While there are many chemical formulas readily available to treat and manage pain, side effects accompanying them can sometimes prove to be more detrimental. Many foods contain powerful healing abilities, not to mention, they come without side effects and can be obtained without breaking the bank. Colorful fruits and vegetables could be converted to the new medicine cabinet, they are inexpensive in the long term, and they taste so much better.

Although, there are many foods, herbs, and spices that could be used for pain management, I will outline the most easily available seasonal items known to have pain reliving powers and have been evaluated for their benefits by several scientific studies, additionally, I have outlined foods that are not merely in use due to anecdotal evidence. Of course, if one suffers from chronic pains resulting from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other such conditions, these foods could be used in addition to prescribed pain management treatments under the care of a health professional.

Foods (RX) for Pain Management:

1. Grapes: known to contain an anti-inflammatory compound called resveratrol. This compound can help reduce inflammation thus decreasing pain. Resveratrol can be found in berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries.
2. Cherries: A recent study at the University of Michigan revealed that cherries can have similar effects in the body as that of aspirin. In fact, tart cherry extract was proven to be at least ten folds stronger than aspirin.
3. Ginger: this root has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries in parts of Asia. Ginger is known to reduce pain causing prostaglandins and reducing associated inflammation. In fact, ginger can be used for nausea, migraines, and several muscular aches and pains.
4. Turmeric: this novel spice deserves an exclusive article on the many cancer fighting, anti-oxidant, and pain relieving benefits. Use of curcumin or turmeric can be very effective in combating pain associated with arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis. Has been shown to be very effective against chronic muscular distress and pain.
5. Salmon: this omega-3 fatty acid rich fish has proven to be beneficial when dealing with osteoarthritis and joint pains. Omega -3 fatty acids when consumed are converted to hormone like substances and if consumed regularly, can destroy almost 50% of cytokines (compounds that cause inflammation of joints).
6. Walnuts: both raw walnuts and walnut oils are rich in anti-inflammatory substances that would help decrease muscle and joint pain. Aside from being a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are rich in magnesium, a mineral known for its muscle relaxant qualities.
7. Flax seed oil/Olive oil: these omega-3 rich oils can function as strong anti-inflammatories and pain blockers in the body, in addition to providing lubrication for the joints and being very helpful in the management of osteoarthritis and other joint pains.
8. Coffee: If you have observed, most OTC pain medications come with added caffeine. In moderation, coffee can be used as a pain reliever and post-workout relaxant. In fact, it has been common practice to use caffeine as a treatment for minor headaches and migraines in many cultures.
9. Sage: sage has been used to treat minor throat issues like tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, and gum disease for centuries. Sage contains an anti-inflammatory rosmarinic acid which can help sooth muscles by combating inflammation thus relieving pain caused by the inflammation.

Pain management treatments are limitless when ones kitchen is the active medicine cabinet.

 

Disclaimer: It is a good idea to consult with your health professional before starting any regimen especially if one has any preexisting conditions or, you are pregnant, nursing, and/or taking prescription medication.