Natural Relief of Arthritis

Many of you are looking for natural relief of arthritis. An estimated 50 million American adults have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis, reports the Centers for Disease Control. This number is only expected to grow, as the CDC projects an estimated 67 million Americans will be diagnosed with the condition by the year 2030. But with new treatments and complementary therapies emerging all the time, there is little reason for arthritis sufferers to despair.  An active, healthful lifestyle is still possible.

Natural Relief of Arthritis

Many alternative and complementary therapies can benefit the symptoms of arthritis, including swelling, joint pain, stiffness, and redness.

Far infrared heat is beneficial for relieving arthritic pain. When applied to an area of the body, it gently warms the area from the inside out, promoting circulation to help reduce swelling, and the warmth is pain-relieving. Cold therapy, such as using ice or a gel pack, can also be beneficial for reducing swelling.

Utilizing massage therapy can help promote overall relaxation and blood flow to the joints. It also helps to reduce pain and stiffness.

Healthy living habits are also essential when managing pain or any chronic condition.

• Eat whole foods, lean meats and fish, and whole grains.
• Avoid processed foods and limit your sugar intake. 
• Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
• Manage your stress.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

Herbal Remedies for Arthritis Support

Natural herbal remedies are among the many methods for reducing the chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility occurring with arthritis. Whether you choose a single herb or herbal combination formula, you can obtain some of the same benefits prescription drugs offer, without the high cost and risks associated with these medications.

Examples of proven herbs include:

Ginger

This zesty herb that lends its flavor to ale, breads, and hosts of Asian dishes holds valuable medicinal properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that a study following 261 patients with osteoarthritis who received a ginger supplement twice daily found that they experienced less pain and were able to reduce their conventional medications with the use of the herb.

Garlic

The pungent bulb has an unmistakable aromatic essence and flavor. It is more than a bold culinary component, however. Similarly to ginger, garlic has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. It is also shown to have a protective effect against arthritis due to the compound diallyl disulfide, which hinders cartilage-damaging enzymes.

Black Cohosh

Unlike the above herbs, black cohosh is not a food flavoring or cooking herb. However, it does have anti-inflammatory properties and is available in tea form for the treatment of numerous conditions, including arthritis. More recent uses for the herb include reducing menopause symptoms and menstrual irregularities.

Boswelia

This herb is known as indian frankincense and found to help with arthritis pain and inflammation.