharmaceutical hitters prescribed by your doctor; there are literally hundreds of natural pain killers waiting for you in the abundance of nature.You can count on plants and herbs to alleviate everything from arthritis pain, to headaches, to burns
I have personally tested some of these natural medicines , and I encourage my  readers to not underestimate their power, or experiment with massive doses. They are strong medicines, and they should be wisely treated with that degree of respect. Consider the sap from opium poppy flowers as an example, for it was first used to make opiates, and then it was further chemically refined to make codeine, morphine, and Heroin too. This simple plant is still the foundation of all pharmaceutical painkillers in one way or another.
Pain always indicates that something is wrong, so efforts should be made to uncover the cause and correct it. Therefore, painkillers should only be used to temporarily mitigate a patient's suffering, while simultaneous efforts are made to eliminate the health issues that are causing pain.




Not all pain relief has to come from a medical treatment. There are some natural pain relief options that can go a long way in helping you cope with and manage chronic pain
Many herbs and spices can treat inflammation and other related conditions. These plant-based options fall under a category of medical treatment known as complementary and alternative medicine, which also includes acupuncture, yoga, reiki and other practices. When it comes to pain relief, you may be surprised at what might help you feel better.
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Back and Joint Discomfort

Turmeric

Turmeric is a root that’s part of the ginger family. It curbs inflammation,You can cook with this dark yellow spice or make tea with it. Or take it in capsule form up to 1-2 grams per day.
Turmeric is a spice that gives curry, an Indian dish, its yellow color and unique flavor. It contains the compound curcumin, an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radical molecules that can damage cells and tissue.
Turmeric is used for the treatment of many conditions, including indigestion, ulcers, stomach upset, psoriasis, and even cancer. Some people with osteoarthritis turn to turmeric as a natural pain reliever because it helps relieve inflammation.

Capsicum

Capsicum/capsaicin comes from chili peppers. A skin cream with 0.25%-0.75% capsaicin may soothe your back pain. Apply it directly to the area that hurts

Comfrey. If you have lower or upper back pain, you could try a skin cream made with comfrey extract. Use it three times a day. Comfrey can harm your liver if you take it by mouth, so don’t drink comfrey tea.


Heat and Ice

Among the most common home remedies is applying heat and ice directly to sites of pain. While these may not seem like “surprising” pain relievers, not everyone is clear on exactly when to use ice or heat.
A strained muscle, tendon, or ligament may feel better after applying an ice pack to reduce swelling and inflammation, shortly after it is injured. Interestingly, once the inflammation has disappeared, heat may help reduce the stiffness that comes with strains and sprains.
A cold pack used briefly on the head may also help take away the pain of a headache.
But, if the painful problem is arthritis, moist heat applied to the affected joint will help more than ice. Moist heat packs that can be warmed in the microwave and used many times, making them easy and effective to use. If you get injured, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how to use heat or ice to help ease the pain.

Kratom:

Kratom is used for severe pain, such as the pain that results from car accidents and botched surgeries. It is a very strong and capable painkiller, often replacing oxycodone (Oxycontin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin). It typically causes a feeling of euphoria, relaxation, and a bizarre tingling sensation in the frontal lobes. The tingling is usually brief. Kratom is also used for reducing addictions to the pharmaceutical derivatives of opium. Such addicts can use kratom instead of the addictive drugs to curb their withdrawals. After an extended period of this therapy, addicts can stop taking kratom without incident.


Basil


Some varieties of basil (namely Ocimum americanum and Ocimum tenuiflorum) are actually as strong as anti-inflammatory drugs!
Basil extract has been shown to reduce swelling in arthritic patients by up to 73%, in just 24 hours. Other varieties of basil also kill pain, but just on a lower level

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Basil is also anti-bacterial, which explains why it is often used in dental and oral hygiene products.

Black Pepper:

Black pepper contains piperine, a chemical which helps to counteract pain in the body.
In fact, piperine extracted from black pepper can be mixed with other ingredients to make an analgesic cream for pain relief.
This inexpensive seasoning is thought to reduce the perception of pain, inflammation and even arthritis.
Whole cloves are often used to spice up meat and rice dishes. Ground cloves are used in pies and many other foods. As a medicine, cloves can be found in capsule or powder form. Clove oil is also available.
Like other herbal supplements, cloves are used to treat a wide range of conditions. Cloves may help ease nausea and treat colds. They may also help relieve the pain associated with headaches, arthritic inflammation, and toothaches. Cloves can also be used as part of a topical pain reliever. A study indicated that cloves could be used to treat fungal infections but further research is needed.
The active ingredient is eugenol, which is a natural pain reliever and is also used in some over-the-counter pain rubs. Rubbing a tiny amount of clove oil on your gums may temporarily ease toothache pain until you can get to a dentist. But too much undiluted clove oil may actually hurt your gums, so discuss this approach with your dentist before trying it at home.
People with bleeding disorders or who are taking blood-thinning medication should be careful when consuming clove products. Clove oil can increase the risk of abnormal bleeding.


Cardamom


In Ayurveda, cardamom has been used as a remedy for urinary tract diseases and infections like cystitis.
Studies have shown that it has gastro-protective properties and may be helpful in relieving the pain associated with stomach cramps and other stomach problems.


Devil’s Claw 


Devil’s claw is a South African herb with medicinally active roots. This herb eases muscular tension or pain in the back, shoulders and neck. A popular treatment for osteoarthritic pain, it may ease rheumatoid arthritic pain as well. The herb’s active ingredients are harpagide and harpagoside, both iridoid glycosides with analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory actions. Devil’s claw extract has been shown to reduce osteoarthritic hip or knee pain by 25 percent and improve mobility within a few weeks. Rheumatoid arthritic pain may also be reduced and mobility enhanced within about two months. Devil’s claw extract is considered safe at the typical dosage of 750 mg (containing 3 percent iridoid glycosides) taken three times daily. It is also available as tincture (use 1 teaspoon up to three times daily) and tea. It should not be taken with blood-thinning medications and may not be safe during pregnancy or for young children, nursing mothers and individuals with liver or kidney disease, or digestive system ulcers.
Many herbs and spices can treat inflammation and other related conditions. These plant-based options fall under a category of medical treatment known as complementary and alternative medicine, which also includes acupuncture, yoga, reiki and other practices. When it comes to pain relief, you may be surprised at what might help you feel better.

willow bark:

People ha
ve been using willow bark to ease inflammation (the cause of most aches and pains) for centuries. The chemical salicin, which is similar to the main ingredient in aspirin, is found in the bark of the white willow.
Originally, people chewed the bark itself to relieve pain and fevers. Now willow bark is sold as a dried herb that can be brewed like tea. It also comes as a capsule or liquid supplement. It can be used to treat headache, low back pain, osteoarthritis, and many other conditions.
However, willow bark can cause stomach upset, may slow down your kidneys, and can prolong bleeding time, just like aspirin. It should only be used by adults. It could be poisonous to children, just like aspirin can be poisonous when taken in large quantitates.
If you’re sensitive to aspirin, or if you are taking any over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) you should avoid willow bark. You should also avoid taking it if you are taking warfarin or other anticoagulant treatments, as salicin could increase the risk of bleeding.


Acupuncture:

This ancient Chinese medical practice seeks to relieve pain by balancing the body’s natural energy pathways. The flow of energy is known as qi (pronounced CHEE). Acupuncturists place tiny, and very thin needles into your skin. The location of the insertion is related to the source of the pain. But, based on the qi, a needle may be inserted far from the part of the body experiencing pain. Acupuncture may relieve pain by causing the body to release serotonin, a “feel good” chemical that eases pain.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that acupuncture helped relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis, migraines, and various locations of chronic pain.
Ginger, Turmeric, & Holy Basil – This set of herbs forms a sort of trinity in Ayurvedic medicine. All of them have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric (a curry ingredient) contains curcumins which ease inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis,
Birch Leaf (Betula Lenta) – The leaves from the Birch tree act much like cortisone, a prescription drug used to treat endocrine disorders, arthritis, lupus, skin disease, autoimmune disorders, and more. A main chemical compound found in Birch leaves is methyl salicylate, similar to salicylic acid used in aspirin. It is anti-spasmodic, analgesic, astringent, antifungal, diuretic, detoxifying, reduces oxidative damage to skin (stopping wrinkles), and enhances circulation. It also promotes enzymatic secretions in the body. It is truly one of the first powerful pain-relievers ever used.
Arnica
– An excellent herbal rub to use after intense sports, an acute injury, or even post surgery, arnica is a well-known natural pain killer among athletes and yogis. It is derived from a European flower, and has anti-inflammatory properties, although the true nature of its healing action is still unknown
Bromelain
– This natural pain-reducer comes from the enzymes present in pineapple stems. Research shows that it reduces levels of prostaglandins, which are hormones that induce inflammation. Bromelain may benefit people with arthritis and conditions marked by musculoskeletal tension (like TMJ syndrome), in addition to those suffering trauma-related inflammation. The enzyme also promotes healing in muscles and connective tissues.
Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)
– GLA can be found in numerous seed oils. According to University of Maryland, people who consume these essential fatty acids are able toreduce nerve pain associated with diabetic conditions
Chamomile:
Not just a great sleep aid, chamomile contains terpenoids and flavonoids which contribute to its medicinal properties.
Throughout history, chamomile has been used for hay fever, inflammation, muscle spasms, menstrual disorders, diaper rash, skin infections, ulcers, wounds, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatic pain, and hemorrhoids.


Cinnamon:

Cinnamon has been used in Ancient Egypt since 2000 BC as a cure for a variety of illnesses. Medieval doctors prescribed it for coughs, sore throats and arthritis.
Modern studies have shown cinnamon does indeed have antibacterial properties and can kill both E-coli and Salmonella bacteria.
And the chemical cinnamaldehyde found in cinnamon has powerful antifungal properties, making it a great cure for Candida, athlete’s foot, toenail fungus or ringworm.
It’s also used to relieve the symptoms of gastrointestinal problems and urinary infections.







29.7.16

Home remedies for a headache


Home Remedies to cure Headaches

 Peppermint Oil

Peppermint contains menthol that helps open up clogged blood vessels that cause headaches. It also has calming and soothing effects.

Mix three drops of peppermint essential oil in one tablespoon of almond oil, olive oil or just water. Massage your forehead and temples with it. Or, you can put crushed fresh peppermint leaves on your forehead.
Alternatively, you can prepare a steam treatment by adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a small pot of boiling water. Inhale the steam for a few minutes.

 Basil

Basil works as a muscle relaxant, making it a helpful treatment for mild headaches caused by tense muscles. Plus, it has calming and analgesic effects.

Put three or four fresh basil leaves in a cup of boiling water and let it simmer for a few minutes. Optionally, add a little honey and then sip the tea slowly.
You can also boil one tablespoon of basil leaves or a few drops of basil oil to a pot of boiling water and carefully lean over the pot to take in the steam.
Alternatively, chew some fresh basil leaves or massage your forehead with basil oil mixed with a base oil.

 cayenne

Utilizing something spicy may not sound headache helpful, but cayenne is somewhat revered in the kingdom of natural remedies to treat pain and inflammation. The secret behind its success lies in an ingredient called capsaicin, which inhibits something in our body that is one of the main elements in pain perception called Substance P. In short, Substance P is part of what makes us feel pain, and the capsaicin depletes it. Numerous studies, the first in 1998 in The Clinical Journal of Pain, support that when applied topically to the nasal passages; people experience a significant decrease in the severity of their headaches, all thanks to capsaicin.

You will need…
*1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
*4 ounces of warm water
*cotton swabs
Dilute a ½ teaspoon of cayenne powder in 4 ounces of warm water. Soak a cotton swab in the solution and stir it around to make sure it’s covered-the powder can sometimes sink to the bottom. Apply the moist swab gently to the inside of each nostril until you can feel the heat. It may be a bit unpleasant at first, but take the burning sensation as a sign that it’s working. When it subsides, your headache will hopefully be wiped out, or at the very least better than before.


Mint Juice

Menthol and menthone are the primary components of mint which are very effective in alleviating headaches.
Extract mint juice from a handful of mint leaves and apply it on forehead and temples to treat headache.
You can also place mint tea compresses on the forehead to relieve discomfort. Along with mint juice, corainder juice is also effective in treating headaches.
*Almonds can be a natural remedy and a healthier alternative to other medicine. It acts as a pain reliever because it contains something called salicin, which is also an agent in popular over the counter killers. Try eating a handful or two of these wholesome nuts when you feel the ache start to set in


Black cohosh. 


This native North American plant, which has a history of being used for rheumatism, can be extremely effective in treating headaches associated with what’s known as “black cloud depression.” Because the herb has estrogen effects, it is better for women, but men can take it for short periods as well.

feverfew


Headaches, particularly migraines, can be relieved through the use of the feverfew plant. When a migraine is in the works your blood vessels are changing, and theories suggest that the vessels in your head are expanding and pressing on nerves. Feverfew has been confirmed to relax the tension/constrict blood vessels, easing the painful pressure. It also reduces inflammation and pain overall with a substance called parthenolide, which has results similar to taking a daily aspirin, but without the side effects.
*1 ounce fresh or dried flowers
*1 pint of boiling water
Add 1 ounce of fresh or dried feverfew flowers to 1 pint of boiling one. Steep for 10 minutes, and then strain. Drink half a cup twice a day as needed.


Peppermint Oil

Peppermint contains menthol that helps open up clogged blood vessels that cause headaches. It also has calming and soothing effects.Mix three drops of peppermint essential oil in one tablespoon of almond oil, olive oil or just water. Massage your forehead and temples with it. Or, you can put crushed fresh peppermint leaves on your forehead.
Alternatively, you can prepare a steam treatment by adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a small pot of boiling water. Inhale the steam for a few minutes.
*It is essential that you avoid headache-inducing substances like MSG (monosodium glutamate), excessive caffeine, alcohol, phenylethylamine found in chocolate and cheese, tyramine found in nuts and fermented meats and soy, and aspartame present in many artificially sweetened foods. If you start getting a headache, steer clear of all devices including your phone, laptop and TV. Eat healthy, and at regular intervals since a drop in blood sugar can set the stage for headaches. At least thrice a week, if not more, spend 30 minutes exercising. And always, we mean always, stay hydrated.


Ginger 
Touted as an elixir for headaches, ginger is a home remedy for instant relief. It helps reduce inflammation of the blood vessels in the head, hence easing the pain. And since it stimulates digestion, it also helps quell the nausea which occurs during migraines.

Wondering how to use this miracle ingredient? Steep ginger root for tea, or mix equal parts of ginger juice and lemon juice and drink up. You can consume this once or twice a day. You can also apply a paste of ginger powder and 2 tablespoons water on your forehead for a few minutes to provide quicker relief.

Ice Pack

The cold from ice helps reduce inflammation that contributes to headaches. Plus, it has a numbing effect on the pain.
Applying an ice pack to the back of your neck can give you relief from a migraine headache.
You can also place a washcloth dipped in ice-cold water over your head for five minutes. Repeat the process several times.
Alternatively, you can use a bag of frozen vegetables as a cold compress. Within half an hour you will feel some relief.
Find some feverfew
Headaches, particularly migraines, can be relieved through the use of the feverfew plant. When a migraine is in the works your blood vessels are changing, and theories suggest that the vessels in your head are expanding and pressing on nerves. Feverfew has been confirmed to relax the tension/constrict blood vessels, easing the painful pressure. It also reduces inflammation and pain overall with a substance called parthenolide, which has results similar to taking a daily aspirin, but without the side effects.
*1 ounce fresh or dried flowers
*1 pint of boiling water
Add 1 ounce of fresh or dried feverfew flowers to 1 pint of boiling one. Steep for 10 minutes, and then strain. Drink half a cup twice a day as needed.

    Cinnamon 

    Cinnamon is a miracle spice that can effectively treat headaches. Wondering how to use it? Here's help: Grind some cinnamon sticks into a powder, and add some water to make a thick paste. Apply it on your forehead and temples and lie down for 30 minutes. Then wash it off with lukewarm water.
    Apply an apple cider vinegar compress
    Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has a long history in realm of natural remedies. It’s been used to relieve everything from scurvy to hay fever, and just about any other ailment that falls in between. Some modern day studies have proven its effectiveness in treating certain illnesses, but most of its clout lies in the reports of people throughout the centuries who have benefited from it. If you find yourself coming down with a throbbing headache, try getting some quality ACV time into your day in the form of a steam-style treatment.
    You will need…
    *1/4 cup of ACV
    -Roughly 3 cups of boiling water
    *1 cup of fresh cool water
    Pour ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar into a large bowl, and then fill the bowl halfway with boiling water. Place a towel over your head so that it drapes over the bowl, trapping the steam, and hold your face over it. Make sure your face isn’t so close that it gets burned by the steam. Do this for 5-10 minutes, or when the water starts to cool down, breathing in and out deeply the whole time. When you’re done, use the towel to pat your face dry, and go drink a glass of cool water.

    White willow bark.

     White willow bark, like other headache herbal remedies, relieves pain. But as an analgesic, it masks the pain rather than addressing the underlying cause of the headache the way other herbs do. “You have to take it in pretty high doses, but it will work,” says Lawton. “But I would recommend using it in combination with another herb so that the underlying cause can be addressed.

    Basic Stretches

    A few simple exercises to stretch your head and neck can help reduce the intensity of the headache. Move your chin upwards and downwards, left and right, and bend your neck sideways towards each shoulder. You can also try to slowly rotate the neck in clockwise and anticlockwise directions to help the shoulder and neck muscles relax. So when a headache looms, you know what to do.

    Passionflower. 

    Traditionally used as a calming herb for such conditions as anxiety and insomnia, passionflower can also be helpful in easing headaches for people of a certain constitution. “As the name suggests, passionflower is good for people who get easily worked up about life,” says Lawton. “For people who are very passionate, who get easily angered, this herb calms the nervous system and makes them less likely to hold onto the headache.

    Cloves

    Cloves can be used to ease a throbbing headache due to its cooling and pain-relieving properties. Crush a few cloves gently and put them in a sachet or a clean handkerchief. Inhale the smell of the crushed cloves whenever you have a headache until you get some relief from the pain. You can also put 2 drops of clove oil in a tablespoon of coconut oil plus sea salt and gently massage your forehead and temples with it.