Usually when I have anxiety attack I know why but this past weekend I had one and for no real reason. I guess this is part of Generalized Anxiety Disorder that is somewhat new to me. Anxiety is NOT new to me but 'for no reason' is. With my anxiety - regardless if I know why or not - comes stiffness and pain. It's usually located in my neck, shoulders, left sciatic area. This past week nothing has really helped the pain go away other than sleeping. I've basically been going to work and then going home and laying down.
Turmeric is NOT new to me either. I always knew it was a good fighter of pain and inflammation and I consume it often in many foods and beverages. I thought it was about time for me to look into additional herbs that were helpful to combat pain.
White Willow Bark. I know I have had it in a tisane or tea but maybe it's time I kick it up a notch. It has a natural aspirin-like compound called Salicin. "Nature's Aspirin"...I like that. Side effects of 'too much' can include stomach cramping so I will certainly remember that.
This is a tiny photo I found online of the Boswellia Plant. I'm finding out that it's sourced from a resin found in the bard of the frankincense tree and can thwart reactions involved with inflammation.
When Googling Boswellia I found photos like the one above and I was wondering why it looked like rocks - now it makes sense to me - if it's from the resin of the tree. Boswellia is something that is new to me - for sure. I will be doing more research on it soon. If you've had any experiences with it please comment below.
Devil's Claw. Look how FUNKY this looks! I know I have heard it before but I really don't think I have tried it in any tisanes or teas that I know of. Traditionally it's used for rheumatoid arthritis but may also be helpful for those suffering from pain resulting from osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and back and neck troubles.
When I saw Bromelain on several websites the first thing I thought of was pineapple because I've always heard that pineapple was high in Bromelain. I know pineapple is one of those fruits that people either love or hate. Lucky for me - I love it - I just know I should eat more.
Studies have showed that Bromelian may benefit people with arthritis, musculoskeletal tension, trauma-related inflammation, and help heal muscles and connective tissues.
And, finally, ginger. Another one I am familiar with. I don't mind ginger but sometimes it can be too strong and overpowering in some tisanes and teas. I might have to start making my own blends. I also enjoy ginger in foods. Perhaps I should start using it even more. Ginger is not only good for pain and inflammation but to relieve cold-related conjestion.
Of course, I'm not a doctor and not making any claims or saying anything can eliminate diseases but this is just information I have found and find interesting. I want to document it here so I can refer back to it down the road.
If you have dealt with anxiety, chronic pain, or inflammation issues - what has helped you?
