Toothache, stomach cramps: Natural ways to treat or heal pain

Certain chemicals called prostaglandins released at the site of the pain sensation. These irritate the nerve endings which carry signals to the brain. The brain interprets these signals and that's how we feel pain.
 

First Published Jun 26, 2021, 5:23 PM IST

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We've practically all had that stabbing headache from a long day's work or a piercing muscle cramp when we've got carried away with those weights in the gym. Sharp or dull - we've been in pain and more often than once.
 

While it might ease off or decide to cling to you, you usually have two choices - pop pills or bear with it. What if you could relieve the agony without a prescription? That's the good news; you just might be able to.
 

Pain is more than just a reaction to a physical symptom - it is a perception. It relates to how you assess the physical sensation. While the Romans and Greeks theorized this idea of pain, by the 19th century, various studies found their place in scientific literature. It was then established that pain is a feeling triggered by the nervous system. Here are some ancient herbs and spices that can tame the pain.

Neem and clove oil for toothache: It benefits in dental and oral care by inhibiting bacteria that cause tooth decay. Neem can also fight infectious mutans and dental caries. Clove and clove oil is known to have both analgesic and antibacterial properties, and like neem, it can be helped in curbing a toothache caused by bacteria. Neem leaves can be chewed while clove oil should be applied. You can also gargle with neem oil for better results.

Fennel for stomach cramps: Fennel (saunf) exhibits antibacterial and antiviral activities. It acts as a carminative - an herb or preparation which is known to prevent the formation of gas. It also has stomachic reducing properties which means that it helps in toning the stomach and improves digestive functions. Applying fennel oil has been reported to relieve menstrual cramps. It is an excellent source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and zinc. It is also hepato-protective, and has the ability to prevent damage to the liver. It can be powdered and mixed with soda bicarbonate, water and a pinch of black salt. This creates a synergistic effect.

Coriander and tulsi for joint and muscle pain: Coriander (dhaniya) has been known as an analgesic, carminative, digestive, depurative (detoxifying), anti-rheumatic (joint pains) and antispasmodic (muscle spasms) agent. It can be used externally to treat ulcers and rheumatism (joint related ailments). Tulsi also works in relieving joint pain and pain related to arthritis.

Ginger for inflammation and headache: Ginger is a popular anti-nausea and carminative ingredient. It has been used by people to cure motion sickness. It fights bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Ginger oil acts as an anti-inflammatory for arthritis and headaches. In simple terms, inflammation refers to swelling. It can be rubbed on the affected area. Its diaphoretic effect is known to keep your body warm.

Hing (Asafoetida) for indigestion: It reduces the growth of indigenous microflora in the gut and also helps in relieving flatulence. It is an antispasmodic which means that it relieves the spasm by counteracting the effects of a hormone produced by the nerves called neurohormone acetylcholine. By doing so, the secretion of stomach acids and digestive enzymes is reduced and regulated. Take a pinch of hing, mix it in a spoonful of lukewarm water and rub it on your stomach.
 

Green Cardamom: Cardamom is known to enhance the effectiveness of carminative (that combat flatulence) drugs. It is officially recognized in British and US pharmacopoeias and is used as an aromatic stimulant, carminative and flavouring agent. Chewing cardamom helps in regulating digestive functions.

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