Which Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicines Are Effective For Pain Relief?

Herbal medicine, which employs the healing properties of plants, has been utilised for millennia in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat a wide range of health issues, including acute or chronic pain. Depending on which herbs are being utilised to achieve the intended result, herbs can operate in a variety of ways. Aspirin, which is derived from White Willow bark, is one of several conventional medicines and over-the-counter pain relievers that we use today. This is because herbal treatments naturally work well for our bodies, making them a common and risk-free option for doctors to recommend to their patients.

So exactly how does TCM use these Chinese herbal remedies? Unlike Western medicine, which exclusively focuses on pain relief, these operate by addressing the underlying source of discomfort. Herbal medicine is frequently used in conjunction with complementary TCM therapies including acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, moxibustion, and tai chi to achieve the greatest outcomes. 

Here's a deep dive into Chinese herbs as an alternative medicine for pain relief that practitioners administer to treat their patients in Northern Beaches.

Chinese herbs that work best for reducing pain

Xiang Ru

To maximise the benefits of both herbs, it is typically recommended to combine Ru Xiang, or Frankincense Resin, with Myrrh Resin. The combination of these two offers a long-term remedy for chronic pain, menstrual cramps, muscular and joint discomfort, and pains. This herb is also available and useful by itself. It can be found in body lotions, essential oils, and soaps. Analgesic and anti-arthritic effects are seen in Ru Xiang.

Yan Hu Suo

Chinese martial artists have utilised Yan Hu Suo Corydalis Root, also known as Yan Hu Suo, for ages to soothe the pain. It was discovered in the grasslands of Zhejiang, and acupuncturists advise using it to improve circulation and treat pain points. Recent studies have revealed that the DHCB component in this herb is what lowers inflammation and neural pain.

Jiang Huang

It belongs to the ginger family and is also known as turmeric. The ginger plant has several health advantages. It is most likely used by people as a spice in the kitchen for numerous meals. This herb includes curcuminoids, a compound that relieves joint and digestive discomfort. If we use it in food, we should be aware that curcumin levels are really low, and the best method to maximise them is to combine them with black pepper. Chinese herbal medicine has been using this potent yellow powder for 4,000 years.

Chuan Xiong

The Chuan Xiong Szechuan lovage root, as it is sometimes known, is primarily used to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation, which benefits ladies experiencing menstrual cramps. It is a blooming plant related to the carrot, parsley, and dill families that have been grown for generations in China and Korea. Szechuan lovage root relieves urinary tract-related bodily aches and edema. You can use it as a tincture or add it to your salad, but the recommended dosage is no more than nine grammes.

Ge Gen

This fast-growing vine, also known as kudzu root, is used to relax the muscles in the shoulders, neck, and upper back. This plant, which is typically given for "wei," has anti-inflammatory and nervine properties. Neck stiffness, migraines, and chest pain are symptoms of a mild condition called "wei" that develops beneath the skin of your body. You should use it with caution if you have hypotension.

Gan Cao

Abdominal pain has long been treated in Asian civilizations with Gan Cao, often known as licorice root. The helicobacter that causes ulcers and gastrointestinal irritation is killed by licorice flavonoids. This plant contains glycyrrhizin, an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compound that heals respiratory problems and lowers inflammation. It is typically used with other Chinese medicines to improve our bodies' digestion.

Rou Gui

Rou Gui, sometimes known as cinnamon, is a plant that is utilised in many delicious cuisines. It is a spice that is used to flavour both baked items and beverages. Magnesium, iron, fibre, and calcium are all included in cinnamon, which also has antibacterial properties. Its antioxidant property reduces pain and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis patients can also benefit from Rou Gui's assistance in reducing joint and muscular discomfort.

Xiao Bai Ju

The primary function of feverfew is to control severe migraines and headaches. Additionally, it relieves the concomitant symptoms including nausea and vertigo. It is advised for menstrual irregularities, menstrual cramps, and signs of menopause. Feverfew has analgesic and pain-relieving qualities that also have natural anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing effects. Although you may buy it as a nutritional supplement in the form of tablets, it is always preferable to make tea from a fresh plant.

Since ancient times, TCM has employed herbal medicine to treat pain instead of prescription medications and over-the-counter painkillers, which frequently have unfavourable long-term side effects, most notably dependence and tolerance development. Thankfully, herbal remedies used in TCM have no harmful side effects and are not addictive. The list of advantages of herbs includes relief from back pain, musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, menstrual pain, abdominal pain, and more.