The following is a list — all from mother-nature. Fruits, fish and spices to nourish the body and take away pain!

1. Dark Cherries
According to a study performed at the John Hopkins Pain Treatment Center, anthocyanins – a group of bioflavonoids or plant pigments found in cherries and other dark fruits – are effective in blocking pain signals caused by inflammation.  Enjoy a serving of 20 cherries to alleviate joint aches, gastrointestinal discomfort, PMS symptoms, and other pain caused by inflammation.

2. Cold-Water Fish
There are many health benefits to gain by adding cold-water fish like herring, mackerel, tuna, salmon, and sardines to your diet.  Among them are abilities to fight chronic pain from back and neck injuries and to help heal damaged joints.  Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids in cold-water fish improve cardiovascular function and decrease inflammation around damaged cartilage, promoting healing and overall good health.

3. Turmeric
Curcumin, a natural phenol present in turmeric root, is another natural anti-inflammatory.  Add this fragrant golden spice to your list of pain-fighting foods for a boost of flavor and beautiful color.

4. Papaya
The enzyme papain found in the flesh of papaya fruit is another natural anti-inflammatory that works well in conjunction with bromelain (found in pineapple juice and stems.)  Papain is often used following surgery to reduce pain and swelling.  While papaya extract may be taken as a supplement, the fruit is also full of anti-oxidants and vitamins which support a multitude of bodily functions.  If you can find fresh papaya, enjoy it by itself or try adding it to a smoothie, salad, or salsa.

5. Peppermint
The menthol in peppermint is great for preventing muscle spasms.  For sore hands and feet, apply peppermint oil to wrists and ankles.  To ease a bad headache, rub crushed peppermint leaves on your temples or brew some peppermint tea for a muscle-relaxing treat.

If you’ve ever had arthritis, migraines, tendonitis, or other chronic conditions you know all about pain. We ask you to try the above and look into even more natural pain relievers over on Natural Living Ideas. You might be surprised by what you see!

However, as always, if you are in so much pain that these natural remedies do not seem to be working as well as you hoped, we encourage you to see your own doctor. You might even want to ask your reputable doctor their opinion about other natural remedies.