Black cumin oil is a real secret tip from naturopathy and can have many positive effects on your health. As part of a healthy, balanced diet, it can have anti-inflammatory and blood pressure-lowering effects. In this article, learn how black cumin oil strengthens the immune system and your health and how you can use it.

What is black cumin oil?

As the name suggests, black cumin oil is extracted from the seeds of the black cumin plant, botanically called “Nigella sativa”. Black cumin has been cultivated for thousands of years in the West Asian region (Turkey, Iraq) and is valued as a spice and medicinal plant. Found Papyrus Scrolls prove that even the ancient Egyptians called black cumin oil “the gold of the pharaohs”. A bottle of it was even found in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.

How to make black cumin oil

Two different types of oil can be obtained from black cumin: a normal edible oil and essential oil. To produce the edible oil, the seeds of the black cumin plant are first dried and then cold-pressed. This preserves the ingredients better. The essential oil is extracted through a special evaporation process. Up to 60 kilograms of black cumin seeds are needed for one litre.

Theoretically, you could also make the whole thing yourself: To do this, put about 500 grams of black cumin seeds together with one litre of olive oil in a preserving jar and leave the whole thing in a warm place for about three weeks. Then filter out the seeds again. However, the ingredients of the self-made variant cannot be compared with those of mechanically cold-pressed oil.

Black cumin oil contains important nutrients

Black cumin oil consists of 60 percent polyunsaturated fatty acids, followed by 20 to 25 percent monounsaturated fatty acids. The highest proportion is oleic acid, linoleic acid and saponins (they belong to the secondary plant substances). It also contains essential oils and essential amino acids such as L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine. These in turn are basic building blocks of the messenger substances adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine. In addition to the minerals biotin, selenium and magnesium, black cumin oil also contains various vitamins – such as provitamin A, various B vitamins, as well as vitamin C and vitamin E.

What is black cumin oil good for?

Black cumin oil is said to have innumerable health effects in the most diverse areas. In naturopathy it is used in particular for the following complaints:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Digestive problems
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Alleviation of the side effects of chemotherapy
• Skin diseases such as acne or neurodermatitis

Black cumin is also said to strengthen the immune system and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Intake, use and dosage

The uses of black cumin oil are manifold. It can be used both internally and externally. Since the oil tastes and smells very intense, it is rather difficult to integrate it into daily nutrition. Therefore, it is usually taken as a supplement and is also available in capsule form. Regarding dosage, it also recommends: “Studies have applied up to five milliliters of oil (equivalent to half a tablespoon to a tablespoon) or three grams of seeds.” However, experts say that the additional calories taken should not be ignored. For external use, for example against acne, the oil can be applied undiluted to the affected skin areas. However, if you suffer from neurodermatitis, you should dilute it with carrier oil. Argan oil, for example, is suitable for this.

Can side effects occur?

In principle, side effects rarely occur when using or taking black cumin oil. Studies have reported that occasionally itching or nausea may occur. Another study also mentions a slight drop in blood sugar levels. Only rarely have allergic skin reactions occurred. According to experts, a contact allergy cannot be ruled out in the case of local application. They also advise against taking black seed oil on an empty stomach, as it can irritate the stomach lining. Another reported side effect is increased belching.

In general, experts recommend stopping treatment with black seed oil immediately if there are signs of side effects. Pregnant women should also refrain from taking it in concentrated form to be on the safe side, as a labour-inducing effect cannot be ruled out.

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It is undeniable that aloe vera has a wonderfully cooling and truly refreshing effect on the skin. But why should you use the plant’s gel only for external application? Treat yourself to a glass of tangy, fruity aloe vera juice and get your digestion and immune system going. What freshly squeezed aloe vera juice is all about and what health effects the juice can have, we reveal in this article.

How to make the aloe vera juice

The gel of aloe vera works wonders when applied to the skin. The cooling effect and the anti-inflammatory effect have already made many sunburns heal faster. But it’s no secret that our skin is generally happy about the rich vitamins and nutrients contained in the gel. But aloe vera is not only suitable for applying to irritated skin, you can also drink juice from the fresh gel.

Meanwhile, many manufacturers sell freshly squeezed aloe vera juice even in conventional supermarkets. For the production, the leaves of aloe vera are thoroughly peeled. The greenish-yellow layer under the bark is also removed to get rid of unhealthy leaf substances. The gel is then cold pressed in mechanical processes and bottled – ready is the pure juice. However, the juices are also available as mixed juices, where aloe vera is blended with others, usually citrus juices. Aloe vera juice is rich in important nutrients, such as:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Iron
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Sodium

These health effects can have aloe vera juice

May stimulate digestion

When cold-pressing aloe vera juice from the fruit gel, it is impossible to avoid the transfer of some components from the marginal layers between the pulp and the leaf bark into the juice. Why is this important? There are many anthraquinones in the leaf rinds and the juice between the gel and the rind. These natural plant compounds have a laxative effect. Components of aloe vera have already been successfully used in preparations against constipation. But don’t worry, although some anthraquinones pass into the juice during juice production, it does not have a laxative effect. Rather, the juice is said to have a digestive effect. Sometimes the small amounts of anthraquinones seem to stimulate digestion.

It can help plump up the skin

The gel of the aloe vera plant, which is so wonderfully cooling, can soothe irritation and have an anti-inflammatory effect when applied to the skin. But can the skin also benefit when we drink tart, fruity juice? According to some small studies, yes! Researchers found in a 2020 study that skin’s protective function, elasticity and moisture content improved in volunteers and subjects who consumed 40 micrograms of aloe sterols daily over 12 weeks. Sterols belong to the group of membrane lipids. In other words, they are vegetable fats that are used to build cells. Taken orally, the sterols from aloe vera juice appear to have a positive effect on the collagen content of the skin.

Protection through antioxidants

Antioxidants are natural substances that can inhibit the harmful effects of free radicals. With the help of antioxidants, which also include vitamins, highly reactive and aggressive free oxygen compounds, which are formed as by-products of metabolic processes in our body, can be rendered harmless. Free radicals cause cell damage through oxidation. The good news is that aloe vera juice is enormously rich in antioxidant substances. First and foremost, the super substance vitamin C, which strengthens our immune system and can protect the cells of our body from oxidation. In addition, aloe vera juice also contains cell-protecting vitamin E and vitamin A. The latter is enormously important for the health of our skin cells and hair. By the way, many studies have proven that aloe vera is very effective as an anti-inflammatory agent and supports the fat metabolism of the body.

Can soothe the gums

Those who frequently suffer from gingivitis, aphthae or other inflammations of the oral mucosa can sometimes accelerate healing with aloe vera juice. The anti-inflammatory components of the fresh and cooling juice support the regeneration of the mucous membranes. The mild antibacterial effect also prevents the proliferation of bacteria that irritate weakened gums and oral mucosa. So the next time you have discomfort, feel free to take a few sips of the refreshingly tart juice.

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If your scalp suddenly itches excessively, an infestation of head lice may be the cause. To feed on our blood, the tiny parasites nest in our hair. Read this article to find out which signs indicate an infestation of head lice and how you can treat it effectively.

What are head lice?

Head lice are widespread in any country, and children between the ages of three and twelve, in particular, are often infected due to close physical contact. Outbreaks occur mainly in schools, mainly between late summer and early autumn. But they can also be found in adults who have close contact with children. Head lice are not transmitted via objects or pets such as dogs and cats.

They are small, wingless insects that are usually only 2 to 3 millimetres in size. Since head lice feed on blood, they bite our scalp and cause an unpleasant itch.

An infestation of head lice should generally not be taken as a sign of poor hygiene. The nits nest in both dirty and clean hair. The length of the hair is also irrelevant and does not influence on the risk of infection. However, head lice are more difficult to detect in thick, curly hair.

Signs of head lice

The following symptoms show how an infestation with head lice manifests itself:

• Severe itching, which increases especially at night. This is because head lice are nocturnal.
• The feeling that something is moving in the hair.
• Bites and puncture marks on the scalp.
• The eggs – also called nits – of head lice stick firmly to the scalp, usually in warmer places like behind the ears or on the back of the neck. The nits are easily confused with dandruff. Unlike dandruff, however, they are not so easy to remove from the hair.

Head lice treatment

Simply washing your hair is not enough to remove lice from your head. To effectively remove the lice from the hair, you should get a special lice comb, which is available in pharmacies or drugstores. Wet the hair and carefully comb through each section from the roots to the tips. After each strand, you should wipe the comb with a clean kitchen towel. When you have combed through the entire head, you should rinse the comb thoroughly under hot water.

In addition to the treatment with the lice comb, you should apply a special lice remedy with dimethicone, a silicone oil. This agent coats the lice and their eggs with a thick layer of oil and suffocates them. Dimethicone contains no poison – it is used in many cosmetic products and food production. You should repeat the treatment after about 7 to 10 days, as some lice may survive the first treatment.

By the way: The use of insecticides is not recommended, as the aphids have built up resistance to the active substances in the meantime.

Combating head lice: What else you should consider

In addition to direct treatment of the infested scalp, you should also take other accompanying measures:

• Family members should also be thoroughly checked for head lice and treated if necessary.
• Wash used bed linen and worn clothing such as pyjamas and towels at least 60 degrees.
• Clothing as well as items such as cuddly toys that cannot be washed hot should be kept in a sealed plastic bag for three days. Alternatively, you can put them in the freezer for two days.
• Clean used brushes and hair clips with hot water and soap and do not use them for a few days.
• Upholstered furniture such as sofas and armchairs should be thoroughly vacuumed.

Head lice prevention: The best tips

To prevent the transmission of head lice, you should avoid close body contact as much as possible. Since lice cannot jump or fly, they travel from one head of hair to the next. Sharing brushes and headgear can also transmit lice. Since especially children are affected by a lice infestation and therefore outbreaks occur again and again in day-care centres and schools, a regular check of the head of hair with a lice comb can also be useful as a preventive measure.

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Vitamin B is a group of water-soluble vitamins that have been shown to have a several important health benefits. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B10, B11 and B12 are generally grouped under the name of group B vitamins. We show you the functions of B vitamins and which foods contain the most vitamin B.

How vitamin B helps us

B vitamins are one of the most important vitamin groups for humans. Our body needs vitamin B for the brain, the nervous system and the muscles, among other things, but also many different metabolic processes as well as strong skin and plump hair. Most B vitamins can be covered by food, e.g. whole grain products. Only vegetarians and vegans need to pay attention to the supply of vitamin B12 (cobalamin), even though vitamin B12 and vitamin B3 can be stored in the body. The other B vitamins are excreted by the body when the daily dose is exceeded.

The best foods with vitamin B

In your daily diet, make sure you have an adequate intake of vitamin B to meet your daily needs. Therefore, reach for these foods more often to meet your needs!

Fruits and vegetables

• Bananas
• Avocado
• Spinach
• Peas and lentils
• Kale
• Broccoli

Whole grains, nuts and seeds

• Wheat germ
• Whole grain bread
• Sunflower seeds
• Sesame seeds

Meat and fish

• Mackerel
• Oysters
• Veal
• Beef
• Chicken
• Herring

1. Oysters
They are somewhat more expensive, but with around 15 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams, they are an absolute supplier of vital nutrients. With 7 milligrams of iron, 100 grams of mussels cover half of the recommended daily requirement.

2. Lamb’s lettuce
It is harvested from October to April and is a surprising vitamin bomb: Lamb’s lettuce contains 145 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams as well as 380 micrograms of vitamin B3, 250 micrograms of B5 and 200 micrograms of B6.

Tip: Consume quickly after purchase, otherwise precious vitamins are lost.

3. Chicken
It is low in fat, high in protein and contains about 0.1 milligrams of vitamin B1, 0.2 milligrams of vitamin B2 and 0.3 milligrams of vitamin B6. With 23 grams of protein per 100 grams, it saturates for a long time and contributes to muscle maintenance.

4. Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are very rich in vitamin B, as 100 grams contain 0.79 milligrams of vitamin B6, 0.97 micrograms of folic acid, 0.25 milligrams of vitamin B2 and 1.41 milligrams of vitamin B5. They are very rich in fiber, but also very high in calories due to their high fat content.

5. Kale
It provides about 1000 micrograms of vitamin B5 and 47 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams. At the same time, kale has 4.3 grams of protein per 100 grams, which makes it not only a vitamin bomb but also one of the most protein-rich cabbages. It is in season from November to February and is often prepared with Mettenden and Kasseler during the Christmas season.

6. Turkey breast
It provides 11.3 mg of vitamin B3 per 100 grams and is also low in fat. Turkey breast also provides 0.11 mg of vitamin B2 and 0.59 mg of vitamin B5 per 100 grams.

7. Endive salad
It’s delicious, especially in winter, and with 109 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams, it’s a real homocysteine eater. When the amino acid is present in elevated concentrations in the body, serious illnesses can result. Elevated homocysteine levels are caused by folic acid and vitamin B-12 deficiency, excessive coffee consumption, obesity, nicotine, lack of exercise and excessive alcohol consumption.

8. Mackerel
In 100 grams of fatty sea fish, there are 0.31 milligrams of vitamin B6, 0.43 milligrams of vitamin B2 and 7.3 micrograms of vitamin B12. But also 0.3 to 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, which keep the cardiovascular system going and weaken chronic inflammation, as well as keep the brain fit.

9. Veal
It is very lean and contains 0.56 milligrams of vitamin B6 per 100 grams, as well as 0.26 milligrams of vitamin B2. Tip: White to pale pink meat is usually of inferior quality. This is because the calves are fed milk and straw instead of hay and grass.

10. Sunflower seeds
Small seeds, big power – they are bursting with vitamin B6: 100 grams contain 1.27 milligrams. They consist of over 90 percent healthy unsaturated fatty acids and contain plenty of the fat-soluble vitamins A and E.

11. Lentils
The protein-rich legumes provide a proud 0.58 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 0.45 milligrams of vitamin B1. 100 grams consist of almost a quarter of protein, which makes them particularly suitable for a vegetarian and vegan diet.

12. Beef
Even a small steak covers the daily requirement with 5 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. Cattle process the mineral cobalt in their rumen into cobalamin (vitamin B12). In addition, 100 grams of lean beef fillet contain 2.3 milligrams of iron and 3.2 milligrams of zinc.

13. Bananas
They contain about 0.36 milligrams of vitamin B6 per 100 grams. Depending on the degree of ripeness, it has a low or high sugar content, which provides energy quickly, especially during sports. The starch of the banana also satiates.

14. Soft cheese
Depending on the variety, it is an excellent source of B12 with 3 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. It also contains a lot of calcium, which is incorporated into the bones with the help of vitamin D. This stabilizes the bones and protects against osteoporosis. This stabilizes the bones, which protects against osteoporosis.

15. Spinach
With 145 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams, it makes you really fit and also contains a lot of vitamin C and beta-carotene. You can also use spinach to make healthy shakes.

16. Herring
This fatty fish provides vital omega-3 fatty acids as well as 8.5 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams, 5 micrograms of vitamin B5 and 0.45 milligrams of vitamin B6. Herring also contains iodine and selenium, which support thyroid function.

17. Avocado
Do not be afraid of the fruit with the highest fat content. It contains 0.27 milligrams of vitamin B6 per 100 grams. And its valuable monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids help lower cholesterol.

18. Brussels sprouts
The green florets should be cooked in as little salted water as possible so as not to destroy their valuable folic acid content of 182 micrograms per 100 grams. In addition, Brussels sprouts contain 1.4 milligrams of iron per 100 grams, more than twice as much as 100 grams of chicken breast.

19. Mussels
Not only are they super tasty, but they also contain 14 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. They also contain 4.2 grams of iron, which we need for optimal blood formation.

20. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a highly underrated vegetable. Besides 125 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams, it contains a lot of vitamin C and minerals. If it has brown spots, it has been stored incorrectly and has already lost vitamins as a result. To make it last longer, simply remove the leaves and place them in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. There it will stay fresh for several days.

21. Liver
With 70 to 80 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams, it is the best B12 supplier of all. It also contains vitamin B5, which is very important for fat metabolism. People with iron deficiency should also regularly turn to the liver (pork), as it contains up to 15 milligrams of iron per 100 grams.

22. Wheat germ
They provide 304 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams – a record! At the same time, by eating sprouts we take in 0.5 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 2 milligrams of vitamin B1, which support the effect of folic acid. Other sprouts, such as bean sprouts, are also a good source of folic acid.

23. Salmon
Salmon is particularly rich in vitamin B3. 100 grams of fish contains 7990 micrograms, which is a good half of the recommended daily intake. In addition, salmon contains the B vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12. A real vitamin B package for health!

24. Potatoes
Potatoes are not only delicious and versatile but are also full of vitamins in addition to valuable minerals and trace elements. In addition to vitamin C, the tuber contains the B vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6. Particularly many nutrients are retained when the potato is prepared as jacket potatoes, fried potatoes or in the oven.

25. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are low in calories due to their high water content. Nevertheless, they are rich in vitamins and nutrients. In them, there is especially a lot of vitamin B3 (5200 micrograms per 100 grams), but also a lot of vitamin B5. Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 are present in mushrooms in smaller quantities. If they are prepared gently, many of the vitamins are preserved!

How much vitamin B do I need?

There are a total of eight different B vitamins: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid) and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). They all belong to the group of water-soluble vitamins, which is why the body cannot store them – except for vitamin B2 and vitamin B12 – and excretes them in the urine. Therefore, it is important to cover the daily requirement with food or, if necessary, with food supplements.

The daily requirement for women and men is as follows:

Recommended daily requirement of vitamin B

Vitamin B	Women	Men
B1	1,0 µg	1,1 – 1,3 µg
B2	1,0 – 1,1 mg	1,3 – 1,4 mg
B3	11- 13 mg	14 – 16 mg
B5	6 mg	6 mg
B6	1,4 – 1,6 mg	1,2 mg
B7	30 – 60 µg	30 – 60 µg
B9	300 µg	300 µg
B12	4,0 µg	4,0 µg

Vitamin B1 (thiamine)

Vitamin B1 is an important component in the metabolisation of carbohydrates and has a high influence on the nervous system. For example, it determines how well the muscles react to impulses.

Vitamin B1 deficiency:

Symptoms of a vitamin B1 deficiency can include indigestion and lack of appetite. Tiredness and depressive moods are also indications of an undersupply of vitamin B1.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

Vitamin B2 ensures that the brain is supplied with glucose. It also maintains the respiratory system and protects the red blood cells.

Vitamin B2 deficiency:

A deficiency manifests itself, among other things, in torn corners of the mouth, as well as inflammation of the oral mucosa and inflammatory skin changes. A vitamin B2 deficiency can promote cataracts.

Vitamin B3 (niacin)

Vitamin B3 is involved in numerous metabolic processes in the body, e.g. the production of fatty acids.

Vitamin B3 deficiency:

A deficiency is very rare in our latitudes. However, should it occur, a deficiency manifests itself in loss of appetite and general weakness. A permanent undersupply of niacin can trigger the disease pellagra, which can manifest itself in dermatitis, diarrhoea and dementia.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

Vitamin B helps the body convert food into usable energy. It is involved in producing important substances such as long-chain fatty acid, provitamin D, bile acid, cholesterol and certain amino acids. Pantothenic acid has proved particularly useful in skin and hair care. Together with vitamin B7, it ensures full hair and clearer skin.

Vitamin B5 deficiency:

A deficiency only occurs in cases of severe malnutrition and alcohol abuse. It manifests itself as a painful burning and tingling sensation in the feet.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine helps in the production of serotonin, dopamine, histamine and haemoglobin, the pigment of red blood cells. It also supports fat metabolism and regulates the immune system. Vitamin B6 is also said to be effective for morning sickness and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Vitamin B6 deficiency:

Symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency include acne, inflamed corners of the mouth, fatigue and sensitivity to light.

Vitamin B7 (biotin)

Vitamin B7 is mainly known for its supportive effect on hair growth. It also strengthens finger and toenails, supports energy metabolism, normalises cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels and prevents gestational diabetes.

Vitamin B7 deficiency:

Classic symptoms of a biotin deficiency are hair loss, scaly, red skin rash, cracked corners of the mouth, depression, nausea, weakness and listlessness.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid)

Vitamin B9 affects cell division in the bone marrow and helps in the formation of new blood cells. Folic acid is especially recommended for pregnant women, as a deficiency can lead to malformations of the central nervous system such as open back (spina bifida) in the unborn child.

Vitamin B9 deficiency:

Since the vitamin can only be stored in small amounts by the body, a deficiency is quite common. In pregnant women, a folic acid deficiency can favour premature births. A deficiency can also influence cardiovascular diseases.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)

Vitamin B12 – also known as cobalamin – is involved in the development of nerve cells in the spinal cord. It affects many reactions in protein and nucleic acid metabolism and supports the absorption of folic acid into the red blood cells.

Vitamin B12 deficiency:

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include cell division disorders in the skin and mucous membranes, muscle weakness, fatigue, poor concentration and memory, headaches, migraines, depression, hair loss, allergies and degeneration of the optic nerve. The doctor can recognise a B12 deficiency from your blood values, e.g. from larger amounts of the amino acid homocysteine.

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Painkillers like ibuprofen are a quick and easy solution. However, they are not healthy for your body in the long run. We show you proven herbal home remedies that can relieve your pain without any side effects. Here are the best natural painkillers.

Medicines and their side effects

Nowadays, medicines are quickly and easily available at the pharmacy, even over the counter, without proper communication of the correct dose or duration of treatment. Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used medicines. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and reduce inflammation. It is sometimes taken for headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, or menstrual cramps. However, as with other medicines, taking ibuprofen can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation and put a strain on your health. Ibuprofen may also cause dizziness or drowsiness. If the symptoms are not too severe, you should therefore resort to herbal, natural remedies.

Herbal painkillers and their effect

It does not always have to be conventional painkillers that help us with severe pain. Remedies from nature have been around since time immemorial, a healing effect is also confirmed and usually also solves the problem. People use them not only because they are natural, but also because they work naturally and do not burden the body with side effects. As a chronically ill person, you should of course constantly consult your doctor. However, the additional intake of natural painkillers can usefully complement therapy and alleviate your complaints.

Important: As long as the complaints remain within limits, natural remedies help to relieve our pain. If there is no significant improvement after taking the home remedies, you should ask a doctor for advice.

Top 8 Natural Painkillers: The Best Alternatives to Ibuprofen

1. Arnica against pain

Arnica is a now widespread and commonly used plant, known especially for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly helpful for muscle aches and tears, bumps, stomach aches, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation.

You should only use arnica externally and not ingest it. To use, pour a cup of warm water over a teaspoon of arnica. Then apply the active ingredient to the affected areas with a clean cloth.

2. Ginger against pain

Many people know that ginger is healthy and strengthens the immune system – but the fact that it can also be taken for pain is certainly new to some. Besides strengthening the immune system, ginger has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving function, similar to the active ingredients of arnica.

Ginger can be used externally, especially for sprains, arthritis, general inflammation and carpal tunnel syndrome. To do this, cut off a piece of ginger, pour warm water over it and let it steep for about five minutes. Then dab it on the affected area with a cloth and the natural treatment is ready.

If you suffer from nausea, ginger can also help. Eat a small piece of ginger to stimulate your appetite and keep your gastrointestinal tract going.

3. Turmeric against pain

The natural active ingredient turmeric is anti-inflammatory and keeps our joints healthy. Therefore, the medicinal plant has a pain-relieving effect on arthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Simply refine your dishes with turmeric, which goes particularly well with oriental dishes such as curry. Golden milk is particularly popular and beneficial to health. A drink that consists of plant milk, turmeric, ginger and a few other ingredients. In Ayurvedic teachings, Golden Milk has been considered healing, stimulating and cleansing drink for centuries. Turmeric milk relieves discomfort in the joints, supports digestion and strengthens the immune system. If you don’t like turmeric in a dish or as milk, you can also take the active ingredient in highly concentrated capsule or powder form.

4. Liquorice against pain

Before you start taking liquorice, you should first talk to your doctor about it. If he sees no objections to the treatment with liquorice, you can easily buy liquorice as a tablet, cream or capsule in pharmacies or health food shops and take it instead of conventional painkillers. However, the active ingredient of the medicinal plant should be avoided in cases of high blood pressure, potassium deficiency, type II diabetes, hepatitis and during pregnancy. The reason: the substance increases blood pressure, cortisol levels and the permeability of the placenta so that the healthy development of the hormone glands and the brain of the unborn child is disturbed.

5. Cayenne pepper for pain

The natural plant cayenne pepper is not only a treat for the taste buds but also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Nevertheless, you should bear in mind that cayenne pepper is hot and very tasty, not everyone can tolerate the spiciness. Avoid contact with mucous membranes and spare your eyes. If you don’t want to use it as a powder, you can buy it as an ointment, cream or oil essence in health food stores.

If you prefer the powder for treatment, pour 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper over hot water and drink small sips throughout the day. If you have decided to use the ointment, apply it carefully to the affected area. Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards or use gloves from the beginning. Otherwise, unpleasant side effects such as a strong burning sensation may occur.

6. Willow bark against pain

Willow bark has an analgesic effect. It is often used as a natural painkiller for headaches, muscular and menstrual complaints. However, willow bark, e.g. as a tea, also helps with fever and with arthrosis and arthritis. If you are allergic to the drug aspirin, we advise you against treatment with willow bark, because both willow bark and aspirin contain salicylic acid, to which some people are allergic.

7. Peppermint oil against pain

Peppermint oil is also a real all-rounder among natural painkillers. It not only helps with digestive complaints and irritable bowel syndrome but also with tension headaches and muscle pain. The reason for this is probably the ingredients contained in the oil, which stimulate the cold receptors of the skin and make the pain fibres less sensitive. If you want to take advantage of this effect, massage the diluted oil directly onto the painful area.

8. Onions against pain

Onions are not only known for their flavourful seasoning, but also as a well-known household remedy for sore throats, earaches and insect bites. The onion acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and has an antibacterial, analgesic and germicidal effect. For sore throats or coughs, you can therefore mix onion juice with honey and take it regularly.

You can also use onions for a painful middle ear infection. Cut an onion into small pieces and wrap it in a cloth handkerchief. Then place the onion bag on your ear. The onion relieves the discomfort and has a decongestant effect.

Food as a natural painkiller

Remedies such as arnica, turmeric and ginger not only serve us as effective natural painkillers. Foods can also alleviate inflammation. Especially plant-based omega-3 sources rebalance the ratio of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, eat walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, flaxseeds and dark green leafy vegetables regularly, as well as vegetable oils such as olive and linseed oil. Fatty fish can also be on the menu once a week, e.g. salmon, sardines and trout. Try it out!

You should avoid white flour products as much as possible because of the large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Animal products should only be eaten in moderation, as the purines they contain can attack your joints and lead to gout.

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