15 Best Natural Alternatives to Diclofenac for Pain Relief

Most Effective Natural Alternatives to Diclofenac

Plants, vitamins, supplements, spices, and herbs are rich in anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, providing pain and inflammation relief similar to NSAIDs.

Unlike NSAIDs, these natural compounds generally have fewer side effects, making them a safer option for long-term pain management.

So, what is the strongest natural pain reliever? Let’s explore these natural alternatives to Diclofenac in detail!

1. White Willow Bark

• Active Compound: Salicin
• Uses: Lower back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis
• Forms: Capsules, tea, tincture

White willow bark comes from the white willow tree (Salix alba) and is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, making it a strong natural alternative to NSAIDs.

It contains bioactive compounds such as salicin and salicylates, which inhibit prostaglandins and procyanidins, effectively treating lower back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

White willow bark can be consumed as an encapsulated supplement or in an alcohol-based tincture. However, it should be avoided by those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or sensitive to aspirin. [Sources]

2. Curcumin

• Active Compound: Curcumin
• Uses: Inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, arthritis
• Forms: Capsules, powder, tablet

Curcumin can be a good alternative to diclofenac for pain relief because it reduces inflammation and has fewer side effects.

It works by blocking pain-causing factors and lowering inflammation markers, which helps with conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Unlike diclofenac, curcumin is generally safer for long-term use. However, higher doses may increase the risk of bleeding in those who are taking blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders. [Resources]

3. Turmeric 

• ActiveCompound: Curcumin (found in turmeric)
• Uses: Osteoarthritis, ulcers, indigestion
• Forms: Powder, capsules, tincture

Turmeric has healing and medicinal properties. It is a whole spice that is derived from turmeric plants found in Southeast Asia and has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines for wound healing and to treat gastrointestinal problems.

Its 400-600 mg doses are taken 3 times a day in the form of loose powder or pill to alleviate pain and inflammation. Turmeric effectively treats ulcers, indigestion, stomach upset, osteoarthritis, and psoriasis.

However, its large amount may cause stomach upset, headache, yellow stool, rash, nausea, and diarrhea so use it in moderation. You can also consume a pinch of black pepper with turmeric for better absorption and effectiveness. [Resources]

4. Ginger

• Active Compound: Gingerol
• Uses: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, period cramps
• Forms: Tea, capsules, powder

Ginger comes from the rhizomes of a herbaceous plant i.e. Zingiber officinale. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and has been used for several years in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines to relieve pain, gastrointestinal issues, and inflammation.

The ginger supplement contains anti-analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, effectively treating knee osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-surgical pain, and period cramps similar to NSAIDs without any adverse effects.

You can consume ginger in tea or in the form of a capsule containing powdered root. However, if you have acid reflux, ginger supplements will not suit you.[Evidence]

5. Green Tea

• Active Compounds: epicatechins, catechins, polyphenols
• Uses: Arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease
• Forms: Tea

Green tea inhibits the production of certain inflammatory compounds, reducing inflammation and treating arthritis issues.

Green tea is enriched with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances such as flavonoid agents (epicatechins and catechin) and polyphenols.

It is a safe and natural treatment for metabolic syndromes, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. 

It also slows down the cartilage loss process; however, it is not best for pregnant women as it causes iron deficiency.

The recommended dose for green tea is 2 cups per day as its large amount can affect your heart, liver, and kidney system.

Moreover, you should not add sugar to your green tea as it can negate the benefits. [Evidence]

6. Cat’s Claw

• Active Compound: Various alkaloids
• Common Uses: Inflammation, pain, Aid digestion, Boost the immune system
• Forms: Capsules, tea

Cat's claw is a vine native to the Amazon rainforest, named for its curved thorns resembling cat's claws. Primarily used as a supplement in capsule or tea form, it has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.

The root and bark are used to make medicine primarily for treating inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, and boosting the immune system.

It is also used for digestive issues, and viral infections, and to support overall wellness.

However, it may cause kidney failure in patients with lupus(An autoimmune disease occurs when your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your tissues and organs). [Evidence]

7. Arnica

• Active Compounds: Various active constituents
• Uses: Bruising, osteoarthritis, surgery pain
• Forms: Topical creams, gels

Arnica is a herb found in Siberia and some parts of North America and Central Europe. Arnica is used to treat sore throat, osteoarthritis, surgery pain, swelling, bleeding, bruising, and other conditions.

It is available in oral and topical form; however oral form can cause serious effects and are diluted to lower the risk of adverse effects.

On the other hand topical form can cause peeling, blisters, eczema, and skin irritation if used for the long term.[Source]

8. Frankincense/Boswellia

• Active Compound: Boswellic acids
• Uses: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, colitis
• Forms: Capsules, tinctures, topical treatments

Frankincense or Boswellia serrata eases pain, stiffness, and inflammation, reverses autoimmune symptoms, and reduces cartilage loss and glycosaminoglycan degradation.

It inhibits lipoxygenase enzymes, cytokines, and transcription factors, treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis pain within 7 days.

Frankincense also treats colitis (inflamed colon), asthma symptoms, and brain swelling. It has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years due to its stronger anti-inflammatory and anti-analgesic properties. 

It is consumed in the form of pills, tinctures, or topical treatments. Its recommended dose is 250-500 mg or 20-30% boswellic acid 2-3 times a day.

It is a safe alternative to NSAIDs and causes mild side effects such as diarrhea and stomach pain. You can also combine frankincense with curcumin to enhance its effectiveness. [Evidence]

 9. Cloves

• Active Compound: Eugenol
• Uses: Toothaches, headaches, arthritis
• Forms: Powder, capsules, essential oil

Cloves are used in rice dishes, spicy meat, pies, and many other foods.It contains high amounts of eugenol and acts as a natural pain reliever to treat colds, nausea, headaches, toothaches, diarrhea, indigestion, and arthritis.

It is consumed in the form of powder, capsule, and oil (for topical purposes to reduce pain).

However, its high amount can cause allergic reactions, liver problems, skin irritation, and bleeding, so use it in moderation and consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplements. [Evidence]

10. S-Adenosylmethionine (SAM-e)

• Uses: Osteoarthritis, liver problems, depression
• Forms: Tablets, capsules

SAM-e (a compound) is naturally produced by your body and is involved in the epigenetic regulation of genes, meaning it turns some genes on or off and affects the gene functionality.

Doctors prescribe SAM-e to manage symptoms of liver problems, osteoarthritis, and depression. It also eases pain and inflammation resulting from various types of arthritis similar to NSAIDs. [Evidence]

11. Zinc

• Uses: Reduces inflammation, supports immune system
• Forms: Tablets, lozenges

Zinc is one the effective natural anti-inflammatory supplements that support your immune system. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce pain, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

It also lowers the risk of cancer and reduces infection rates by 66%. Its recommended dose is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men.

If you take more than 40 mg a day, it will reduce the level of your good cholesterol and lower your immune function. 

Moreover, zinc can interact with diuretics, certain antibiotics, and calcium. So if you are taking any of these drugs, consult your doctor before taking zinc supplements. [Evidence]

12. Fish Oil/Fatty Fish

• Active Compounds: Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
• Uses: Vascular inflammation, arthritis
• Forms: Capsules, liquid

Fish oil and fatty fish such as sardines, lake trout, tuna, herring, mackerel, or salmon are a great source of two types of omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Omega-3 fatty acids treat vascular inflammation and many other types of inflammation resulting from bursitis, asthma, dementia, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and osteoarthritis by inhibiting prostaglandins and cytokines. 

These acids can also increase the risk of bleeding in those who are taking blood thinners or already have bleeding disorders.

The recommended dose for omega-3 fatty acids is 250-500 mg of EPA and DHA oil per day to prevent heart diseases and vascular inflammation.

However, before taking fish oil supplements, you must consult your doctor to avoid any adverse effects.

13. Tart Cherry Juice

• Active Compounds: Anthocyanins, cyanidin
• Uses: Osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia
• Forms: Juice, extract

Tart cherries are fruits from the Prunus cerasus tree and are enriched with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and biochemical compounds such as anthocyanins, cyanidin, and flavonoids.

These cherries were first cultivated in France in the 18th century and are the best all-in-one anti-inflammatory supplement.

Tart cherry juice or tart cherry extract improves mobility and reduces pain and inflammation in patients with fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis by inhibiting COX enzymes similar to NSAIDs like naproxen and ibuprofen without any side effects.

Its recommended dose is 45 cherries a day or two bottles of tart cherry juice (355 ml) for 8 consecutive days.

14. Bromelain

• Active Compound: Bromelain
• Uses: Osteoarthritis, muscle soreness
• Forms: Tablets, capsules

Bromelain supplements ease pain and swelling in the gums, sinuses, nose, and other parts of your body after injury and surgery.

It treats cancer, osteoarthritis, muscle soreness, burns, wounds, and digestive problems. Although bromelain is found in pineapples, its amount is not enough to produce medicinal effects.

So you have to take bromelain as a supplement as a tablet or capsule. Its daily recommended dose is 80-230 mg.

15. Capsaicin

• Active Compound: Capsaicin
• Uses: Muscle and joint pain
• Forms: Cream, gel, patch

Capsaicin gives heat to hot peppers and reduces substance P, a pain transmitter produced by your body. It is available in the form of topical patch, gel, ointment, oil, and cream, reducing your body’s ability to feel pain.

It treats muscle and joint pain caused by strains, arthritis, bruises, sprains, and cramps. After using capsaicin, wash your hands properly as it can irritate your eyes or skin.

Other Therapies for Pain Relief

1. Heat and Ice Therapy

• Uses: Joint stiffness, muscle pain
• Forms: Heating pad, ice pack

Applying heat or ice at the site of pain reduces inflammation and swelling, caused by arthritis, muscle spasms, and strained tendons, ligaments, or muscles.

Heat also reduces joint stiffness resulting from strains and sprains. A heating pad or cold pack reduces headaches while an ice pack treats lower back pain, swelling, bleeding, and inflammation. 

However, applying heat or ice may cause pain, blisters, numbness, itchiness, or ice burns, so consult your doctor before using an ice pack or heating pad. 

2. Mind-Body Therapies

Yoga and Massage

• Uses: General pain relief, muscle relaxation
• Forms: Yoga sessions, massage therapy

Yoga: Yoga strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and enhances overall well-being. It is particularly effective for relieving joint pain, backache, and fibromyalgia (widespread musculoskeletal pain).

Massage: Massage therapy helps relax stiff muscles, release tension, and increase blood flow. It can effectively reduce pain and inflammation by targeting muscle tension and improving circulation.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical procedure to balance the body’s natural energy pathways and relieve pain. In this, acupuncturists insert small, fine, and thin needles into your skin.

Your body releases serotonin that reduces pain, and stress levels, and promotes healing. Acupuncture is a good alternative to NSAIDs and is used to treat migraine, knee osteoarthritis, myofascial pain, neck pain, fibromyalgia, and lower back pain (either acute or chronic). 

Besides these remarkable benefits, acupuncture can cause infection, bleeding, allergic reaction, loss of consciousness, and tissue, nerve, or organ injury in those who are pregnant, have a pacemaker or bleeding problems, or use blood thinners.

3. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Physiotherapy for Pain

CBT is an effective talking or psychotherapy that helps people suffering from chronic pain and inflammation. This therapy reduces cytokines, and flare-ups, and treats inflammation, making it the best alternative to NSAIDs. 

On the other hand, physiotherapy involves trained professionals who analyze and treat injuries causing physical pain. Physiotherapists improve mobility, reduce the risk of further injury, and enhance the quality of your life.

Physiotherapy can treat sports injuries, arthritis, muscle/joint stiffness, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, lung and breathing issues, heart and blood circulation problems, and brain and nervous system issues.

4. Meditation

Meditation techniques such as deep breathing, mindful walking, visualization, body scan, and muscle relaxation control pain, regulate your immune system, manage stress, and reduce inflammation.

Meditation reduces pro-inflammatory biomarkers (CRP and IL-6) and treats migraine and headaches, making it the best alternative to conventional painkillers, NSAIDs, and other drugs[Source].

5. Dietary and Lifestyle Changes

Diet: Eating the right foods can naturally reduce pain and improve long-term health. Diets that include nuts, fruits, whole grains, vegetables, fish rich in omega-3s, berries, coffee, and healthy oils can help because these foods are rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.

Incorporating these foods into your daily meals is an easy way to ease pain. Learn more about how your diet can help with pain relief here.

Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes overall well-being and can help manage pain.

Stress Management: Chronic stress can worsen pain. Techniques like yoga and meditation can help manage stress and improve pain tolerance.

Supplements for Pain Relief

Certain supplements such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin (Often used together), vitamin C (found in citrus fruits and pineapple), bioflavonoids, and magnesium (used for muscle tension and headaches) are the best supplements for pain and inflammation.

They treat heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, muscle strains and sprains, headache, migraine, and other chronic conditions effectively and safely.

These supplements are enriched with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and promoting healing.

More Options

What are some alternative pain relief options if natural remedies aren't effective or if immediate relief is needed?

If these natural alternatives do not work for you or you want immediate relief from pain, you can try some other options, including:

1. Topical Therapies

Diclofenac gel, topical lidocaine, and other topical NSAIDs are directly applied to the painful area, offering less absorption into the bloodstream and quick pain relief without any side effects.

These topical solutions have inflammation-reducing and pain-relieving properties and are best for the treatment of localized pain such as pain in the knees, feet, and hands.

However, you must use them according to your doctor’s instructions.

2. Acetaminophen: Non-Nsaid and Non-Opioid Painkiller

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is well-tolerable and treats mild-moderate pain and reduces fever. It also reduces the pain of osteoarthritis;

however, it does not reduce swelling or inflammation. Taking too much acetaminophen can damage your liver or cause skin rashes or difficulty breathing. If you get any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

3. Paracetamol

 Paracetamol is an OTC drug that makes your body feel less pain by offering numbing or cooling effects. It is well-tolerated than NSAIDs;

however, if taken too much, it can cause heart problems, skin reactions, shortness of breath, or liver damage. So, take paracetamol according to your doctor’s advice. 

4. Nonacetylated Salicylates 

Salsalate is a nonacetylated salicylic acid used to treat chronic arthritis, acting as an analgesic and antipyretic.

If you want to avoid aspirin due to digestive tract and bleeding problems, nonacetylated salicylates are the best option.

They are more effective than acetaminophen and less potent than aspirin; reducing pain and inflammation without affecting your stomach.

5. Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis are safer and more effective alternative to NSAIDs due to its high content of cannabinoids (CBD). They have anti-inflammatory properties and bind to the body's ECS (endocannabinoid system) receptors,

reducing pain and inflammation effectively without any side effects. Medical cannabis is available in edible and topical form,

treating multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart problems, inflammatory bowel disease, and general pain and inflammation. 

Some other alternative medication to diclofenac are:

• Duexis (famotidine/ ibuprofen)
• Vimovo (esomeprazole/ naproxen)
• Clinoril (sulindac)
• Dolobid (diflunisal)
• Orudis KT (ketoprofen)
• Daypro (oxaprozin)
• Nalfon (fenoprofen)
• Tolectin DS (tometin)
• Toradol (ketorolac)
• Orapred (prednisolone)
• Aleve (naproxen)
• Zostrix (capsaicin)
• Ibuprofen

How to Switch to a Diclofenac Alternative Safely

Diclofenac possesses potent anti-inflammatory and anti-analgesic properties; however, if used for the long term, it causes many adverse effects such as gastrointestinal and heart problems.

If you get any of the unwanted side effects, consult your doctor before stopping taking diclofenac. If you stop on your own and switch to a diclofenac alternative, you may experience serious effects.

Visit your doctor and he will prescribe you a better alternative, letting you switch to a diclofenac alternative safely.

The Verdict

Natural supplements with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties fight against your body’s pain and inflammation effectively and do not cause any adverse effects.

These natural alternatives prevent you from long-term complications and do not let you rely only on OTC and prescription drugs for pain management.

However, before switching to natural alternatives, consult your doctor to avoid any interaction or adverse side effects.

What Is the Strongest Natural Anti-Inflammatory for Joints/Joint Pain?

What is a natural anti-inflammatory for pain? The strongest and most natural anti-inflammatory for pain is turmeric, S-adenosylmethionine, ginger, zinc, curcumin, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil.

They contain potent anti-inflammatory effects, reducing pain and inflammation without side effects. 

What Is Safer Than Diclofenac?/What Is the Safest Anti-Inflammatory Other Than Diclofenac?

In terms of medicines, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are safer than diclofenac as they do not cause cardiovascular and gastrointestinal problems.

However, the natural options may include ginger and turmeric (curcumin), offering long-term pain and inflammation management without side effects. 

Which Vitamin Is the Most Anti-Inflammatory?

Vitamins A, D, E, and C contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, regulating your immune system and reducing inflammation. You must take them as a part of your balanced diet. 

What Is the Most Powerful Herb for Inflammation?

Turmeric with its active ingredient i.e. curcumin is the most powerful herb for reducing pain and inflammation. It treats various conditions such as ulcers, indigestion, stomach upset, osteoarthritis, and psoriasis, making it a popular natural remedy for inflammation. 

What Can I Take Daily to Reduce Inflammation?

You can take or incorporate turmeric (curcumin), zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, green tea, S-adenosylmethionine, and ginger into your diet regularly to fight against inflammation and pain.

These natural options let you manage your pain and inflammation for the long term without any side effects.

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