We eat for nutrition, energy, growth and survival… can we eat to relieve or back aches and pains? Yes, you can! There are some herbs which are known to ease backaches and these “painkiller” foods work similarly to analgesics (or painkiller medicines).
Here are 5 Chinese herbs that help chase away those backaches. All of which are contained in our very own Huiji Health Tonic!
1. Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a fungus, generally mistaken to be a mushroom. It is known for relieving aches, boosting endurance, enhancing stamina and building immunity. It is generally taken in the dosage of 5 to 10 grams a day. It can even be incorporated in certain recipes like soups.
2. Ginseng
Ginseng is an herb that is known for increasing stamina. It is used in some energy drinks as it is known for boosting energy. Not only that, it also helps you de-stress.
Qi is the basic fundamentals of a human body according to Chinese medicine. Ginseng expels the bad Qi and nourishes and replenishes the good Qi. It also supports the spleen and improves blood circulation. Ginseng can be eaten raw, steamed or lightly cooked to better absorb all the benefits of Ginseng. It can also be consumed in the form of powder, capsule or extract.
3. Dang Gui
Dang Gui is another Chinese herb that is used to treat back pain. It acts as a pain killer, boosts stamina, and enriches the blood. It increases blood circulation to the area in pain, flushes out substances that cause pain and thus helps relieve the pain. It also strengthens bones, tendons and joints thereby enhancing stamina.
Dang Gui is also used to treat Sciatica – a pain affecting the Sciatic nerve which is a large nerve extending from the lower back on each leg.
4. He Shou Wu
He Shou Wu is an herb that is used to treat lower back pain by promoting blood circulation. Having high cholesterol is one of the reasons for backache and He Shou Wu supports that by lowering the absorption of cholesterol..
5. Du Zhong
Eucommia bark, also known as Du Zhong, is another traditional Chinese herb where all its parts are useful especially the root and leaf. It can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, extract and powder. It strengthens the muscles, bones, joints and tendons; nourishes liver and kidney and thus helps in reducing back pain.
As always, be sure to check with your doctor before you start the consumption of these herbs if you are taking any medication.