There are many natural pain killers that are strong alternatives to traditional over-the-counter, or prescription pain medications. Most of these natural options reduce inflammation, which is a common source of systemic pain. Burns, arthritis, skin disorders, headaches etc. can all be relieved using these alternative options. 
 

Tumeric

Tumeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory food with excellent pain relief properties. It contains curcumins which ease inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Turmeric helps to relieve arthritic pain, joint pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, and other chronic pain conditions. Turmeric has been shown to be a safe and effective remedy due to its ability to not only stop inflammation, but to suppress nerve related pain as well. It can be hugely helpful with those who suffer from fibromyalgia.
 

Boswellia

This herb comes from the frankincense tree and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Boswellia blocks the overproduction of cytokinetic activity in damaged tissues, reducing inflammation. It also enhances blood flow to the joints. Boswellia is helpful in relieving symptoms associated with Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ulcerative colitis, and other painful conditions. 
 

Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple stems. It reduces levels of prostaglandins, which are hormones that induce inflammation. Bromelain may benefit people with arthritis and conditions marked by musculoskeletal tension, in addition to those suffering trauma-related inflammation. This enzyme also promotes healing in muscles and connective tissues. Bromelain has been used to remove dead tissue in burn victims. Fun fact, bromelain is commonly used as a meat tenderizer! 

 Devil’s Claw

Devil’s claw is most commonly used to relieve the pain associated with arthritis. It is also helpful in alleviating the pain associated with atherosclerosis, gout, tendonitis, gastrointestinal upset, heart burn, fever, and headache. Devils claw is an herb which originated in Africa. It's botanical name, Harpagophytum, means “hook plant” in Greek.
 

Birch Leaf

Birch leaves are analgesic, antispasmodic, antifungal, and detoxifying. They reduce oxidative damage to skin, and enhance circulation. A main chemical compound found in Birch leaves is methyl salicylate, similar to salicylic acid used in aspirin. Birch leaves also promote enzymatic secretions, are a natural diuretic, and are rich in vitamin C. 
 

Wintergreen Essential Oil

The botanical name of the shrub containing wintergreen is Gaultheria Procumbens. Menthyl Salicylate and Gaultherilene are the two main components of wintergreen essential oil. Menthyl Salicylate forms an integral part of most analgesic balms or rubs. It is helpful for those suffering from rheumatism, arthritis, gout, and pain in their bones and joints  Note: you should not ingest pure wintergreen essential oil as it can be toxic in its pure form. 
 

White Willow Bark

The active ingredient in white willow is salicin, which the body converts into salicylic acid. White willow bark lowers the body’s levels of prostaglandins which are compounds that can cause aches, pain, and inflammation. Willow bark relieves pain associated with headaches, menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout. It improves blood flow and reduces swelling. Willow bark’s pain relieving potential has been recognized throughout history. Willow bark can be found in a liquid extract, powder form, or in chunks of bark to chew. 
 

Capsaicin 

Capsaicin is what makes chili peppers hot. It is thought to reduce chronic neuropathic pain by making nerves insensitive to pain messages. Capsaicin can be applied topically in the form of an ointment or cream. Just one application can reduce pain for up to 3 months. Burning or stinging is common with the initial application. Many studies have shown that capsaicin effectively reduces pain from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. 
 

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)

Gamma-linolenic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid and a powerful anti-inflammatory. It is used for conditions that affect the skin including psoriasis and eczema. It is also used for treating symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol, heart disease, nerve pain, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, and hay fever. It is found in various plant seed oils such as borage oil and evening primrose oil.

Cherries

Cherries are rich in compounds called anthocyanins, which give cherries their rich color and also dampen pain. These anthocyanins fight inflammation and inhibit pain enzymes, just like aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. Cherries are said to have the highest anti-inflammatory content of any food, making them great for remedying issues such as arthritis.
 

Aquamin

This red seaweed supplement is rich in calcium, magnesium and 74 other trace minerals. Aquamin inhibits the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It has been demonstrated to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, such as stiffness and pain, and to increase general mobility.

Arnica

Arnica is derived from a European flower, and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps with bruising, swelling, and sprains. Arnica is toxic when ingested at full strength, but it can be used as an ointment, gel or cream on unbroken skin or, when diluted, taken internally.
 

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil is an effective natural painkiller and muscle relaxant. It is especially helpful in soothing an aching back, sore muscles, and relieving a tension headache. Peppermint oil, when applied topically, can relieve pain associated with Fibromyalgia. It is also used as a natural remedy for toothaches, discomfort from bloating and gas, joint conditions, and skin irritations.