A diagnosis of colon cancer typically means patients face chemotherapy, radiation and taking medications to help with pain, infection and side effects. Even with prescription painkillers, there can still be lingering discomfort. Some natural options can offer additional pain relief.
Herbs and Supplements
Coffee is effective for reducing pain. The caffeine in coffee elevates mood, has pain-relieving properties and can block pain receptors.
Chamomile is effective for easing gastrointestinal (GI) spasms and can soothe pain associated with cramping. Drink it as a tea or take it as a capsule.
Lavender oil is reputed to ease pain. Take it internally by applying three drops to a sugar cube.
Poppies form the base for several prescription opiods and have strong pain-relief properties. Make a tea from poppy flowers to ease pain. Check the laws of your area before buying poppy flowers, because they are illegal in some states.
Turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. It also blocks pain receptors. Studies have shown that turmeric can also inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Add turmeric to curries and other recipes or obtain it as a capsule from health food stores.
Meditation
Meditation, relaxation and visualization can be useful for some people to control pain. The process of entering a deeply relaxed state can release endorphins and boost serotonin levels, both of which can provide pain relief by blocking receptors. Some patients find visualization a useful tool for managing pain. Patients might imagine themselves as warriors fighting the pain dragon or use other imagery to reduce pain and envision shrinking tumors.
Acupuncture, Acupressure and Exercise
Acupuncture, acupressure and physical activity can provide pain relief. Exercise, in general, releases endorphins. If your health permits, walking is an effective way to stimulate natural hormones to block pain. Some people also find relief from gentle yoga. Acupuncture and acupressure work on circulation, improving blood flow and reducing pain. As an added benefit, both acupuncture and acupressure help ease nausea and vomiting, two side effects that often accompany cancer-fighting drugs.
Tags: block pain, ease pain, pain receptors, pain relief, poppy flowers, provide pain