Most of us reach for a painkiller the minute we get a slight headache, acid reflux, or a rumbling in our stomachs. While prescription medication has its benefits, it’s not always the only medication you have at your disposal for health issues. Some herbal supplements, natural remedies, and holistic treatments can help with what ails you physically and mentally at the same time.
There are alternatives to prescription medications that can give you a little help with everything from relationship issues to back pain and acid reflux. You can try a herb-infused tea for a headache, visit a physical therapist for your back pain, and choose a supplement to boost kidney strength. If this is your first time considering something other than popping a pill, here are a few things that can help you out instead.
1. Take a natural supplement.
Herbal supplements and holistic treatments may be an excellent alternative to some types of prescription medication. For example, you can reach for a herbal supplement for acid reflux or help boost kidney health. Some supplements may improve skin health as well as help you rid your bodies of toxins.
Supplements like organic milk thistle are all-natural remedies that can help with liver problems and boost antioxidants in your system. If you’re not fond of capsules, you can even find supplements in powder form that you can mix into healthy smoothies.
Always consult a health professional or your doctor before purchasing or consuming any of these products so that you’re aware of the possible side effects.
2. Visit a therapist.
Is your prescription antidepressant the only thing you have to help you with your mental health issues? While antidepressants may help you on a day-to-day basis, it’s just as important to see a therapist as well. A counselor can help you work through difficult feelings and give you a treatment plan for your issues without prescription medication.
Caring for your mental health is essential, so don’t be skeptical about the benefits of counseling for your issues. Whether you need family therapy, psychotherapy, or play therapy for children, you can find the right clinical psychologist or therapist for any needs.
Even during situations like the Covid-19 pandemic when in-person appointments aren’t possible, several places offer counseling via virtual appointments. It means that you’re not bound by your location, although it’s best to look for therapy in your general area. For example, if you’re in DC, it’s best to get therapy in DC, even if it’s teletherapy, in case you ever require in-person counseling sessions.
3. Try physical therapy.
Did you know that more than 3 million people in the US live with chronic pain? While over-the-counter prescription medication may seem like the only way to handle it, there are other options. You can try visiting a chiropractor to deal with lower back pain or use physical therapy for pain management.
Physical therapy is often a good idea because it promotes muscle recovery and improves your core strength. Over time, you learn how to live with and manage conditions from back pain to nerve damage. So, while painkillers can help ease the pain for a short period of time, physical therapy is a better way to see long term benefits.
4. Spend some time outdoors.
A little physical activity can help with almost any ailment. It’s a good idea because it not only helps you build strength and stay active, it can help with mental health issues as well as your overall happiness and wellbeing. And the best part is that you don’t have to lift weights or start a hectic cardio routine to help your system.
Exercise can be as simple as running outdoors to boost your endorphins or taking a walk to keep your heart healthy. Try some yoga in your backyard or take your dog for a walk around the neighborhood. Hiking, swimming, and cycling are some of the best options if you’re looking for fun activities with great benefits.
5. Switch up your diet.
A good diet can give you extra support while dealing with everything from kidney problems to diabetes and obesity issues. Instead of cutting out foods, add healthy foods to your diet. Ensure you have a balanced diet that includes all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that your body requires.
An excellent first step is to start with simple additions like a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a cup of green tea or a few dishes from the Ayurvedic diet. It may be a good idea to add foods to your daily meals instead of following one strict diet. Remember to consult a nutritionist before making any drastic changes to avoid dietary drawbacks or nutritional deficiencies.
