Question:

Updated on
May 1, 2012

Curamin for pain

I am looking for an alternative for my pain. Two years ago I was diagnosed with a herniated disc then 3 months later Breast Cancer. I am taking medication only at night, but would like to go the natural route. I know you have spoken about Willow bark and California poppy. I was unable to find them what I found was White willow. The consultant recommended Curamin, What are your thoughts?

Sincerely,
Amanda

Answer:

I fully agree with the advice provided by Dr Tsang. I am providing additional information regarding California poppy, Curcumin and Willow bark.
The switch from drugs to natural products must be done carefully. I recommend that you have a health care professional help you through this process. There are key issues like drug-herb interactions that you have to be careful of. Dropping the drugs for a natural product can result in rebound effects and this should only be done under proper medical/clinical guidance.
In the case of California poppy, it can be used effectively at night to relieve pain and help people sleep. The Pavosic brand is available for physicians and pharmacists and the EnteriPhyte brand for naturopathic doctors. It acts on both opioid and serotonin receptors so you have to be careful of any combinations with prescription pain medications (i.e., additive effects). The latter can potentiate even side effects. California poppy is a sedative and will cause drowsiness.
Willow bark can be good for pain management as well but you need to be careful of potential interactions due to the salicylate content of some products. There are fewer products on the market with willow bark as a key ingredient.
Curamin can be good as well. There are lots of natural products with this ingredient on the market. Turmeric (Curcumin) is a well known anti-inflammatory remedy and will help reduce pain by reducing inflammation. There are products on the market that contain curcumin plus other ingredients that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits. Curcumin can also cause interactions.
Talk to a health care professional prior to taking any herb if you have a medical condition and or are taking medication. This is important because there are health precautions and warnings associated with the use of every herb.

Response by Guy Chamberland M.Sc., Ph.D.

Self -medicating always has to be done carefully. Curamin is effective for some people. As with any new supplement, start with a small dose and gradually increase it to recommended daily dose. Beware of potential side effects such as fever or burning or an allergic reaction such as hives or itchy rash.
As another alternative, read the government of Canada`s website about the use of medical marihuana to alleviate debilitating pain: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/marihuana/index-eng.php
Of course this should be considered as a temporary measure.
Your conditions are your body`s way of telling you to stop and pay more attention to learning about your individual health needs. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy have all helped people with spinal disc problems. Orthopedic back surgery has also been helpful to some people. Gentle exercises such as yoga, chi gong, tai chi will help. Breast cancer means you need to detoxify and strengthen your body. A natural health practitioner can help you identify where you should start.

Response by Dr. Christopher Tsang

Disclaimer:

Before starting any new health program or before you begin taking any medication, natural medicine, or supplement, always check with your primary health care provider.