Ibuprofen: what it is for and its natural alternatives

physical pain It is one of the situations that we are least prepared to cope with. Since ancient times, pain remedies have been, just as in the 21st century, one of the most widely used substances.

In our society anti-inflammatories and analgesics are among the most widely used drugs and substances. Among the best known is ibuprofen, a chemical substance intended to relieve mild to moderate pain.

We must not forget that it is a mistake to self-medicate. The misuse and abuse of ibuprofen and other drugs can lead to side effects among them, alterations in the stomach and intestines such as gastritis, possible ulcers, and some circulatory disorders such as increased blood pressure and others.

In this article we are going to explain how ibuprofen works (its mechanism of action) and consider natural Alternatives, such as arnica, cinnamon, turmeric, devil’s claw, black currant, ginger and some nutrients that act as anti-inflammatories and help relieve discomfort. Some of these aids are exclusively for topical use in case of muscle or joint pain, others can be used orally.

What is ibuprofen used for?

Ibuprofen is a drug used to relieve pain associated with inflammation. Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism and pain is a warning sign: something is happening somewhere in our body. That is: yesIf there is inflammation, it is normal to feel pain.

Of all the parts of the body that tend to hurt, we have more pain associated with joints and the locomotor system in general, as occurs in osteoarthritis, arthritis or low back pain, although the throat can also become inflamed and ache from having done a great job. effort to speak

Ibuprofen is among the most widely used pain relievers and anti-inflammatories. It belongs to the group of chemical substances called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and its mechanism of action is similar to that of acetylsalicylic acid (ASS) that we know as aspirin. Its action combines an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic effect.

How does ibuprofen work?

ibuprofen works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) which affects the formation of arachidonic acid, which in turn is related to the formation of prostaglandins and thromboxanes. These last substances have a “proinflammatory” action, that is, they create inflammation.

So ibuprofen interferes with chemical pathways with an anti-inflammatory effect and with it an analgesic or pain-reducing effect when the pain is of mild to moderate intensity. So far so good.

It is clear that no one wants to suffer pain. But… there is a “but” and they are its side effects.

ibuprofen side effects

Inappropriate use of ibuprofen can cause side effects.

May affect the gastrointestinal tract. The main side effects include irritation of the mucous membranes, which can cause stomach pain, gastritis, heartburn and even ulcers with or without bleeding.It can raise blood pressure. Although it can reduce fever, its use in pain and inflammation due to infections is limited and should not be used without a prescription.

Natural alternatives to ibuprofen

Unfortunately, we have become accustomed to taking medication, For example, ibuprofen for minimal pain, being able to use other more natural substances that help us. Making changes in our lifestyle can also help us.

The medical and scientific community warns us about misuse of ibuprofen. Let us therefore see alternatives and options that help us and allow us a more rational use of drugs.

The situation, the cause, the type and intensity of the pain will mark the choice of one substance or another. Obviously we take into account that the pain associated with multiple injuries from an accident is not the same as the pain we have after several hours of being in front of the computer with a bad neck posture. In this article we deal with those discomforts that depend more on us and our habits.

We have many techniques to avoid pain, first of all, and to modulate or reduce it. Lifestyle is very important, as well as personal perception of pain. Meditation is a great help to improve muscle relaxation. Exercising, which includes stretching and strength training, helps us to be more physically resistant and resilient.

We have named substances that correspond to long-standing medicinal plants for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, among which we are going to explain: arnica, cinnamon, turmeric, devil’s claw and black currant.

Many of the analgesic substances owe their action to essential oils. If “pure” essential oils are used, we must take into account respecting the doses and forms of use.

Remember: Whenever you take conventional medication with an anticoagulant effect, ask your health professional when taking any anti-inflammatory, whether it is a drug or a natural product.