It doesn’t matter which way you’re suffering in – whether it’s a headache, menstrual cramps, your arthritis is flaring up, or you’ve got muscle pain from playing sports – sometimes you just need some Advil (or another form of ibuprofen) to feel human again. Sure, the ibuprofen helps you feel better in a matter of minutes, but do you know what kind of long-term damage or side effects you could suffer from when all you’re looking to do is deal with some short-term pain?
Highlights
- ? The article discusses the risks associated with ibuprofen use, such as increased chances of heart and circulation issues and gastrointestinal problems.
- ? Omega-3 Fatty Acids are presented as a safer alternative to ibuprofen, particularly for their anti-inflammatory properties and lower risk of cardiovascular issues.
- ? Capsaicin, found in chili peppers, is suggested as a topical treatment for nerve, joint, or muscle pain, serving as a potential replacement for ibuprofen.
- ? Other natural remedies like Curcumin, Feverfew, and White Willow are also discussed as alternatives for various types of pain, including Rheumatoid Arthritis and migraines.
The Side Effects and Damages You Risk by Taking Ibuprofen
While taking a couple of pills with ibuprofen might seem completely harmless (and even beneficial) at the time, there are quite a few risks associated with the drug. For instance, taking ibuprofen puts you at an increased risk for heart and circulation issues, meaning that taking the edge off of that headache increases your risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
Ibuprofen also increases your risk of gastrointestinal issues such as stomach and intestinal tract bleeding and perforation. If you absolutely have to take the drug, ensure that you do so with food to lessen the chance of it eating away at your stomach.
The good news is that you won’t have to choose between heightening your heart attack risk or suffering in extreme pain – To get the same kind of relief without all the risk, you don’t have to look much further than your kitchen (and the furthest you’ll have to go is your local health food store)!
Safe Alternatives to Ibuprofen
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
We all know that we should be getting our Omegas for optimal health, but what you probably didn’t know is that the Omega-3 fatty acids actually have anti-inflammatory properties, which makes them the perfect alternative to the ibuprofen based medication that you’re currently taking for your arthritis or inflammatory bowel syndrome.
Omega-3s have also been found to reduce your risk of cardiovascular issues, which makes them a perfect solution for anyone that suffers from RA because Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferers have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular issues.
If you get your Omega-3s from fish oil, the suggested dose is 1,000mg daily*.
Curcumin
You’ve probably had turmeric at least once. Curcumin is a component of that herb that works as a potent painkiller.
Curcumin can block the proteins in the body that are causing the inflammation and stop the Substance P neurotransmitter from sending pain messages to the brain. Studies suggest that it just might be the perfect alternative for anyone who suffers from the chronic pain that comes along with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
To help with pain and inflammation, take 400-600mg of Curcumin three times per day*.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the active component in chili peppers. You can purchase it at your local health food store (possibly even pharmacy) as a topical cream or gel; the elements interfere with Substance P and help to block your brain from sending pain transmitters.
If you currently take ibuprofen for nerve, joint, or muscle pain, you might want to consider replacing the drug with Capsaicin. You may experience some burning or stinging when you first start using it, but that sensation will generally subside with continued use.
The gels and creams generally come with a potency between 0.025% and 0.075% and is applied three to four times per day*.
Feverfew
Feverfew is a plant that grows perennially in Europe and most of North America. If you’re someone who suffers from migraines regularly, you should seriously consider trying this natural remedy.
You can purchase it in freeze-dried capsules at your local health food store. It can also be taken as a tea but is incredibly bitter.
To help get rid of migraines and other pain with Feverfew, 250mg per day is usually enough*.
White Willow
While Willow Bark is what everyone used for pain before pharmaceutical companies took over the medical world (The original aspirin), willow bark can be used for everything from helping to break a fever to an anti-inflammatory. While taking Willow Bark might increase your risk of bleeding, that risk is still lower than taking asprin.
The dose you should be taking depends on what type of ailment you’re trying to combat (anywhere from 120-2160mg), so please consult a nutritionist or pharmacist before taking it*.
*Please remember that you should always consult with a medical professional before taking yourself off of any ibuprofen-based medication that your doctor prescribed.
Taking small steps toward optimal health doesn’t have to be difficult. Sometimes, it’s as easy as starting small, such as substituting poison for natural pain relief.
