Which Herbs are a Reliable Alternative for Chronic Pain?

Many people who suffer from chronic addictions, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and chronic pain feel that the only solution is pharmaceutical drugs. But what if there was a reliable alternative? An alternative that would not have side effects and would allow patients to work through the pain.

Herbal Alternatives
There are several herbs that are used for pain/discomfort. This does not necessarily mean that these herbs act identical to the pharmaceutical drugs, however sometimes they do. Below are some examples of herbal alternatives:

Pain: Inflammatory (osteoarthritis and sports injuries)
Pharmaceutical Drug: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Herbs: Willow bark, Ginger, Turmeric, Celery

Pain: Autoimmunity (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
Pharmaceutical Drug: Corticosteroid drugs
Herbs: Turmeric, Feverfew

Pain: Spasm pain (tension headaches)
Pharmaceutical Drug: Antispasmodic drugs
Herbs: Corydalis, Wild yam, California poppy

Pain: Neuralgic pain (cancer pain and fibromyalgia)
Pharmaceutical Drug: Opiates, Antidepressants
Herbs: California poppy, Corydalis, Jamaica dogwood

All the herbs mentioned can be useful alternatives for the types of pain described. They may need to be utilized in high doses but according to research they are safe and surprisingly effective with beneficial effects in pain relief.

Reference: Bone, Kerry. Author of Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy and the Essential Guide to Herbal Safety.