Pain Relief

Hi everyone!

I'm wondering if anyone here knows of a good holistic/all natural pain reliever. Or, if it can't be natural, then some kind of pharmaceutical we can have. I know we can't do NSAIDS because of the ulcer risk, and I really am not comfortable taking Tylenol because of the cirrhosis in my liver.  I have arthritis in my hip and I'd like to be able to do something about it on damp days like this when it flares up and hurts.  Any suggestions? Thanks!

I am not a medical practitioner HOWEVER I subscribe to natural path medicine ideas and treatment. Here is one ideas:

Capsaicin: For arthritis, shingles, or neuropathy What the science says: An active component of chile pepper, capsaicin temporarily desensitizes pain-prone skin nerve receptors called C-fibers; soreness is diminished for 3 to 5 weeks while they regain sensation. Nearly 40 percent of arthritis patients reduced their pain by half after using a topical capsaicin cream for a month, and 60 percent of neuropathy patients achieved the same after 2 months, according to a University of Oxford study. Patients at the New England Center for Headache decreased their migraine and cluster headache intensity after applying capsaicin cream inside their nostrils.

How to try it: Capsaicin ointments and creams are sold in pharmacies and health stores. For arthritis or neuropathy, try 0.025 percent or 0.075 percent capsaicin cream one to four times daily; best results can take up to 2 weeks, says Philip Gregory, PharmD, a professor at Creighton University and editor of the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. But research on capsaicin and headaches remains limited — and don't expect stronger versions anytime soon: "Current formulations are better suited for more acute problems, like a sore muscle or an arthritis flare-up, than everyday pain and stiffness," Gregory says.

Again, I am NOT a medical practisnoer  or qualified to dispense medical advice. Best of luck to you!

I use turmeric, but it's not something you just take on days it flares up, you have to take it regularly.  And some people shouldn't take it, like if you are on blood thinners, so definitely do some research before you decide about it.

Otherwise, how about just using a heating pad and/or taking hot baths on those days?  I find a hot bath with Epsom salts and essential oils (I like eucalyptus and rosemary oil) helps with that type of pain some.

I use a few naturals.

Gaia herbs is really good... "http://www.gaiaherbs.com/products/detail/757/Turmeric-Supreme-Pain"

Marijuana if you live in one of the enlightened states 

Fish oil is supposed to be a natural anti-inflammatory, but you need to take it regularly and not just when you're in pain.

Joan