Top 12 Herbs and Other Remedies for Natural Pain Relief

January 07, 2025By Pedram Mehrshahi

Table of Content

Pain touches everyone's life at some point, and more people now look for natural ways to handle it.

Our top 12 herbs and remedies for pain relief are backed by science that might help you feel better. These remedies ease discomfort in different ways and include ancient herbs that fight inflammation and heart disease.

They also include simple home treatments. Some worry natural options may not work as well as medicines. But, research shows many can improve how you feel each day.

1. CBD Oil Natural Pain Relief

CBD oil has gained attention as a natural option for managing various types of pain. This hemp-derived compound works with your body's pain control system. It won't make you feel 'high' like cannabis does.

Research suggests CBD helps with stubborn pain that other treatments struggle to handle. Studies show it might reduce inflammation and help nerve-related pain. Athletes often use it for muscle recovery, while people with long-term conditions find it helps them sleep better and feel less tense.

You can find CBD as oils,creams or balms, gummies, or patches. Look for products from trusted companies like Kloris that show lab test results. Start with a small amount and slowly increase it until you find what works for you.

2. Boswellia

Boswellia, also known as frankincense, stands out as a powerful natural pain reliever, especially for people with arthritis pain. This ancient remedy comes from the resin of Boswellia trees, which grow mainly in India, Africa, and the Middle East.

Studies show impressive results for people with joint problems. In a large study with 545 participants, Boswellia helped ease pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis. The herb works by blocking certain chemicals in the body that cause swelling, making it useful for both short-term and chronic pain.

You can find Boswellia as tablets, capsules, or creams. Most people take 300-500 mg two or three times a day for pain relief. Look for products that say 'standardised extract' on the label, as these contain the right amount of active ingredients.

Related: 8 Best Natural Pain Relievers

3. Turmeric

Turmeric gives curry its bright yellow colour and brings more than just flavour to your food. This common spice has become popular as a natural pain reliever thanks to its key ingredient, curcumin.

Scientists have found that curcumin fights inflammation in the body, making it helpful for muscle pain and chronic pain. It works like a shield, protecting your cells from damage while easing swelling and discomfort. Many people with joint problems say turmeric helps them move more easily.

You can add turmeric to your cooking or take it as a supplement. For the best results, look for supplements that include black pepper extract (piperine), as this helps your body absorb the turmeric better.

Most people take 500-2000 mg of turmeric daily. The fresh root also works well in smoothies or tea for natural pain relief.

4. Ginger

Ginger adds a spicy kick to food and offers impressive pain-relieving properties. This root, used in traditional medicine for centuries, works similarly to modern anti-inflammatory drugs but comes with fewer side effects.

A 2017 study found ginger powder matched ibuprofen's power in easing post-surgery pain. For people who exercise, taking 2 grams of ginger daily reduces muscle soreness and helps recovery. The natural compounds in ginger seem to block the same pathways as many pain medications.

You can use fresh ginger in cooking, brew it as tea, or add it to smoothies. For joint pain or nerve pain, look for high-quality supplements that list the amount of active compounds. Fresh ginger often works better than dried versions, and you can store the root in your freezer to make it last longer.

5. Lavender

Lavender does more than make your home smell nice. This versatile herb ranks high among natural pain relief options, with science backing up its calming powers.

Research shows how inhaling lavender oil or putting it on your skin can lessen pain. One study looked at people getting needles in their arteries and found that lavender notably reduced their discomfort. Scientists also say that lavender has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain.

You can use lavender oil in many ways, but safety comes first. Never swallow it, as it can be harmful. If you want to put it on your skin, mix a few drops with a plain oil like coconut or olive oil first.

A good rule is 3-5 drops of lavender oil for each spoonful of plain oil. Always check with your doctor before trying new herbal remedies.

6. Bromelain

Bromelain, a compound found in pineapples, serves as a powerful addition to your pain relief toolkit. Scientists have discovered that this natural enzyme helps control inflammation by lowering certain hormones in your body called prostaglandins.

Research highlights bromelain's benefits for people with arthritis and jaw pain (TMJ syndrome). It also shows promise for people recovering from injuries or accidents, as it seems to speed up healing in muscles and supporting tissues.

Most people get bromelain from supplements since you'd need to eat large amounts of pineapple to match the doses used in studies.

The typical dose ranges from 500-2000 mg daily between meals. While bromelain generally proves safe, talk to your doctor first if you take blood thinners, as this enzyme might increase their effects.

7. Devil's Claw

Devil's Claw, a herb from South Africa, has caught the attention of scientists for its impressive pain-fighting abilities. This herb got its name from its hook-like fruit, but its roots hold the key to its pain-relieving powers.

Research shows Devil's Claw works particularly well for joint-related problems. People with arthritis often report feeling better after taking it, noting they can move more freely and enjoy daily activities again. The herb seems to help with back and neck discomfort and conditions affecting tendons.

You can find Devil's Claw as tablets, capsules, or liquid extracts. Most people take 600-2600 mg daily, split into two or three doses. Make sure to check with your doctor before starting, as it might not suit everyone, especially people with stomach ulcers or heart conditions.

8. Rosemary

Rosemary works as both a tasty herb in cooking and a valuable tool for pain relief. While many people know it from their kitchen gardens, scientists have found that rosemary oil can help with various types of pain, including headaches and muscle discomfort.

Studies suggest rosemary has several helpful effects on the body. It can reduce swelling, help muscles relax, and even boost nervous system health. Beyond pain relief, researchers have found promising results when using rosemary oil for conditions like anxiety and depression.

To use rosemary oil safely, mix it with a plain oil like olive oil first. The right amount is about 3-5 drops of rosemary oil for each spoonful of plain oil. You can then rub this mixture on sore areas. Some people also find relief from breathing in the scent of rosemary oil.

9. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil offers another option for people looking to treat pain naturally. This oil comes from eucalyptus trees and has shown promise in helping reduce swelling and discomfort in various parts of the body.

A 2022 study focused on people with rheumatoid arthritis found striking results. When participants breathed in eucalyptus oil for 5 minutes three times daily for a month, they reported less pain and felt better overall. The oil seems particularly helpful for knee pain and other joint-related issues.

However, eucalyptus demands careful handling. Never use it around children, as it can cause breathing problems. Also, never swallow it, as it's toxic. If you want to put it on your skin, mix a few drops with a plain oil and test it on a small area first.

10. Feverfew

Feverfew, a plant related to daisies, has earned respect among people who suffer from migraines and arthritis. Its name comes from its traditional use in reducing fevers, but modern science shows it can do much more.

The plant contains special compounds that help reduce swelling and stop muscle spasms. While scientists still study exactly how it works, they believe substances called sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids play a key role.

The American Migraine Foundation notes that feverfew likely helps prevent migraines, though results vary among different people.

Recent research from 2023 points out that feverfew fights inflammation and protects nerve cells. However, some people might experience nausea, digestive issues, or bloating when taking it. Always check with your doctor before starting feverfew.

11. Acupuncture

Acupuncture stands out among complementary therapies as a time-tested method for pain management. This Chinese practice uses hair-thin needles placed at specific points on your body to change how your brain processes pain signals.

Science suggests acupuncture works by triggering your body to release serotonin, a natural substance that helps control pain.

Research shows promising results for musculoskeletal pain, with many people reporting significant relief after regular sessions. The treatment seems to promote healing while lowering stress levels in the body.

Qualified acupuncturists know exactly where to place the needles, even if that spot sits far from where you feel pain. The practice has gained respect in modern medicine, with many doctors now recommending it alongside traditional treatments.

12. Heat and ice

Understanding when to use heat or ice makes a big difference in pain relief. While simple, these methods work well to reduce inflammation and ease various types of chronic pain conditions.

Ice works best right after an injury. It helps reduce swelling and inflammatory pain by slowing down blood flow to the area. Put an ice pack on sprains, strains, or bumps for 15-20 minutes at a time. For headaches, a cold pack on your forehead often brings quick relief.

Heat suits ongoing problems better, especially for people with chronic conditions or neuropathic pain. It increases blood flow, relaxes tight muscles, and helps nutrients reach sore areas.

Moist heat works particularly well for arthritis. You can use a warm, damp towel or special heat packs that go in the microwave.

Access Pain Relief Support Today

These 12 herbs and remedies for natural pain relief show how nature offers many ways to help us feel better. Each option brings its own benefits, from easing everyday aches to helping with long-term pain.

While these natural remedies can work well on their own or alongside regular medicine, always talk to your doctor first.

They can help you choose the safest options, especially if you have other health concerns. With the right approach, these natural solutions might help you find the relief you've been looking for.

Take your journey to pain relief further by using CBD products from KLORIS; made for a pain-free and relaxed life.

Also Read: CBD Muscle Balms: How They Work & Best Uses