Herbal Arthritis Treatments

Arthritis comes in various forms; however, it is invariably painful. The standard medical strategy is to take some sort of pain medicine (usually non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NASDs) that might bring about a number of side effects, including stomach discomfort. Thankfully, there are a few natural, organic strategies to arthritis pain managing. Here are some of them.

White Willow

Willow bark – in particular the white willow – has been used to alleviate pain and inflammation for decades, even hundreds of years. It has a substance labeled salicin, which is the foundation for aspirin. White willow can be taken as a tea and in supplement form, preferably with food.

Stinging Nettle

This relentless weed may provide considerable pain relief for arthritis patients. You may use it topically or consume it internally. If you are using it topically, you take advantage of stinging nettles’ sting, putting the plant onto the area of the body that is experiencing arthritis pain.
Cooking and eating stinging nettle (the sting goes away when it’s cooked) like vegetables could also help. Stinging nettles contain significant amounts of the mineral boron, which is said to help the bones and joints retain calcium.

Red Pepper or Capsicum

The heat from red pepper comes from a substance known as capsaicin, and it is this very same compound that helps alleviate arthritis pain. Capsaicin acts as an endorphin trigger – endorphins are the body’s all natural pain medication. If you love spicy foods, add some red pepper to your regular eating plan in the form of hot pepper sauce, or by including ground red pepper to foods.
Red pepper may also be used topically. Red pepper/capsaicin creams can be purchased in many drug stores, but make sure you wash your hands after applying it, or wear gloves when applying. You wouldn’t like to have it in your eyes!

Foods and Spices

There are many food items and spices you can add into your meals for arthritis relief. Here are some of them.

Ginger – Drinking a cup of ginger tea daily has been said to help arthritis pain. It works as an anti-inflammatory, alleviating the discomfort and swelling associated with arthritis.

Turmeric – This yellowish spice is often added to curries, rice pilafs, and other recipes. Its benefits act like the ones from ginger. Turmeric may also be taken in capsules.

Oregano – Along with featuring anti-inflammatory properties, oregano is also reputed to be an antioxidant. Spread it freely on your pizzas, include it with your spaghetti sauce, or blend it directly into meatloaf. Oregano may be added to many Greek and Italian dishes.

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