• Willow Bark

Chinese physicians have been using the herb Willow Bark (Salix alba) to relieve pain since 500BC. The aspirin we know today was originally created from salicin, the major salicylate compound in Willow Bark. Salicin is what gives the herb its antiinflammatory, fever-lowering, pain-relieving and anti-rheumatic effects. Willow Bark also contains tannins, constituents that are now thought to contribute to Willow Bark’s overall effect. In five randomized controlled trials to assess the herb’s effect on osteoarthritic conditions and lower back pain, all but one produced positive results. Willow Bark is contraindicated for people with a salicylate allergy and should not be used during pregnancy.

• Devil’s Claw

The strangely named Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumebens) also has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. As the name suggests, this plant root looks like an arthritic ‘claw’, which was how the traditional African medicine men chose it as one of the primary herbs for treating arthritic conditions. Current scientific evidence suggests that Devil’s Claw may indeed be a useful treatment for arthritic pain. Several in-depth studies have also concluded that people with back pain may benefit from taking Devil’s Claw.

• Valerian

Valerian (Valeriana offi cinalis) is not officially considered a pain-relieving herb, but since it is so often a part of combination pain formulas it should not be disregarded. Best known for its sleep-enhancing properties and for its strong smell and taste, Valerian is one of nature’s more gentle tranquilisers. It relaxes the nervous system, reducing tension, pain and spasms that result from an over-active nervous system.

Make an informed choice

Since all medicine label claims (including complementary medicines) are required to have supporting evidence these days, you can choose to take a pharmaceutical approach, a natural approach or a combination of both to help manage pain. If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, seek the advice of your healthcare professional. If you are already taking prescription medicines, it is important that you discuss complementary medicines with your healthcare professional before combining them with your current medication.

This story has been published with the permission of Herbs & Health Lifestyle Magazine - www.herbsandhealth.com.au

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Valerian is most well known for its sedative properties, and particularly for conditions of nervous unrest and stress. It is used to relieve sleeplessness, particularly when associated with nervous conditions. In addition Valerian displays anti-spasmodic and carminative properties and can also be used for the relief of spasms in the digestive system.