Pain, pain go away

Q: I try to choose natural medicine as often as I can, but when I have an occasional headache, it seems simpler to take ibuprofen. Can you explain why you don’t recommend over-the-counter painkillers?

Dr. Wright: Most over the counter painkillers, including ibuprofen, belong to a category of medications known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. NSAIDs “work” by inhibiting the enzyme known as cyclooxygenase (COX), which produces pro- inflammatory local hormones known as prostaglandins. So reducing COX also eases inflammation and pain. But the problem is that inhibiting COX often also damages the lining of the stomach and increases bleeding — occasionally even leading to death by gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

However, you don’t just have to live with those occasional headaches or other pain. There are many natural pain relievers that work as well as, if not better than, NSAIDs without the added risks. Willow bark, feverfew, and boswellia are just a few of the anti- inflammatory, pain-relieving herbs you can try. And they’re available from just about any natural food store or on-line vitamin and herb retailer.