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Analgesic — herbalism term · PlantSage glossary

0Glossary·Analgesic
ISection · 01

Analgesic defined

Relieves pain.

II

The definition

Plants that reduce pain perception — from mild aches to severe chronic pain. Range from gentle (chamomile) to clinically meaningful (willow bark, kratom, opium poppy in regulated contexts).

Mechanism

Salicylates (willow) inhibit COX; alkaloids (poppy) bind opioid receptors; capsaicin desensitises pain fibres on repeat exposure.

III

Example plants

Classic species in this category from the PlantSage archive.

Meadowsweet
Filipendula ulmaria
White Willow
Salix alba
Salicaceae
V

See also

Anti-inflammatory

Reduces inflammation, acute or chronic.

Antispasmodic

Relieves smooth-muscle cramping.

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