Ibuprofen is a “non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug” (NSAID), it is widely used by many people as a painkiller. Unfortunately as with every drug, it comes with the risk of a few serious side effects such as internal bleeding, gastrointestinal issues and cardiac problems. Regardless, it remains to be a highly popular painkiller drug which is available over the counter around the world.
Strangely enough just because you don’t usually react to ibuprofen does not mean that you will never react; there have been multiple reported cases where people have had experienced severe reactions to their usual ‘go-to’ painkiller. You do need to take into account though any other interfering factors such as patient age, or other medicines being taken which
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1. White Willow Bark
This herbal remedy has been used for over 2000 years in many herbal medicine cultures. People prefer to use it for relief of headaches, lower back pains and even osteoarthritis. It offers a long lasting effect although with slow release, gathered from the bark of willow trees it has anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic and analgesic properties1.
2. Chilli
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Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Naturally found in fresh fish and some vegetables (think brussel sprouts and kale), omega 3 fatty acids are excellent for cardiovascular health and in reducing the risk of hypertension, heart attacks and strokes. Research shows that even taking supplements for omega 3 will be as effective as taking ibuprofen5. These fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties meaning they can reduce pain.
6. Curcumin
Naturally found as a primary component in the herb turmeric, curcumin has potent analgesic characteristics. Studies have shown curcumin to be such a strong alternative pain relief method, that it has been effective in alleviating pain in post-operative patients6 and also burn patients.
7. Essential Oils
One of the most common reasons ibuprofen is taken is due to headaches, essential oils can act as a natural remedy for headache relief. Essential oils work at a natural chemical level, then on a sensory level via your sense of smell and lastly through the massage process when they are applied in order to relieve stress.
The top three preferred essential oils you should consider if you have a headache are roman chamomile which acts as a muscle relaxant, lavender for pain relief and clary sage which can reduce your heart rate and blood