by MARSHALL BONE
If you’re someone who deals with physical discomfort on a daily basis, you know what a pain it can be, in both a figurative and literal sense. Even a small amount of regular discomfort can make it difficult for you to do things like hold a steady job or spend time with your loved ones. This is why you should do whatever it takes to get to the bottom of this discomfort, if possible, so you can work on reducing it.
According to the CDC, about 50 million American adults—or right around 20 percent of the adult population in the U.S.—suffer from pain to some degree every day. This pain can result in discomfort that can even be debilitating at times. There are several herbal products and supplements that might help make this discomfort more manageable. Let’s take a look at five of them below.
1. Ginger
When you think about using ginger to support your wellness, you most likely associate it with treating the common cold. The average American adult gets a cold about two to four times each year, and many people will turn to ginger and, more specifically, ginger tea in an attempt to help their cold-related symptoms. However, ginger supplements might also be able to help soothe other forms of discomfort.
Studies done on ginger have suggested adding it to your diet or routine might provide you with anti-inflammatory properties which can help eliminate pain and discomfort. In fact, one 2015 study, in particular, pointed out it might be as effective as certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs when it comes to treating discomfort. To fully support this claim, more research is needed, but this evidence is promising.
2. Turmeric
Many people have turmeric in their kitchens for cooking, but they don’t always realize that, like ginger, it might be a tool they can use to minimize discomfort. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin that may play a key role in calming down the nervous system and reducing pain and discomfort.
Early studies done on the potential connection between turmeric and discomfort relief have found that turmeric supplements might stop inflammatory proteins known as cytokines from forming in the body. If these cytokines are allowed to manifest in a person’s body and get too out of control, it can lead to a condition called cytokine storm syndrome that can result in serious pain, inflammation, and discomfort. Turmeric may help control cytokines and stop pain and discomfort from setting in.
3. White Willow Bark
White willow bark is similar to the aforementioned ginger in that studies have shown it might be as effective at treating discomfort as acetylsalicylic acid (also known as Aspirin). These studies have discovered that this herbal supplement has a compound called salicin that acts like Aspirin in the body. As a result, it may help to ward off any pain and discomfort you might be feeling,
In addition to salicin, white willow bark also contains compounds called polyphenols and flavonoids which may help the body in many ways. One of the things these chemicals might be able to do is reduce inflammation in the body and the discomfort that can so often come with it.
4. Boswellia
Boswellia is an herbal supplement that has been used by those who practice Ayurveda in India for centuries now. It comes from a resin that is produced by the bark of frankincense trees, and while it’s often used to make things like soaps and cosmetics, it’s also sometimes taken in supplement form to ease pain and discomfort.
There is still a lot of work to be done as far as studying boswellia and its potential benefits. But early studies have hinted at the fact that boswellia might be a useful tool for those who suffer from discomfort due to mobility issues. Taking boswellia supplements might help make you more mobile and reduce the pain you feel.
5. Kratom
Kratom comes from the leaves of tropical evergreen trees, or Mitragyna speciosa trees, that are native to Southeast Asia. These leaves can be used to create supplements that contain red vein kratom. Unlike other forms of kratom, red vein kratom is produced using only the most mature leaves on these trees. The veins and stems on the leaves will turn red to signify that they’re as mature as they’re going to get.
Throughout history, kratom has been used in Southeast Asia to help with everything from fatigue to muscle cramps to diarrhea. However, current users across the world report kratom may help soothe discomfort. If you’re looking to purchase kratom, it’s best to choose a company that tests their products so you know exactly what you’re getting before you buy.
See What Works For You
Any one of these herbal supplements may be worth trying if you’re struggling to soothe pain and discomfort. Before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine, it’s always best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to make sure these changes will have the results you want. You might be able to get back to leading a normal life by figuring out which herbal supplements can produce the best results.
Marshall Bone is a writer, copy strategist and all-around stylish guy who has been following trends in GQ for more than two decades. Voted best-dressed both his junior and senior year, Bone has continued this legacy and can be found covering various topics from men’s fashion to self care and grooming. He enjoys reading and is based in the greater Los Angeles area.
