Natural Pain Relief: 9 Alternatives to Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen or Aspirin

When people experience a minor headache, muscle tension or other pain, they readily reach for over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and acetaminophen—the most commonly used drugs in the U.S. But regular use of these drugs can lead to long-term side effects like intestinal damage, liver failure and more, recent research reveals. Before popping the pills, consider these natural, alternative remedies to pain.

1. Ginger

The powerful anti-inflammatory ginger is more effective than drugs like ibuprofen for pain relief, according to a 2013 study published in the journal Arthritis. The study revealed that drugs like Tylenol or Advil do block the formation of inflammatory compounds. Ginger, however, "blocks the formation of the inflammatory compounds–prostaglandins and leukotrienes–and also has antioxidant effects that break down existing inflammation and acidity in the fluid within the joints," reported care2.com.

2. Turmeric

This distinctive, curry spice possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, according to Doctor Oz. It also improves circulation and prevents blood clotting. Turmeric's active ingredient curcumin is responsible for lowering the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation.

3. Capsaicin

Derived from chili peppers, this topical remedy reduces nerve, muscle and joint pain by stopping the chemical known as substance P from transmitting pain signals to the brain. Available in gel or cream form, it can be applied three to four times daily.

4. Valerian Root

"Nature's tranquilizer," valerian root helps relieve insomnia, tension, irritability, stress, and anxiety, Doctor Oz says. Through reducing nerve sensitivity, it alleviates feelings of pain. Drink a cup of valerian tea for pain relief and body aches.

5. Magnesium

Magnesium supplements can help curb the pain of migraines, muscle spasms and fibromyalgia. "It's really easy to be magnesium deficient," Tanya Edwards, MD, medical director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, told WebMD. Heavy consumption of alcohol lowers magnesium levels. "The foods that are highest in magnesium are things like sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds. Most of us just don't eat those very often."

6. Cats Claw

Named for its hook-like horns, cat's claw, a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest and other places in South America, is known for containing an anti-inflammatory agent that aids in blocking the production of the hormone prostaglandin, which contributes to inflammation and pain within the body. Stick to the suggested doses to avoid diarrhea: 250 to 1,000 mg capsules one to three times daily.

7. Boswellia

Commonly known as Indian frankincense, boswellia contains active components like resin that reduce inflammation and pain. It can be taken as a supplement as well as used topically.

8. White willow bark

The original Aspirin, white willow bark contains salicin which, in the stomach, converts to salicylic acid—the primary component of Aspirin. Synthetically, it can irritate the stomach, but naturally through white willow bark, it is effective in relieving pain, inflammation and fever. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 dropperfuls of white willow bark tincture daily.

9. Essential oils

Keep essential oils on hand. Rub chamomile, lavender or sage into temples, chest or sore joints to relax muscles and calm the mind. Aromatherapy relieves stress—often the root of our pain.

10) Peppermint Oil, or even Peppermint Leaf

If either are rubbed into the site of pain in a headache it will relieve the pain. I was told this many years ago by a friend and I smirked as I did as he told me to do. It did relieve the headache while leaving the cool sensation of the mint in it's place. This one I bring up from my own actual experience.