Many people have used home remedies for arthritis, either alone or in conjunction with conventional medicine. There are things that have been passed down from generation to generation- some are myths and some actually work.
Taking conventional medication can sometimes give patients unwanted side effects and can be very expensive. Because of this, some people would rather just go the natural route if they can. Different natural remedies seem to work better for some people than others, so don’t give up trying them if the first one doesn’t improve your condition. They are usually safe, simple, inexpensive and readily available, so trying them is virtually risk free.
Try Some of These
Here are some remedies that people have used to help ease joint pain, stiffness or inflammation. There are also countless others, as a quick internet search will reveal.
- Ginger — use powdered, raw or cooked fresh ginger in food, or simmer ginger slices for 15 minutes in boiling water to make tea
- Aromatherapy — inhale the smell of kitchen spices like marjoram, rosemary or peppermint to reduce the stress hormone, cortisol, giving you a reduced awareness of pain. Essential oils work great for this too.
- Apple cider vinegar — add to foods, pour on salads, or put in warm water with lemon and honey
- Warm bath with or without Epsom salt — encourages better blood flow and is anti inflammatory.
- Turmeric — add to foods or take turmeric supplements to reduce inflammation
- Heat or cold — cold helps with swelling and inflammation, heat relaxes muscles and increases blood flow
- Magnets — using therapeutic magnetic necklaces, bracelets or other items
- Meditation — focusing on your breathing can help you relax and ease muscle tension
- Capsaicin — the ingredient that makes gives hot peppers their spiciness can be used as a rub for pain relief
- Yoga — increases flexibility and lowers stress and inflammation
- Herbal supplements — such as boswellia, bromelain, devil’s claw, ginkgo, stinging nettle or thunder god vine
- Chamomile tea — brew a strong batch and apply a tea-soaked cloth to affected joints
- Glucosamine or chondroitin supplements — help provide pain relief and slow the breakdown of cartilage
Of course, the best thing you can do for yourself is eat a nutritious diet and get regular exercise. That helps your body stay healthy, your immune system strong, and your joints mobile. But, along with that, try one of the remedies above or search for some on your own. If you plan to try to take supplements, please consult your doctor before doing so.