When pain strikes, most people reach for acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without a second thought. After all, they’re the most mainstream options. But what if these medications are doing more harm than good?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol and other brands) and NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox) can stress the liver, disrupt the microbiome, impede detoxification, and inflame drainage pathways. Long-term use is linked to an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, heart attacks, and strokes. These drugs also deplete glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant. Even more concerning? They can actually slow down healing by interfering with the body’s natural inflammation cascade—sometimes leading to even more inflammation once you stop taking them.

The good news? Your body is designed to heal with the right support, and there are countless natural options to relieve pain effectively—without the risks. Let’s dive in!

It’s important to distinguish between acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is temporary, while chronic pain often has deeper underlying causes—like parasites, bacteria, liver congestion, or even dental issues like root canals. The suggestions here support both acute relief and chronic healing, but true resolution comes from addressing the root cause. If pain is chronic, it’s your body signaling the need for deeper investigation.

Here are some of my favorite naturopathic remedies for pain relief:

Herbal Remedies

Turmeric & Curcumin – A powerful anti-inflammatory that helps with joint pain, muscle soreness, and even headaches. Best absorbed with black pepper and healthy fats.
Ginger Root – Works similarly to ibuprofen, reducing inflammation and easing nausea-related pain. 
White Willow Bark – Known as "nature’s aspirin," it contains salicin, which helps with headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle pain.

Wild Lettuce - known as “natural morphine”, useful for treating insomnia, anxiety, and pain.

Boswellia (Frankincense) – Fantastic for chronic inflammation, especially joint and autoimmune-related pain.

Meadowsweet - Contains natural salicylic acid, which relieves pain. Gentle on the stomach.
Clove – Great for dental pain and sore throats; can be used as an essential oil or tea.

Crampbark - Wonderful combined with ginger to ease menstrual cramps. Take as a tincture frequently throughout the day as needed.

CBD & Hemp Oil – Natural pain relief for inflammation, migraines, and nerve-related pain.

Valerian - Great for muscle spasms and to help with sleep.

Mineral Support

Magnesium – Helps with muscle cramps, headaches, and nerve pain. Magnesium glycinate is great for relaxation, while topical magnesium or Epsom salt baths work well topically.

Sodium and Potassium - these minerals are the keys to the cells and help with cramping and headaches. I like Relyte.
Vitamin D + K2 – Helps with chronic pain and inflammation, especially for those deficient.

Topical Therapies

Castor Oil Packs – Reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and relieves pain, especially for menstrual cramps and digestive discomfort. Learn how to do a castor oil pack here.

Coffee Enemas - Reduces pain in the body. Learn more about all of the benefits here.
Essential Oils (Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Copaiba, Panaway) – Applied topically or diffused for headaches, muscle pain, and stress relief.
Acupuncture & Cupping – Great for chronic pain and tension relief.
Red Light Therapy - I use JOOV and also Kineon.

Chiropractic Adjustment - for chronic muscular/skeletal pain and headaches especially

Lifewave Patches - topical patches that use light therapy to stimulate stem cells and promote healing

Homeopathic Remedies

Arnica – Great for bruises, muscle pain, and recovery from injury. This is a top homeopathic remedy for pain, so it’s good to have different potencies on hand. I recommend:

• 9C for physical pain
• 30 C for physical pain with an emotional component
• 200C for intense, acute pain
  
  

Belladonna Homeopathic - Used in ointments that are applied to the skin for joint pain, pain along the sciatic nerve, and general nerve pain.

Homeopathic Hypericum – Works well for nerve pain and injuries.

Step Into Your Rightful Role as Healer of Your Home

This post offers a glimpse into what we teach in Fiercely Empowered Mama (FEM), a year-long, high-touch program designed to equip you with the principles of naturopathy and empower you to confidently become the healer in your home. This transformative experience is truly life-changing, giving you the tools and confidence to create lasting health for your family. 

What’s Included in FEM

• Lifetime access to 15 modules, 80+ lessons, and yearly updates.
• 80+ natural healing protocols in the Vault.
• 12 months of coaching, community, and support.
• FEMbabes fertility & postpartum care program.
• Real Food & Remedy Vault + monthly tutorials.
• Weekly live Q&A sessions, Care Clinics, and Ask Me Whatever Wednesdays.
• Exclusive access to Dr. Tonya & TeamTonya support.
• Plus SO MUCH MORE

Doors only open once a year for this exclusive program. Get on the waitlist here!

Note: As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn on qualifying purchases from links in this post.