According to the American Academy of Pain Management, an estimated 50 million Americans live with some form of chronic pain. The most common types include muscle and bone/joint pain. Conventional meds like acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen can lead to stomach bleeding, kidney and liver dysfunction, or cardiovascular problems when used long-term at high doses. “Natural pain relievers can significantly reduce symptoms, speed healing, and help address underlying metabolic imbalances to relieve pain before it starts,” says herbalist Christopher Hobbs, LAc, AHG. “Unlike over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription drugs, they have minimal potential to stress the liver, kidneys, or affect digestive health,” he adds.

The Benefits of Butterbur

Severe headache, dizziness, nausea—nothing can ruin a perfect day like a migraine. Prescription or OTC drugs can have dangerous and uncomfortable side effects, including rebound headaches, exhaustion, depression, weight gain, and insomnia. Several placebo-controlled, double-blind studies indicate that butterbur extract is safe and effective for treating migraines. In one open study of children and adolescents suffering from severe migraines, 77 percent reported at least a 50 percent reduction in frequency of migraine attacks. Researchers aren’t certain how butterbur works, but some studies suggest that the herb prevents swelling and relieves pressure on the blood vessels in the brain. Use only standardized butterbur supplements since butterbur from the plant itself has toxic properties.

Healing Heat

For pain caused by inflammation, such as lower backache and neuralgia, consider cayenne. Cayenne contains a substance called capsaicin, the chemical that gives it a hot and spicy taste. Capsaicin blocks the transport of pain messages to the brain by desensitizing nerve endings. Cayenne can be taken internally as a standardized extract or a powder mixed with water. If you like spicy food, simply add cayenne pepper to your diet. Be aware that this pepper may cause discomfort in people with ulcers.

Homeopathic Arnica also has anti-inflammatory properties and is believed to relieve pain temporarily when applied topically.

Naturally Soothing

White willow, considered the natural origin of modern aspirin, may be useful for joint pain because it contains high levels of salicin. The body converts the salicin in white willow into salicylic acid, the chemical form required to counteract pain, cool inflammation, and deter heart-threatening blood clots, says herbalist James A. Duke, PhD.

Devil’s claw has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is traditionally used to treat rheumatism and arthritis. A number of other herbs, including chamomile, ginger, holy basil, and turmeric, may also help reduce joint pain.

Words To the Wise

Herbal supplements sometimes take days or weeks to work because they help address the underlying problems that cause chronic pain. To feel confident that you receive the same amount of active ingredient each dose, buy standardized supplements.

Consult your physician or a certified herbalist before using herbal pain relievers to ensure that natural supplements will not interact with any medications you are currently taking. Women who are pregnant or nursing should use caution when considering therapeutic doses of herbal supplements.

More Natural Solutions

For arthritis pain, 1,500 mg of glucosamine may help, especially when taken daily with 600 to 1,200 mg of chondroitin sulfate and 2,000 to 8,000 mg of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). The combination can rebuild cartilage, though it may take four to eight weeks to be effective.

Celadrin, a patented blend of acetylated fatty acids, may also relieve joint pain. “Unlike popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that simply mask joint discomfort, Celadrin targets the root source of pain and inflammation by restoring vital fluids and conditioning the cell membranes that cushion bones and joints,” says Marcia Zimmerman, MEd, CN. Because Celadrin does not contain shellfish extracts, it is suitable for those who are unable to take glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate because of shellfish allergies, Zimmerman adds.

Consider omega-3-rich fish oil for joint inflammation and pain as well. In a study of 125 patients taking fish oil for neck and back pain, 60 percent reported that their joint pain had improved by day 75 of treatment. No significant side effects were noted.