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As my husband watched the news this morning, I overheard something that really caught my attention. According to the news report, the over-the-counter medicine Acetaminophen, commonly found in Tylenol and used for pain relief, is up for debate and scrutiny because it was discovered that many scholarly studies were talking about acetaminophen’s carcinogenic properties.
That’s right, many studies claim that acetaminophen may be the root cause to some individuals developing cancer and the news is just now deciding to inform people of this!
It is something that many individuals in the holistic health & wellness realm have been saying for a long time: These over-the-counter medicines are poisonous!
Poisons are substances that cause harm to organisms when sufficient quantities are absorbed, inhaled or ingested.
~According to the Science Learning Hub
I don’t know about you, but I find that is extremely concerning! But still, this topic is up for debate as other researchers claim that some of the studies conducted on acetaminophen were inconclusive. However, the studies that do show this pain relief medication is harmful should not be overlooked. In fact, a quick search on PubMed led me instantly to numerous studies and peer reviewed journals on the harmful effects of acetaminophen!
Now, I understand that like the majority of substances, harmful effects arise when the substance is taken in larger amounts or for a longer duration of time. So those who use Tylenol sparingly probably do not have to worry about the carcinogenic effects that is now circulating the media. Yet, my studies and education in Integrative Medicine Sciences has shown me that the Earth provides what the body needs for healing, pain relief, and so much more.
Some Quick Facts…
- Acetaminophen is found in over 600 medications. Meaning acetaminophen may be in more than one product that you are using at any given time. *
- Common products containing acetaminophen are: Tylenol, Excedrin, Sudafed, Robitussin and Theraflu. *
- Acute liver failure- 50% are in the U.S. are attributed to acetaminophen toxicity. Liver trouble begins 72 to 96 hours after ingestion. *
- Some medicines are contraindicated with taking acetaminophen. *
- Acetaminophen is the most commonly used over-the-counter fever reducer & pain medication. *
- Drinking & acetaminophen at the same time should be avoided because they both overwhelm the liver and cause greater risk of liver damage. *
- Children- it is unsafe for any child to take any more than 1 medication containing acetaminophen at a time. Concerning when cough medicines and pain reliever/ fever reducers are often given during the flu. *
You do have options!
There are numerous substances that come from the Earth that have shown to support the body in the same ways as acetaminophen. This is wonderful because it leaves us with options!
Aromatherapy-
- Peppermint- analgesic & febrifuge
- Black Pepper- analgesic & febrifuge
- Eucalyptus- analgesic & febrifuge
- Roman Chamomile- febrifuge
- Lavender- analgesic
- Ravensara- analgesic
- Marjoram- analgesic
Aromatherapy is best used topically for its analgesic & febrifuge therapeutic properties or used properly diluted in an epsom salt bath.
Herbs-
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Cloves
- Peppermint
- Lemon Balm
- Feverfew
- Arnica (topical use only)
Herbs can easily be added to soups and other dishes for easy ingestion. At times of greater need, making tea is often the quickest way to gain the therapeutic properties of the herbs. Many herbs support a healthy immune response. While ingesting others hold anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Other Options-
- Elderberry Syrup- supports a healthy immune response; great at onset of cold/flu
- CBD– A wonderful pain management tool that can be bought & used in a cream form to provide relief from different types of pain.
- Rescue Remedy Cream– for when pain is associated with a physical stressor. (bruising,wounds, scrapes, etc.)
- Epsom Salt (Magnesium)- soothes the body & provides magnesium when used in a bath. Can be used with a base oil & aromatherapy.
- Trauma Oil– herbal infused base oil with therapeutic properties to ease pain. Perfect combination with aromatherapy.
- Acupuncture- both acute & chronic pain can be relieved with acupuncture.
My personal thoughts on the matter are this…
There will always be studies, scientists, and controversial discussion on a wide array of topics; especially as the holistic health movement gains popularity and recognition.
It is no surprise that my philosophies and coaching focus on limiting, and for those who are able- eliminating, all synthetically made substances by developing a support plan to aid in health and wellness by means of products of the Earth. Now this does not mean that I am necessarily anti-medication. By all means, if you need that Tylenol occasionally or a doctor has recommended an allopathic plan of treatment, then do it! Find what works for you and your wellness best.
Of course caution must always be taken with any substance- natural or synthetic. Especially when we see individuals doing things such as the “Tidepod Challenge” or the “Cinnamon Challenge”.
Warnings may not be such a bad thing.
They allow individuals to be more informed about what they are using and make a reasonable decision that fits into their lives. It allows for discussion to take place among professionals who are more knowledgeable, and it reminds people that medicines, even over-the-counter ones, need to be taken with care and used in a reasonable manner.
* Clickable link for reference purposes.
