In our modern age of “better living through chemistry,” we tend to fall into the habit of just popping a pill when we experience pain. But through thousands of years of holistic medicine, people were relieving pain with purposeful eating and non-invasive practices. In most cases, natural treatment has little to no side effects.
Sometimes it’s better to do something than to take something. The following 7 natural pain relief techniques are all worth trying before you resort to medication because they can really work. And when you attempt natural healing first, you get a sense of the severity of your condition. If nothing but pills work, it’s important to check in with your doctor to determine whether something serious is going on.
But for run-of-the-mill aches and pains, a natural technique could very well do the trick. Try out these 7 time-worn strategies for feeling your best. Technique #7 is actually closely related to a well-known OTC analgesic!
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture has featured in traditional Chinese medicine for 2,000 years and is now practiced all over the world. The process involves inserting very thin needles into specific parts of the body. The holistic explanation for why it relieves pain is that it balances your chi. Western doctors believe that acupuncture works because it stimulates nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. At least they agree that it works!
If you are interested in trying acupuncture for nagging pain, be sure to choose an experienced practitioner. Know that the law requires that new needles are used with every patient. For the most part, the side effects of acupuncture are minimal, but it is possible that you’ll experience a bit of soreness or light bruising at some insertion points. Pregnant women and people with a bleeding disorder should not get acupuncture.
