Natural Pain Relief That Actually Works (and Doesn’t Involve Just Stretching More)

Let’s be honest - if you’re dealing with pain or chronic tension, you’ve probably heard all the standard advice: “Drink more water.” “Have a bath.” “Do some stretches.”
And while those things can help, when you’re actually in pain? They often feel like someone handing you a leaf and calling it a solution.

We believe you deserve better.

At Accidental Alchemy, we’re big believers in supporting your body in a way that’s natural, grounded, and actually helps. Between us, we’ve tested just about every holistic remedy out there - from clinical practices to age-old plant medicine. These are the ones we turn to again and again - personally and professionally.

Let’s dive in.

Hot & Cold Compresses: So Simple, So Effective

Old-school and underrated. Switching between warm and cool cloths increases circulation, reduces swelling, and speeds up healing. We use this all the time - especially paired with herbs like comfrey or arnica.

When Dan broke his foot we discoverd the magic of Comfrey! So, our top tip is to steep comfrey in hot water (just like making tea!) and soak a cloth in it for 10 minutes and use that for your compresses - then follow up with something cold. We often break out the classic frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel.

Turmeric: The Anti-Inflammatory You Can Sip

Turmeric (specifically its active compound, curcumin) has powerful anti-inflammatory effects - especially when paired with black pepper to increase absorption.

Try it as a cosy evening golden milk:
✨ Warm plant milk + ½ tsp turmeric + pinch of black pepper + dash of cinnamon + a touch of honey.

It’s like a hug for your joints and your gut.

Gentle Foam Rolling (That Doesn’t Feel Like Torture)

We’re not talking about punishing yourself with a hard roller and hoping for the best. Foam rolling can actually feel amazing—if you approach it gently. It helps release tight fascia, improve circulation, and reduce soreness after movement.

Top tip:
Start by rolling against a wall instead of the floor. You’ll have more control, less intensity, and more chance of sticking with it.

Lymphatic Drainage: The Flow That Keeps You Feeling Light

Your lymphatic system is your body’s waste removal system. It moves fluid, filters out toxins, and supports immunity, which is even more important when your body is recovering and repaiting. But it doesn’t move on its own - it needs you to move it.

Some easy ways to support your lymph:
• Dry brushing (always working towards the heart)
• Walking, bouncing, or gentle yoga
• Deep belly breathing (try a few slow 4-second inhales and 6-second exhales)
• A warm magnesium bath followed by gentle massage

It’s subtle but powerful—and can really help if you’re feeling puffy, sluggish, or “stuck.”

Lavender: Not Just a Pretty Scent

Lavender is often reduced to “nice smell” status, but it’s a legit support for pain, tension, and anxiety. Research has shown it can help ease headaches and relax muscles - especially when inhaled and applied topically.

Try this mini ritual (Faye's favourite way to shift a headache!) 
• Rub 1–2 drops of lavender essential oil (in a carrier) into your temples and shoulders
• Do 3 rounds of 4-7-8 breathing
• Rest with a cool cloth over your eyes for 5 minutes

Magnesium: The Quiet Hero You’re Probably Low In

Magnesium is essential for muscle relaxation, sleep, and nervous system regulation—and most of us aren’t getting enough. Applying it topically (like in The Relief One or The Sleep One) delivers direct support to tense areas. It’s the balm you didn’t know you needed.

Try: A magnesium balm before bed or after exercise for deep tension relief.

You Deserve Relief That Actually Works

Pain and tension don’t have to be your norm. There’s a quiet revolution happening - where people are stepping away from quick fixes and returning to slow, intentional, natural care.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about creating tiny rituals that reconnect you to your body and offer real, grounded support.

Whether you try one of these tips or all of them, we hope it helps you feel a little more at ease in your body.

Want to keep learning gentle, powerful ways to support your health?

Browse our journal or follow us on Instagram @accidental_alchemy for slow wellness rituals, natural pain relief, and sleep tips that work with your body, not against it.