There has been a lot of bending, stooping, squatting and reaching at my house lately. It is our annual yard clean-up time, which creates a lot of muscle soreness, aches and pains. It always takes a few weeks to get back into gardening shape after a mostly sedentary winter.

Can plants help with pain? I think most herbalists would say absolutely. In general, they may not be as strong as some over-the-counter medications, but when used wisely they have helped me.

Willow bark is one of my favorites. The active ingredient, salicin or salicylic acid, is found in the leaves and bark of willows. This plant has a history of use that dates back 4,000 years. (tinyurl.com/mw9hvy3m)

Salicylic acid is a naturally occurring plant hormone that aids plant growth and development. It can help plants resist certain stressors, like pathogens and pests.

Willow bark extract is used for reducing pain and inflammation. Another lesser-known herb that also contains salicylic acid is meadowsweet. It is reported to have a wintergreen-cherry flavor.

After one of our work days, I made myself some turmeric tea and it helped tremendously with overall soreness. Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric. This plant has been used for over 5,000 years as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. For a simple turmeric tea recipe, check out Michigan State University Extension at tinyurl.com/5y58beuy.

Sometimes, I will add a little ginger to my turmeric tea. This is another plant with anti-inflammatory properties. The spice is made from the root of the plant and has been used for more than 2,500 years. "The root contains essential oils and resins" that give ginger its spicy flavor. It contains compounds, which are said to "aid in pain relief and decrease inflammation." (tinyurl.com/3druurfk)

For topical pain relief, St. John's wort oil, arnica, peppermint and wintergreen have been used historically. Remember to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin. Also, it is a good idea to do a test patch.

Lastly, stinging nettle tea, which is rich in calcium and magnesium, may help give your muscles the nutrients they need to relax, which can decrease post-exertion aches and pain.

As always, please consult your healthcare provider before using herbs. They can interact with each other, over-the-counter and prescription medications.