Fruits and Vegetables as Organic Painkillers

There is no doubt that at some point during life as humans we will experience pain. In the world we live in pain can be reduced or eliminated with a variety of over-the-counter medication. In cases of severe pain there are just as many forms of prescriptions painkillers. These medications are a blessing when needed but the side effects may cost a person more than they realize. Some painkillers have been associated with liver damage, kidney damage and even heart damage. There are however, organic painkillers that most people do not realize are readily available at the local grocery store.

Celery:

Celery is high in vitamin C which helps to aid the immune system in keeping the body healthy. Celery also contains phalides which makes it an organic painkiller. The use of celery as a painkiller is not a new concept. It has been used as a painkiller since as far back as 30 AD. The use of celery as an organic painkiller does not seem to be used for specific pains like other types of vegetables or fruits.

Eggplant and Purple Cabbage:

Flavonoids give fruits and vegetables their distinct pigments. Both of these vegetables are high in Flavonoids which also reduces inflammation. The ability to reduce inflammation makes eggplants and purple cabbage great organic painkillers. The inflammation can be caused by chronic illnesses or from injuries. These are best prepared steamed or baked instead of boiled to prevent the lose of Flavonoids since boiling causes them to lose most of their nutrients.

Lettuce, Spinach and Turnip Greens:

Many women suffer from menstrual cramps ranging from mild to severe. Instead of reaching for over-the-counter relief try reaching for green leafy vegetables instead. The Omega-3 fatty acids in these vegetables make them an organic painkiller for menstrual cramps.

Also the Omega-3 fatty acids works as an anti-inflammatory aiding in pain reduction caused by inflammation. So for those who do not like the taste of eggplant or purple cabbage, lettuce, spinach or turnip greens will work as an alternative for organic pain relief.

Oranges, Grapefruits and Lemons:

These tasty citrus fruits contain Bioflavonoid which aid in joint collagen. The support that is given to joint collagen makes it an organic painkiller for the pain associated with arthritis. Arthritis is not the only reason a person would suffer from joint pain. Sports injuries are also one of the leading causes of joint pain and an increase in the consumption of these fruits can aid in the reduction of pain.