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| Both natural and synthetic aspirins decrease pain by reducing the levels of pain-producing prostaglandins, hormone-like chemicals that are manufactured in the body. Prostaglandins serve many important functions, but for various reasons the body sometimes makes too much of them. Medical researchers believe that high levels of these chemicals are a typical cause of menstrual cramps and that they play a role in both migraine headaches and various types of arthritis. |
| Feverfew |
| Although feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) contains different compounds than the other natural aspirins, it also stops inflammation and the resulting pain by reducing prostaglandin levels, according to several studies conducted in the United Statesand it often works even better than aspirin. The best way to figure out the most potent pain reliever for you is to do a little experimentingtry the different herbs discussed in this booklet to see which works best. |
| Ginger |
| Another herb that reduces pain by lowering prostaglandin levels is ginger (Zingiber officinale), which has long been used in India to treat inflammation and pain. When Indian researchers investigated their culture's ancient claims for ginger, they discovered that it did indeed relieve pain. In a study in which ginger was given to people who suffered from muscle pain, all of the participants showed at least some improvement. And best of all, no one experienced side effects, not even the people who continued to take it for more than two years. |
| The recommended dose is 500 to 1,000 milligrams a day, although doses that are double that bring faster and better relief. And ginger has an added benefit in addition to relieving pain, it also brings more blood to the injured and inflamed area. |
| Bupleurum |
| In China, physicians use bupleurum (Bupleurum falcatum), ginseng and licorice to reduce or relieve inflammation. Al three of these herbs stimulate the pituitary and adrenal glands to increase natural production of adrenal hormones such as corti- |
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