Helpful Herbs for Arthritis
Arthritis is a common yet
painful condition, characterized by inflammation of joints. It can lead to
acute, pain and soreness in joints, which can lead to disruption in day to day
activities, and even make patients bedridden in extreme cases. Though medical intervention
and treatment is deemed necessary for relief from this acute condition, one can
seek relief in the form of some natural herbal remedies, which have been found
effective for this purpose.
Listed below are 10 herbs for arthritis:
1. Aloe Vera
One
of the most easily available herbs, which can be used for treating arthritis in
an effective manner, is aloe
vera. The medicinal plant is known to have anti inflammatory
properties, which makes it useful in combating inflammatory condition such as
arthritis. Consumption of aloe vera juice or massage with aloe vera gel can
provide relief from soreness of joints.
2. Boswellia
Boswellia is used in the
form of the gum secreted by the boswellia tree, which contains Boswellic acid,
a compound known for its anti inflammatory action. This makes it useful for
treating arthritis, including its symptoms of stiffness and joint pains. The
herb also curbs leukotrienes, the compound which causes this disease by
attacking healthy joints.
3. Giloy
(Tinospora Cordifolia)
This medicinal herb has a
long list of curative properties, such as anti arthritic, anti oxidant and anti
inflammatory properties. It helps to combat conditions such as arthritis, gout
and muscular spasms. Additionally, it has the ability to combat fatigue and
stress.
4.
Turmeric/Curcuma Longa
The common Indian spice has
been revered as a traditional remedy for joint and muscular pains. It has both
anti biotic and anti inflammatory properties, which come from the potent
compound called curcumin, found in it. Arthritic patients can benefit from this
compound to a great extent, as it can relieve swelling and stiffness of the
joints.
5. Ginger
Another common herb, which
is a miracle healer for arthritis is ginger. Some studies have linked
consumption of ginger with relief from swelling of the joints. The compounds
found in this strongly flavored herb, not only give it the taste and aroma, but
also have anti inflammatory action.
6.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is another widely
used herb, which can help combat arthritis. It can be used either as oral
supplements or as topical oil, the latter one being more effective for
treatment of arthritis. The pain and swelling characteristic to this condition
can be reduced because of tannins, the compounds which occur naturally in the
leaves of this plant.
7. Green Tea
The next name on the list of
10 herbs for arthritis is green tea. One of the most widely used beverages in
the world, green tea is highly appreciated on account of its health benefits.
It has anti inflammatory action, enabling it to counter arthritis in an
effective manner.
8.
Guggul/Commiphora Mukkul
Guggul refers to a resin
secreted by the stem of this plant, which has the ability to remove the toxins
from the body and in this process, counter inflammation and related disorders
like arthritis.
9.
Nirgundi/Vitex Negundo
This herb is loaded with
vitamin C, which makes it both anti inflammatory as well as anti oxidant in
nature. As a result, it can be used for treating arthritis by reducing swelling
and pain. Additionally, it is useful for healing bone fractures and sciatica.
10. Willow
Bark
Another traditional herb,
which has been used since ages to reduce inflammation, is willow bark, which
can be used in the form of tea or tablet. It is particularly useful to reduce
pain caused by arthritis, in areas such as knee, neck, back and hips.
Despite the fact that pain
killers are more effective for quick relief, it is better to rely on herbal
remedies to some extent as they seldom have any serious side effects. Still,
you should consult your physician before using these herbs on regular basis.
Also, pregnant women, lactating mothers and people taking regular medications
should avoid these herbs
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