What to Use Instead of Panadol for Pain Relief
Many of us reach for Panadol (paracetamol) at the first sign of pain — whether it’s a headache, muscle ache, or period cramps. While Panadol can be effective in the short term, it mainly works by dulling pain signals in the brain. It doesn’t address the underlying inflammation that often drives discomfort, and long-term or frequent use can strain the liver.
The good news? Nature provides powerful alternatives that not only ease pain but also reduce the root causes — inflammation and nerve irritation. Two of the most researched natural options are curcumin (from turmeric) and PEA (palmitoylethanolamide).
Curcumin: The Golden Anti-Inflammatory
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Modern research shows it:
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Blocks inflammatory pathways (like NF-κB and COX-2) that trigger pain.
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Acts as an antioxidant, protecting tissues and nerves from damage.
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Can help with arthritis, period pain, muscle aches, and even migraines.
Tip: Curcumin is best absorbed when taken with black pepper (piperine) and fat (like olive oil or coconut oil). High-quality supplements usually include these for better bioavailability.
PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide): Calming Nerve Pain Naturally
PEA is a fatty acid produced naturally by our bodies and found in foods like egg yolks and peanuts. It works by:
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Calming overactive immune cells that drive inflammation.
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Soothing irritated nerves, making it particularly useful for nerve-related pain like sciatica, fibromyalgia, and pelvic pain.
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Supporting the body’s own endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain and stress responses.
💡 Tip: PEA is usually taken as a supplement in capsule form. It’s well tolerated, even for long-term use, with minimal side effects.
🌿 Other Gentle Pain Soothers
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Magnesium — relaxes tight muscles and eases tension headaches.
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Ginger — reduces inflammation and nausea, useful for period pain.
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Boswellia (Frankincense extract) — supports joint comfort in arthritis.
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Omega-3 fatty acids — reduce inflammatory chemicals that cause stiffness and soreness.
The Takeaway
Panadol can mask pain temporarily, but natural options like curcumin and PEA help address the root causes — inflammation and nerve sensitivity. By choosing these, you not only get relief but also support long-term healing and resilience.
As always, chat with your healthcare professional before making changes, especially if you’re on medication or managing a chronic condition.