5 Best Natural And Safer Alternatives To Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is the most popular over-the-counter medication for treating pain and fever. By inhibiting production of hormones that trigger inflammatory reactions, it helps in providing relief from pain. However, ibuprofen can cause serious side effects, especially if you take this medication for a prolonged period. It can damage the stomach and intestines. Overuse of ibuprofen tends to increase risk of stroke. Fortunately, there are a number of natural alternatives to ibuprofen that are especially beneficial for treating chronic pain and inflammation.

Studies Have Shown That The Following Natural Remedies Are As Effective As Ibuprofen:

Turmeric

In Ayurveda, turmeric is highly valued for its pain relief property. Modern studies have shown that turmeric is as effective as ibuprofen with fewer side effects. The healing property of ibuprofen is attributed to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of its main bioactive constituent curcumin. It works by depleting a pain receptor known as substance P from the nerve endings that help in reducing transmission of pain signals. Furthermore, curcumin suppresses activities of inflammatory proteins.

White Willow Bark

White willow bark contains salicin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. It helps in providing relief from pain and inflammation without causing gastrointestinal damage. Instead of ibuprofen, you can use white willow bark for treating headache, joint pain and low back pain.

Cayenne Pepper

The hotness of cayenne pepper is due to a compound called capsaicin. Capsaicin helps in blocking transmission of the pain signal. Cayenne pepper is often used topically to numb the painful area. When taken internally it helps in suppressing activity of inflammatory molecules, thereby alleviating the pain and inflammation.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil contains oleocanthal, a phenolic compound, that studies have shown is a better alternative to ibuprofen in managing chronic pain. Not only is extra virgin olive oil a safe natural pain killer, it is loaded with beneficial properties that are good for your overall health.

Indian Frankincense

The gum resin of Indian frankincense is an excellent alternative to ibuprofen. Boswellic acids, the main active constituents of the gum resin, suppress activities of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby providing relief from inflammation and pain. The natural pain-killer is especially effective for treating chronic arthritis pain.