Five natural remedies for arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that causes inflammation, stiffness and pain of the joints.

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There are two types (Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis) and both can be very debilitating – causing a great deal of discomfort and pain.

Unfortunately there is no cure, but there are various medical treatments that can help to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for sufferers.

There is also a range of complementary therapies and natural remedies for arthritis, which are becoming increasingly popular for easing pain and aiding self-care.

If you have arthritis, we recommend the following natural remedies to improve your well-being and ease the effects of arthritis on your health:

Acupuncture for arthritis 

This ancient Chinese medicine is considered one of the most effective complementary therapies for arthritis care and pain relief. Using a whole-body approach, acupuncture practitioners assess for areas of pain and tension, then insert thin needles into specific meridian points on the body. This is to unblock energy pathways and restore balance to the body.

Meditation 

Practising meditation and relaxation techniques will not only help to relieve stress (which can exacerbate arthritis pain), but can make it easier for you to cope with symptoms. Studies have shown that mindfulness meditation can be helpful for people with painful joints.

Cook with turmeric 

Turmeric is a yellow spice often used in Indian dishes like curry. It contains a chemical called curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore including turmeric in your dishes may be a good step towards better managing your arthritis pain.

Get a massage 

There are many different types of massage, but they are all designed to restore mobility and ease pain and tension in the musculoskeletal system. According to the Arthritis Foundation, regular massaging of arthritic joints can make a significant difference to pain and stiffness. It can also improve range of motion and boost overall well-being.

Herbal remedies

Many people try herbal remedies as a form of pain relief for arthritis. There are various herbs that are considered to be beneficial – most notably due to their anti-inflammatory properties. These include aloe vera, boswellia, eucalyptus and ginger. Drinking green tea on a regular basis may also help to ease swelling and pain of arthritic joints.

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Written by Tamara Marshall
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Written by Tamara Marshall
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