Why You Shouldn’t Use Ibuprofen |
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Why You Shouldn’t Use Ibuprofen

Danielle November 28, 2018

By Danielle, contributing writer

Whether for an adult or baby, many reach for ibuprofen — brand names Motrin and Advil — to cure fever, pain and other ills. But is this commonly used over the counter drug healthy?

So many studies have said no, and even the FDA has issued warnings. An estimated 16,000 people die per year from NSAID use, and another 100,000 are hospitalized. Yet, we reach for the drug when worried about illness. Let’s unpack why this is not a drug that should be in your medicine cabinet.

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which is sold both over the counter and as prescription. NSAIDs block the production of prostaglandins, which our bodies release in response to injury or inflammation. We feel these prostaglandins when we feel pain.

Note that drugs made from acetaminophen, like Tylenol, Robitussin, and Nyquil, are not covered here but do carry their own risks.

Dangers of Ibuprofen Use

Instead, try these natural pain and symptom relievers.

You do not need ibuprofen to relieve aches, pains, and fevers. There are natural remedies which will actually solve the symptoms, not just cover them up.

For fever, try:

  • Lukewarm cloths on the calves
  • Lavender oil on the forehead
  • Lemon clothes or socks – add juice of half squeezed lemon onto cloths or socks (covered by another thick pair of socks), and plan onto the body 2-3 times per day
  • Sip bone broth and filtered water consistently
  • Take a bioavailable calcium supplement
  • Lots of sleep, fluids, and lukewarm baths
  • Sip on apple cider vinegar in water, or also place it on cloths on the calves or socks

For arthritis, try:

  • A GAPs or Autoimmune paleo diet
  • Turmeric, ginger, and garlic daily
  • Drink 1-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in water daily
  • Consume aloe vera juice
  • Add cat’s clar and eucalyptus supplements

For menstrual cramps and pain, try:

  • Red raspberry tea frequently to encourage a healthy uterus.
  • A heating pad or castor oil pack on the uterus.
  • Try doing a juice cleanse before your next cycle starts to rid the body of toxins.
  • Take a maca supplement and cod liver oil, or other omega 3’s daily

Ibuprofen is taken daily around the world, but people are also checking into the hospital with terrible ibuprofen side effects. There are much better, natural ways to take care of aches and pains. Try a natural remedy instead next time, and toss the ibuprofen out today.

Do you use ibuprofen? Tell us why or why not.

This is the writings of:

Danielle was born and always will be a farm girl, searching for God’s natural truths in an unnatural world. She’s a doula, health coach, natural health activist, and currently obtaining her naturorthopathic doctorate degree. When she isn’t reading about holistic healing, you will likely find her chasing a sweet little boy or a small flock of rebellious chickens in the Midwest mud.
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4 Comments

  1. I admit, this crunchy mama does use ibuprofen on a semi regular basis. I get migraines a couple times a month, and ibuprofen (or Tylenol, if I must) knocks it back well enough that I don’t have to resort to rescue meds. I’ve always assumed that was choosing the lesser of 2 evils, but I can’t honestly say I’ve researched it. I’m just glad that natural lifestyle choices and diet have taken me from 1-2 migraines a week, to 1-2 a month!

    Reply

  2. I knew acetaminophen depleted glutathione but I was unaware ibuprofen did as well! Thank you!

    Reply

  3. I find no proof of NCAIDs significantly depleting glutathione
    Acetaminophen is the known glutathione depletor

    Reply

  4. NSAIDs are very hard on whole body health. Thanks for this post as I am gathering info for family, friends, clients who take it on a regular basis.

    Reply

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Hi, I’m Kate.  I love medical freedom, sharing natural remedies, developing real food recipes, and gentle parenting. My goal is to teach you how to live your life free from Big Pharma, Big Food, and Big Government by learning about herbs, cooking, and sustainable practices.

I’m the author of Natural Remedies for Kids and the owner and lead herbalist at EarthleyI hope you’ll join me on the journey to a free and healthy life!

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