Taking pain medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter (including ibuprofen), may actually increase your risk for heart attack and stroke, say recent studies. Now the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people choose painkillers only as a “last resort,” according to Elliott M. Antman, M.D., lead author of the association’s new guidelines. But if you’re in pain, what should you do? Below, several natural ways of quelling problem spots:

Arthritis and Knee or Back Pain

Rub a pain-relieving cream, such as BenGay, into the affected area, suggests Yvonne Braver, M.D., of the Cleveland Clinic. One of the ingredients in BenGay is peppermint oil, so you could also try applying peppermint oil, which acts as a painkiller, directly to the area. Ginger tea may also relieve arthritis pain. Buy bagged ginger tea or make your own by slicing a chunk of fresh ginger root (about the size of your thumb) into a quart of water. Boil, then simmer for 30 minutes. Let cool before drinking.

Menstrual Pain

Flop down on the couch, turn on the TV and place a heating pad on your abdomen. If that doesn’t provide relief, consider taking six grams of fish oil. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. Cramp bark and black haw have also been used to treat menstrual pain and muscle spasms. Take one to four drops of both herbs every two to three hours (order them from sunstoneherbs.com).

Sprains and Other Injuries

“Remember the acronym R.I.C.E.,” says Dr. Braver. “That stands for rest, ice, compression (as with an Ace-type bandage) and elevation.” Try all four, in that order. “Never underestimate the healing powers of a bag of ice,” she adds.

Migraine Headaches

Ice or heat packs may relieve the pressure. And butterbur extract (try the Vitamin Shoppe) may prevent headaches in the first place. Studies have shown that taking 50 to 75 milligrams twice a day can decrease the number of attacks.