HOUSTON – Pain, inflammation and stress are all common ailments most people treat with a prescription or over-the-counter drugs, but there may be more natural ways to ease those symptoms without going to the pharmacy.
For years, David Foreman worked behind the counter of a conventional pharmacy, dispensing drugs intended to ease all kinds of health problems. Now he makes his way through the herbal sections of health food stores, where many can find relief without the side effects of prescription medication, he said.
"I learned that there was a lot of stuff in natural medicine that correlated right back to pharmacy. Thirty percent of the drugs come from plants, so the two are a lot closer than I think people realize," Foreman said.
For fighting pain, Foreman said an extract from hops called perluxan can be used as a natural replacement for ibuprofen.
"The benefit of perluxan is that it doesn't cause the gastrointestinal upset that ibuprofen will," Foreman said.
To ease inflammation, an ingredient called Celadrin can be beneficial whether used topically or orally.
"A lot of people are familiar with omega-3's or essential fatty acids -- this falls into that category," Foreman explained.
If you're looking for a natural muscle relaxer, pick products containing magnesium. Newer studies show magnesium can reduce nerve pain, support better sleep and ease depression.
"I feel like if I give people magnesium, yeah, it's going to help relax muscles if their muscles are an issue, but at the same time I'm supporting their nervous system and mental health along with that," Foreman said.
Foreman is quick to point out that just because something is natural doesn't mean it's harmless. A lot of natural products can cause problems and drug interactions, so it's important to get guidance from someone who is well-versed in alternative treatment options.