Arthritis is a common condition that affects people of all ages and can cause chronic pain and inflammation in the joints. It can be a debilitating condition, making everyday activities difficult and even painful. Fortunately, there are many natural remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of arthritis and improve joint health. In this post, we will discuss some of the best home remedies for arthritis and discuss how to implement them into your daily routine. We will also discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and how diet and exercise can help reduce symptoms. Finally, we will provide tips for living with arthritis and coping with the pain and discomfort it can cause. With the right approach, you can find relief from the pain and discomfort of arthritis and lead a more active and healthy life.
What Exactly is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a disease that causes chronic joint pain and stiffness, immobility, and sometimes disability. The word ‘arthritis’ means ‘inflammation of joints’. It comes from two Greek words, athron meaning joints and its meaning inflammation. Because arthritis is an inflammation disease, and food can greatly influence the level of joint pain, choosing the right foods can be pivotal in alleviating the pain and swelling associated with this condition. In the early stages, the whole body is usually involved and one or two joints may become completely deformed, leaving the patient disabled and somewhat weakened. Rheumatoid arthritis, Polyarthritis, Osteoarthritis, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, septic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, Lupus, Gout are some kind of arthritis.
Root Causes
The main cause of arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing arthritis include age, family history, obesity, joint injuries, and infections. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that it is caused by the body’s immune system attacking itself. In people with rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and joint damage. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.
Osteoarthritis vs Rheumatoid
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time. It is the most common form of arthritis, and is often caused by aging, obesity, overuse, or injury. Symptoms usually include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the lining of joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and swelling. It can also affect other organs and tissues in the body. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is not caused by wear and tear. It is more aggressive than osteoarthritis and can lead to joint damage and disability if not treated properly.
3 Types of Arthritis
There are different types of arthritis. The most common type is osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear on the joints. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis.
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form and results from the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Without cartilage, the bone rubs on bone, which results in pain and stiffness. It is a degenerative joint disease which usually occurs in the older age-group. It results from structural changes in the articular cartilage in the joints, usually those which are weight-bearing such as the spine and knees. Other symptoms include watery eyes, dry neck, leg cramps, allergies, arterisclerosis, impairment in the functioning of the gall-bladder and liver disturbances. The possible causes include malnutrition, continuous physical stress, obesity, glandular insufficiency, calcium deficiency and shortage of hydrochloric acid.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
It results from the inflammation of the synovium, a layer of tissue around the joint. This inflammation can cause damage to the joint over time and results in chronic pain and disability. Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease which affects not only the joints of the fingers, writs, hips, knees and feet but also the muscles, tendons and other tissues of the body. Symptoms include anemia, colitis, constipation, gall-bladder disturbances, low blood pressure, deformed hands and feet. The condition may be caused by hormonal imbalance, physical and emotional stress, infection, severe fright, shock and injury.
3. Juvenile Arthritis
It is also known as Still’s disease. It is any form of arthritis that occurs in children under eighteen years of age.
Q. What are the signs your hands are getting arthritis?
- Joint pain and swelling: Pain and stiffness in the joints of the fingers, hands, and wrists can be a sign.
- Loss of flexibility: Loss of range of motion and difficulty performing everyday tasks like turning a doorknob can be a sign.
- Numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling in the hands can be a sign of nerve damage caused by arthritis.
- Deformities: If the joints of the hands become deformed, this can be an indication of advanced stages of the disease.
- Hand weakness: Weakness in the hands can be a sign.
Q. I have pain in my back and knees, is it arthritis?
It is possible that you have arthritis, but it is impossible to make a diagnosis without a doctor’s evaluation. Please make an appointment with your healthcare provider to have a full evaluation of your symptoms. Arthritis is a general term for a group of more than 100 diseases that cause pain, aching, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
Arthritis Home Remedies
1. Devil’s Claw
It is the African Herb. Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is now one of the most scientifically validated herbal medicines for rheumatic and arthritic disorders. Perhaps the first herbal remedy to be considered for joint and muscle pain, devil’s claw can relieve arthritic pain and inflammation, slowing or preventing deterioration in symptoms. Devil’s claw extracts is effective in relieving arthritic pain in the knee, hip, and back. Osteoarthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, and back pain can all benefit from this herb. Devil’s claw is best taken before symptoms demand attention, especially if suitable dietary changes are also made. A distinctly bitter remedy, the tincture or decoction will help to stimulate appetite and absorption. Devil’s claw should not be used during pregnancy; it is best avoided if you suffer from stomach acidity or ulcers.
2. Potato
The raw potato juice therapy is considered one of the most successful biological treatment for rheumatic and arthritic conditions. It has been used in folk medicine for centuries. The old method of preparing potato juice was to cut the potato into thin slices, without peeling the skin, and place them overnight in a large glass filled with cold water. The water should be drunk in the morning on an empty stomach. Fresh juice can also be extracted from potatoes and diluted with water on 50: 50 basis, first thing in the morning.
3. Black Sesame Seeds
Very useful remedy to strengthen muscular system. Black sesame seeds also known as gingerly seeds, soaked overnight in water, have been found to be effective in preventing frequent joint pains. The water in which the seeds are soaked should also be taken along with the seeds the first thing in the morning. Drinking water kept overnight in a copper container also serves the same purpose. This water has traces of copper which helps strengthen the muscular system. For the same reason wearing a copper ring, wrist bands or bracelet will also help.
4. Cabbage Leaves
This is an old remedy for arthritis. Boil some cabbage leaves, cool them slightly and wrap the affected area in the warm leaves. Cover with a towel.
5. Celery
It is used in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatoid disorders; in Japan, rheumatic patients are sometimes put on a celery-only diet. Eat celery seeds to treat arthritis (for which they act as an anti-inflammatory) and to relieve muscle spasms (antispasmodic action).
6. Sea Bathing
Sea bathing is beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. The natural iodine in the sea water relieves arthritis pain. As is well-known, iodine regulates the acid-alkaline balance in the blood and tissues, helps to repair and regenerate worn out tissues and nourishes the skeletal structure. It enters into the thyroid gland’s secretion. The hormone uses this iodine to nullify germs in the bloodstream and to create a self- cleansing of internal toxemia. If sea bathing is not possible, relax for 30 minutes every night in a tub of warm water. Mix a cupful of sea salt in it. The minerals in the sea salt, especially iodine, will absorb through the skin pores. This will help correct an internal imbalance.
7. Nettle
The treatment is to grasp the nettles in a gloved hand and swat the sore joints with the nettles. This may seem bizarre, but the practice has proven to be so effective for some sufferers of arthritis that they now maintain a nettle plant on their window sill. The term “Urtication” comes from the botanical name, Urtica dioica and dates back some 2,000 years to biblical times. Urtica dioica is “Stinging Nettle. Eating nettles or drinking nettle tea is an old remedy for arthritis. The “stings” in stinging nettles contain histamine, which is anti-inflammatory.
8. Ginger + Castor Oil
You can also drink 1 cup of ginger tea with 2 teaspoons of castor oil added. Castor oil contains natural precursors of steroids, which help to heal the inflammatory condition of rheumatoid arthritis. Take this tea before going to bed. Expect some laxative effect from the castor oil.
9. Ayurvedic Herb
Simhanada guggulu tablet and chitrak-adhivati tablets are useful. But take appropriate dosage as per directed by physician. Similarly, take yogaraj guggulu and gandharva haritaki with castor oil for osteoarthritis pain relief as per doctor’s advice.
10. Boswellia
It is highly prized in traditional Indian medicine and has been used to treat conditions as varied as arthritis. Boswellia is fast becoming one of the most commonly taken medicines for arthritic problems. The specific anti-inflammatory action of the resin makes it an important remedy for chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. It can also prove valuable in relieving pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis.
11. Asparagus Water
Drink asparagus water (the water remaining after steaming asparagus spears) for urinary complaints, arthritis, and rheumatism.
12. Licorice
It works to ease inflammation and stiffness. Licorice’s anti inflammatory action serves to relieve stiffness, heat, and pain in muscles and joints. Working in a manner not too dissimilar to prescribed steroids, it helps to dampen chronic inflammation, easing associated discomfort in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and polymyalgia rheumatica.
13. Seaweed
Regular use of Bladderwrack (Fucus Vesiculosis) seaweed will delay the progress of arthritis and hardening of the arteries. To make an excellent liniment for rheumatism and arthritis add 1oz. (25g.) of dried bladderwrack to 2 cups (500ml.) of water. Simmer for a half-hour. Strain and add to an equal amount of comfrey infused oil. Shake before use and rub in well twice daily. Avoid bladderwrack if you are suffering from an overactive thyroid.
14. Joint Pain DIY Lotion
Massage warm coconut oil or mustard oil, mixed with camphor, in case of stiff and aching joints. It will increase blood supply and reduce inflammation and stiffness on account of gentle warmth produced while massaging. Camphorated oil is an ancient rubefacient useful for the purpose. OR Mustard oil can be rectified with alcohol (1 part oil to 40 parts alcohol) and used as a lotion for joint pains, arthritis, and sluggish circulation.
15. Black Cohosh
For muscle pain, arthritis, and rheumatic conditions (especially when associated with menopause), black cohosh can sometimes prove highly effective in relieving pain and inflammation and improving freedom of movement. As an antispasmodic, the herb eases cramps and restless muscles, and will tend to help lower raised blood pressure.
16. Lime
The citric acid found in lime is solvent of the uric acid which is the primary cause of arthritis. Other remedies found useful in relieving pains in the joints include green-gram soup mixed with crushed garlic cloves and a teaspoonful of powdered fenugreek seeds in warm water taken everyday.
17. Yoga Cure
The yogic asanas helpful in curing arthritis are trikonasana, bhujangasana, shalabhasana, naukasana, vakrasana and shavasana. Arthritis patients should practice these asanas regularly. Yogic kriyas like jalneti and kapalbhati and pranayamas such as anulomaviloma, ujjai and bhrameri are also beneficial.
18. Magnets
Consider magnets. For people with osteoarthritis in the hip or knee, a few studies have shown that wearing magnets helped relieve joint pain more effectively than a placebo. However, it’s hard to know whether the magnetic bracelets, necklaces, and pads on the retail market are as strong as those used in studies. There is interest in magnet therapy because the body has natural electromagnetic fields that researchers think may react positively to magnets. For instance, muscle contractions induced by signals from the nervous system are linked to magnetic activity. There is not yet enough information on exactly how magnets work to relieve pain, but researchers note that such products seem to do no harm.
19. Omega-3 fatty Acids
You can reduce omega-6 and increase omega-3 fatty acids in your diet by changing the types of oils you use and by increasing your fish intake. Use olive oil for cooking vegetables and for salad dressings. you can make salad dressings from flaxseed oil or walnut oil. Enjoy at least two meals per week that incorporate a fatty fish such as salmon or trout.
20 .Dark Color Fruits and Vegetables
Choose your fruits and vegetables by color. Eat orange, dark green, red, and purple produce throughout your week and enjoy as much of it as you can in its most natural form – for example, fresh berries added to your yogurt and carrot sticks or cantaloupe for a snack. Get creative with anti inflammatory spices such as curry and ginger. Sprinkle them into stir-fries or into a chicken or tuna salad.
21. Herbal Formula
Herbal remedies, such as turmeric and boswellia, are also often useful to reduce inflammation and pain. Ayurvedic massage can promote circulation and help reduce stiffness, while other therapies, such as yoga and meditation, can help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. One home remedy suggest, take 1 tablet of yogaraj guggulu twice a day. At night, take 1/2 teaspoon gandharva haritaki (haritaki sautéed in castor oil) with warm water. If you don’t have gandharva haritaki, use ginger tea with castor oil.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ayurveda
Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, is an ancient practice that offers many potential benefits for people with arthritis. Ayurvedic treatments focus on improving overall health and wellbeing, and involve dietary and lifestyle modifications, herbs, massage and other natural therapies. Ayurveda can help reduce inflammation and pain, promote balance and improve the body’s natural healing capabilities. Ayurvedic practitioners generally recommend a balanced diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, to help manage the symptoms of arthritis.
Tips for Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis Patients
- Catch some rays. Ultraviolet light generates skin production of vitamin D. Higher levels of this vitamin (and greater exposure to sunlight) correlate with a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Pop a fish oil capsule. Fish oil supplements also reduce morning stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Cod liver oil and evening primrose oil capsules can help rheumatoid arthritis.
- Herbs that contain calcium include nettles, parsley, dandelion leaves, kelp, and horsetail. Try eating as often as possible.
- Stretch three times a week. Slowly move your joints through their complete range of motion. Doing so helps to maintain flexibility and reduces the risk of injury.
- Keep the body warm at all times. Do not bandage joints tightly as this limits movement and interferes with the free circulation of blood.
- Recent evidence suggests that an increased intake of magnesium may help prevent the worst effects of osteoporosis. Magnesium sources include nuts, and brewer’s yeast.
- Apples are good detoxifiers. Eat them daily to improve symptoms and cure the condition.
- Rest is of greatest importance to arthritis, who should not overdo their work, exercise or recreation activities.
- Increase your intake of foods containing boron, which reduces the body’s excretion of calcium and magnesium, and increases the production of estrogen.
- Maintaining a normal body weight is also an important factor in preventing arthritis. Obesity places excess stress on weight-bearing joints and interferes with the smooth functioning of tendons, ligaments and muscles.
- Avoid Constipation as it poisons the system and adds to the irritation and inflammation of the joints. Light exercises such as walking, hiking and swimming are beneficial.
FAQs.
Q. What food should be avoided with arthritis?
The list include: fried foods, processed meats, refined sugars and carbohydrates, full fat dairy products, alcohol, and nightshade vegetables (such as tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplant).
Q. Is the spice turmeric really good as they say for inflammation conditions like arthritis?
Yes, turmeric is a very beneficial spice for treating inflammation and arthritis. Studies have shown that turmeric can reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the joints.
Q. Do copper bracelets really help ease arthritis? How does this work?
Proponents of copper bracelets suggest that the copper helps to reduce inflammation, which can help reduce pain. But there is no scientific evidence that copper bracelets help to reduce the symptoms.
Q. Does arthritis occur in young age?
Yes, it can occur in young age, although it is more common in older adults. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a type of arthritis that develops in children under 16 years of age. This condition can cause joint pain and swelling, as well as other symptoms.
Q. Will arthritis show up on an MRI?
Yes, it can show up on an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). It is a very effective imaging technique that can reveal changes in the joint due to arthritis, such as joint space narrowing, cartilage loss, and bone spurs.
Q. Can you detect arthritis from an X-ray?
Yes, it is possible to detect it from an X-ray. An X-ray can show signs of joint damage, bone spurs, and other changes that may indicate arthritis.
Q. Can cannabis help arthritis?
Yes, cannabis can help with it. It is believed to reduce pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that cannabis can help reduce pain and inflammation, which are the main symptoms. Cannabis may also help improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue associated with the condition.
Q. Is arthritis preventable?
No, arthritis is not preventable and there is no known way to prevent it from developing. However, certain lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk of developing certain types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis. These lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking.
Q. What is the best treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?
The best treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is a combination of medication, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgery. Medication is used to reduce inflammation and pain, and to slow or stop joint damage. Examples include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents. Physical therapy helps to improve range of motion, strength, and function. Lifestyle modifications, such as eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight, can help reduce symptoms. Surgery may be recommended for severe cases to correct joint deformities or replace a damaged joint.
Q. How effective is CBD oil for pain relief in arthritis?
CBD oil has been shown to be effective for alleviating symptoms of arthritis, such as pain and inflammation. Clinical studies have shown that CBD oil can reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, as well as improve sleep and quality of life. However, more research is needed to determine the exact effectiveness of CBD oil for arthritis pain relief.
Q. How is cracking your knuckles related to arthritis?
Cracking your knuckles does not cause arthritis. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that cracking your knuckles causes arthritis or any other health problems. In fact, a study conducted in 2015 found that people who crack their knuckles regularly actually had healthier hands than those who did not.
Q. Is peanut butter good for arthritis?
Peanut butter may provide some benefit to people with this condition. It contains healthy fats, protein, and vitamins that may help reduce inflammation. However, it is important to remember that eating too much peanut butter can lead to excess weight, which can worsen arthritis symptoms. Therefore, it is important to eat peanut butter in moderation and include other healthy foods in your diet.
Q. Why are my finger joints so stiff in the morning? Is it some sort of early onset arthritis?
It is possible that you may be experiencing early signs, however there can be various other reasons for stiff finger joints in the morning. These can include dehydration, overuse, an injury or an underlying medical condition such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is best to speak to your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Q. Do tomatoes aggravate arthritis?
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that tomatoes aggravate the symptoms. However, some people with arthritis have reported that certain foods, such as tomatoes, can increase their symptoms. It is recommended to speak with a doctor about any dietary changes to determine what is best for an individual’s health.
Q. How can I treat my arthritis naturally?
- Exercise regularly: Exercise can help improve joint flexibility and strength, reduce pain and stiffness, and increase range of motion.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation.
- Reduce stress: Stress can worsen arthritis symptoms, so stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help.
- Use heat and cold therapy: Applying heat and cold to affected joints can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep helps the body heal, so getting adequate sleep can help reduce arthritis symptoms.
- Use supplements: Natural supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate may help reduce arthritis symptoms.
Q. What are the most well-known herbal remedies for arthritis?
- Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the pain and swelling.
- Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Boswellia: Boswellia is a herb that has been used for centuries to treat various health conditions. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and swelling.
- Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a compound that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
- Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation.
Q. What fruits are good for arthritis?
- Apples
- Pears
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Pineapple
- Avocado
- Cherries
- Kiwi
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Mango
- Plums
- Papaya
- Watermelon