I imagine that by now, almost all of us have read the horrors of over-the-counter (OTC) pain killers. When used appropriately and sparingly, OTC painkillers are safe and effective for managing pain, but when it comes to managing severe/chronic pain OTC pain-killers pose serious health when used continually or at large doses. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like Advil/Ibuprofen can damage the stomach and GI tract causing side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. In severe cases they can lead to peptic ulcers and damage the liver and kidneys. Other painkillers like Acetaminophen /Tylenol can accumulate to toxic levels in the liver causing severe liver damage while also damaging blood platelets and certain types of white blood cells.
As a result, a call for natural options for managing pain has been made loud and clear. Modalities like massage, acupuncture, chiropractic and physical therapy are becoming more mainstream and utilized. Each of these modalities is a safe and effective option when facilitated by a licensed practitioner, but participating in weekly or monthly appointments is only half the battle. Alternative modalities like these take time to facilitate lasting pain relief, so learning to manage pain at home is essential.
At Stream Point Wellness, we like our patients to be as educated as possible so they can make conscious and healthy decisions that can maximize their health and enhance their overall life experience. So, we thought this blog would be a good opportunity to share some of the natural creams and ointments we use and recommend for safe management of chronic pain. All of these products can be purchased by the general public, but be sure to check with one of us so we can ensure you’re purchasing from a quality supplier.
Po Sum On
Po Sum On is a topical Chinese oil used for sore, stiff, tight, and inflexible muscles (strains). This oil penetrates deep into the muscles thereby improving circulation and warming the muscles to alleviate muscular pain. Additionally, it’s great to use before exercise to warm up the muscles and prepare them for stretching and movement. Additional benefits include alleviating coughs and colds when rubbed on the chest, and soothing mild skin irritations caused by bug bites and minor burns.
Zheng Gu Shi
Zheng Gu Shi is another Chinese liquid used topically for pain relief. Literally, Zheng Gu Shi means “bone setting solution”, which is why it’s commonly used more for damaged bones and joints (sprains). Its primary uses are for enhancing circulation and decreasing inflammation to promote healing – combined those to actions produce pain relief. As an added benefit, it’s beneficial to apply this to small bruises to heal quicker and reduce their appearance.
White Flower
White Flower Analgesic Balm is a unique combination of essential oils derived from menthol, camphor, eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint which can temporarily alleviate the minor aches and pains of muscles and joints in association with arthritis, simple backache and strains. It can also be applied topically to the forehead and temples to relieve headaches, or to the nasal areas to relieve nasal congestion.
So how to decide between these 3 ointments? Well, they are all generally good for aches and pains, so if you’re just looking for something generic, any of these three will work just fine. For me personally I do the following:
1. Po Sum On: pre-post workout muscular strain, cough/cold (think vaporub)
2. Zheng Gu Shi: arthritis and joint injuries
3. White Flower: any chronic pain with headache and/or nasal congestion
Any questions don’t hesitate to ask your friends at Stream Point Wellness! Be Well!
– Andrea
