There is a reason that something irritating is called a "pain in the neck!" Neck pain can make daily tasks irritating at least and impossible at most. Natural remedies for neck pain include herbs, supplements, and myofascial release exercises.
Causes of Neck Pain
Sometimes you know what is causing your neck pain. Other times it strikes out of the blue, or you have had it for so long that you forgot what the initial cause was. Obviously, if the root cause of the neck pain can be determined, it is best to eliminate the cause.
Neck pain can be caused by injury or overuse. It can also be caused by poor posture or scoliosis or by a chronic health problem like arthritis or muscle problems. It can be caused by tension.
Modern use of laptops, frequent texting and ever some exercise programs put undue stress or positioning on the neck.
It is not uncommon for neck pain to radiate to other areas of the body. Headaches, jaw pain, back and shoulder pain can be secondary complications of neck pain.
Natural Solutions for Neck Pain
Myofascial Release Stretches
Myofascial Release stretches are one of the most effective ways to bring relief to neck pain and restore motion. Myofascial Release is a hands-on technique that involves applying light sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue.
These Earth Clinic videos featuring Erica Reid, a Myofascial Release Therapist from Los Angeles, will help you get started at home.
Herbs
Turmeric
Turmeric is a popular natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Turmeric can be taken in capsule form (typically 2-4 twice a day), or a teaspoon of turmeric root powder can be added to a glass of milk (dairy or alternative) and consumed twice a day.
Mullein
All parts of the mullein plant are gentle and useful for healing. The root of the plant is especially helpful for skeletal problems. Mullein root helps the body to produce more synovial fluid, making the joints move more easily and reducing stress and pain on the vertebrae in the neck. Mullein root isn't always easy to find. Mullein leaf tea, however, is usually readily available. Mullein leaf also helps with skeletal problems and pain relief.
St John's Wort
St. John's Wort is commonly used for pain. If you have nerve pain associated with your neck pain, St. John's Wort would be particularly useful. Because St. John's Wort is helpful for depression and anxiety symptoms, if you are experiencing neck pain due to stress, St. John's Wort may be the perfect remedy for you.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is a cooling oil with anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used neat (undiluted) along the spine on the neck for pain relief. Do be careful not to get the oil into your eyes. If you find the oil too strong, dilute it in some coconut oil before applying to your neck.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is a relaxing and soothing oil. It can be used neat on the spine and muscles in the neck.
You can combine lavender and peppermint essential oil to get the benefits of both.
Home Remedies
Apple Cider Vinegar
Raw and organic apple cider vinegar is commonly used for pain and strains. It can be applied topically to the areas of pain. It can also be taken internally as a daily tonic. 1 tablespoon is added to a glass of water. This tonic can be taken once or twice a day.
Lime Juice and Baking Soda
Earth Clinic's Ted suggests lime juice and baking soda to help alkalize the body. Because the body feels pain more acutely when it is acidic, alkalizing the body helps with pain. Add 2 Tablespoons of lime juice to a glass. Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The solution will fizz. Then add 8-12 ounces of water. This tonic is quite pleasant to take.
Hot/Cold Therapy
Alternating warm and cool applications to the neck can relieve pain. Start with a cool cloth and apply it to the neck for 30 seconds. Then apply a warm cloth for 30 seconds. Continue to switch the cloths for 7 changes, beginning and ending with cool. It helps to have 2 cloths and 2 bowls of water, one warm and one cool. It is also helpful to have some else change the cloths for you, but it is something that you can do for yourself if need be.
Castor Oil
Castor oil, used topically, helps with pain. Gently massage castor oil into the pained areas of your neck. Do used old bed sheets and clothing with this remedy as castor oil can stain clothes.
Supplements
Magnesium
Magnesium is necessary for your muscles. It also helps your body to relax. Magnesium deficiency is common. Taking a magnesium supplement can help to relieve your neck pain. You can also use topical magnesium directly on your neck. Magnesium oil is sprayed onto the neck and will absorb into the neck. If you find that it itches or stings, you can rinse it off after 20 minutes. By that time, you body will have absorbed plenty of magnesium.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that derived from pineapple. It also effective for pain relief and to reduce inflammation. Many report that it works as well as an over the counter anti-inflammatory.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is important for collagen production and your skeletal system needs that! Vitamin C also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
B Complex
A deficiency in b vitamins can make stress or anxiety problems worse. If your neck pain is related to stress and tension, a b complex supplement may be part of the solution to your problem.
Choosing one or more of the above herbs, remedies or supplements (depending on your preference, availability and your own needs assessment) can help with the immediate issue of pain. If your neck pain is acute, it may be all that is needed.
However, if you have chronic neck pain you will also need to consider modifying some of your current habits, making relaxation a deliberate part of your life, and seeking help from a professional.
Habit Changes
Dietary Changes
A healthy diet will supply needed nutrients to your body to effectively restore and repair injured tissue. Consume a variety of whole foods. Avoid sugars, artificial sugars, white flour, and processed foods for the most part.
Hydration
Dehydration makes pain worse. Try the apple cider vinegar tonic or lime and baking soda tonic mentioned above. Drink plenty of water or herbal tea. Carry a water bottle with you to help you remember to drink throughout the day.
Posture Changes
If you spend a lot of time using a computer or phone, take frequent breaks to stretch. Make an effort to improve your posture when using electronics.
Improve your Sleep Position
You may need to adjust your sleeping position to see which position(s) are best for you to minimize your pain. Oftentimes, back sleeping is the best for neck pain. If you sleep on your side you should not use a pillow that raises your head too high. Keeping your spine aligned while you sleep is best for your back and neck.
You may need to invest in a special pillow designed to reduce stress to the neck.
Relaxation Techniques
Cat Therapy
Sometimes the craziest sounding remedies work the best. Some have found that listening to a cat purring will reduce neck pain. Whether it is because the frequency of the cat purring has a benefit or if it is the relaxing effect of the purr, it is certainly a simple thing to try. Here is a link to Ted's Cat Purring Audio.
Epsom Salt Bath
A warm bath with 1 cup Epsom salt (and a drop or two of lavender essential oil if you like) is soothing. The Epsom salt, which is magnesium sulfate, absorbs into your body, which helps to relax the muscles. Water also has a calming effect.
Deep Breathing
Stress can cause shallow breathing, which reduces the oxygen supply to the muscles. Take a few minutes to stop thinking about your stresses, work, etc and breath deliberately. Sit up straight and inhale slowly through your nose. Then slowly exhale through your mouth.
Aerobic Exercise
Exercise helps your mood as well as your muscles. Regular aerobic exercise releases tension in your body, which in turn reduces pain. It also increases circulation needed to repair damage in your neck.
Alternate Health Professionals
Myofascial Release Therapist
Myofascial Release is a branch of physical therapy which focuses on relieving muscle pain caused by tight muscles. This gentle technique has brought relief to many neck sufferers.
Chiropractic
If your neck pain is caused by a misalignment of the spine, a reputable chiropractor should be able to realign your spine, bringing you relief.
Atlas Chiropractic
Atlas chiropractors are specialized in adjusting the "atlas." Your "atlas" is your C1, the first vertebra at the top of your spine. Often having your atlas realigned will help the rest of the spine "fall into place."
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient healing technique that is still used today. It is another alternative option for neck pain.
Have you experienced neck pain? What remedies did you try? We would love to hear from you!
Additional Pages of Interest:
Stiff Neck
