How Effective Are Herbs For Arthritis?
The use of herbs for arthritis healing and pain is becoming accepted and popular all over the world. Used since ancient times by Chinese homeopaths, herbs offer many pain relieving and circulatory benefits. Most of these herbs, when combined with a healthy diet and exercise, can alleviate your need for narcotic pain relievers.
Do you wonder what arthritis is? If so, you are not alone. Many people suffer intense pain but do not know that they have arthritis. There are many types of arthritis, two of the main types being Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a painful inflammation or changes in joint tissue. If your condition has been diagnosed as osteoarthritis, herbs can help with circulatory problems and digestion.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the second major form of the disease. This type of arthritis is caused by an autoimmune problem. Inflammation will be very painful and could be deforming. Herbs are also effective for addressing this severe form of arthritis. The herbs used will include those for circulation and digestion as well as herbs for boosting the immune system and herbs that ease inflammation.
Healthy digestion is a very important factor for people who suffer from arthritis. Many times a person with arthritis is unable to digest calcium and minerals from the foods they eat. In these cases, herbalists use enzymes to help with digestion. These enzymes can be digested before your meal and will help your body absorb the calcium and minerals it needs. An herbal concoction of bitters works well to help with digestion. Several different herbs are combined with bitters, which is an alcohol derivative.
Magnesium is an extremely important mineral for arthritis. This mineral is one that cannot be absorbed by many people with the disease. However, there are herbs for arthritis that can help your body absorb magnesium. Nettles, fennel, sage and marjoram, along with parsley and alfalfa, can be utilized by arthritis suffers. These herbs will help relieve muscle cramps caused by a lack of magnesium in your system.
Silica can be taken to improve calcium absorption and it will help improve bone density. Horse tail is a great source of silica and is used in many arthritis preparations.
There are also several good topical herbs for arthritis pain relief. The best is also the strangest and is usually performed by an herbalist. The technique, called moxabustion, involves the use of the mugwort root. Herbalists grind this herb into a powder and roll it in paper much like a cigarette. One end of the rolled herb is lit. After the lit end turns red the ground mugwort root will be passed back and forth very close to the affected area. The area will redden and the herbalist will move to another spot.
As mentioned, this technique is most often performed by an experienced professional. Although Moxa sticks can be found in many Chinese stores you should never attempt this treatment by yourself.
Herbs for arthritis can be extremely helpful in treatment and stabilization of the disease. Discussing your options with your doctor will help you find the best way to reduce the pain and gain control of your joints.
Learn more: Traditional Chinese Medicine: Herbs for Arthritis - Why choose it?
Video Chinese herbs treat rheumatoid arthritis | Extract and synthesize | Releasing pain from illness
Alterative herbs help cleanse metabolic waste products and toxins from our body, and are a staple of herbal medicine. Alteratives work by supporting the natural cleansing functions of the kidneys, large intestines, increase blood flow and aid lymph drainage. Allowing these wastes and toxins to circulate throughout the body is a cause of inflammation and, when the body is attempting to stem inflammation, it’s not able to do much else in order to support our health. Here are a few herbs to help stem inflammation and aid the body in its detoxing efforts. (Note: these herbs are helpful for anyone with illness—not just arthritis or other inflammatory conditions).
One of the greatest things you can do for pain, joint or otherwise, is increase your intake of essential fatty acids. Burdock contains fatty oils which (along with its sterols and tannins) contribute to burdock’s reputation as an anti-inflammatory. You can eat burdock root in stir-fries (very popular in Asian cuisine, by the way), make a decoction (To do so: chop 2 tablespoons of fresh burdock root—if you do not have the fresh root available you may use 2 teaspoons of dried root as an alternative. Add the root to the boiling water and allow to simmer for 10 minutes then turn off the heat. Strain and drink while still warm—3-4 cups a day is ideal), or take the herb in capsule form (follow dosage directions, but remember, these are for a 150lb adult—calculate the appropriate dose using your own weight).
Flaxseed is one of the best vegan sources of Omega-3 (ALA), which is so important to a strong immune system and for fighting inflammation (the vegan bit is important because animal fats often lead to inflammation in arthritis sufferers). Try to include two tablespoons of flaxseeds or flaxseed oil in your daily diet. Note: do not heat or cook seeds or oil. Also, if you suffer from a digestive condition such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), use the oil rather than the seeds—they could irritate your condition.
Turmeric is an extremely effective anti-inflammatory herb, and thus an effective pain reliever. It contains at least two chemicals (curcumin and curcuminoids) which decrease inflammation (and are very much like the oft-prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs). Incidentally, this anti-inflammatory effect is also why turmeric is often recommended for treatment of cancer, cataracts and Alzheimer’s.
While you can totally add this spice to your daily diet, you will need to take turmeric in supplement form in order to experience the full medicinal benefits. When cooking, try adding black pepper or dried ginger to help activate turmeric. The herb can also be applied topically to relieve pain.
Yup. If you’ve read my other articles, then you know that nettles is an herb with mad-skills incredible for pretty much anything. Nettles are insanely good for you, containing protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, beta-carotene, along with vitamins A,C, D, and B complex, all in a form that is easy for the body to use.
Stinging nettle is a wicked herb for those with all types of arthritis and gout. Its anti-inflammatory amazing-ness combined with its minerals (boron, calcium, magnesium and silicon) ease pain while helping to build strong bones. While NSAIDs are often a necessary evil for most with arthritis, using nettle may help you to decrease the amount you need to take. (Herbalists’ disclaimer: ALWAYS discuss herbal supplementation and prescription decreases with your physician). Nettle leaf tea (a cup or more daily) relieves and prevents water retention and inflammation and nourishes the kidneys and adrenals.
A side note: many arthritis sufferers have found that striking the inflamed joint with a fresh cutting from a nettle plant helps relieve joint pain (the stinging part of the nettles draws blood to the joint, relieving pain and inflammation). I know this sounds like a nutty treatment, but the brave amongst you can give it a try.
Licorice acts much like your body's own natural corticosteroids (which reduce inflammation). Licorice decreases free radicals at the site of inflammation and inhibits the enzyme production that's involved in the inflammatory process. Glycyrrhizin is the component in licorice which blocks and relieves inflammation. It also supports the body's release of cortisol (which suppresses the immune system, easing the pain and occurrence of arthritis), but it also inhibits some of the side effects of cortisol (such as adrenal fatigue and anxiety). Use in supplement form or as a tea.
Please note: Licorice is not a good remedy for those with blood pressure issues. People who regularly take large amounts of licorice (20 grams/day or more) may experience serious side effects such as headache, high blood pressure, and heart problems. If you already have high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, or low potassium (hypokalemia), please avoid the herb altogether.
All in all, aside from herbal protocols, the best treatment for arthritis is a diet filled with fresh produce, essential fatty acids, and fiber (and reducing or eliminating foods that cause an inflammatory response such as fried foods, animal fats, dairy, and anything else which might cause an allergy sensitivity). Yoga (especially Yin Yoga) and gentle stretching go a long way toward arthritis prevention and pain relief by opening joints, and encouraging the distribution of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints.
What is Arthritis?
Do you wonder what arthritis is? If so, you are not alone. Many people suffer intense pain but do not know that they have arthritis. There are many types of arthritis, two of the main types being Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a painful inflammation or changes in joint tissue. If your condition has been diagnosed as osteoarthritis, herbs can help with circulatory problems and digestion.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the second major form of the disease. This type of arthritis is caused by an autoimmune problem. Inflammation will be very painful and could be deforming. Herbs are also effective for addressing this severe form of arthritis. The herbs used will include those for circulation and digestion as well as herbs for boosting the immune system and herbs that ease inflammation.
Herbs for Digestion
Healthy digestion is a very important factor for people who suffer from arthritis. Many times a person with arthritis is unable to digest calcium and minerals from the foods they eat. In these cases, herbalists use enzymes to help with digestion. These enzymes can be digested before your meal and will help your body absorb the calcium and minerals it needs. An herbal concoction of bitters works well to help with digestion. Several different herbs are combined with bitters, which is an alcohol derivative.
Magnesium is an extremely important mineral for arthritis. This mineral is one that cannot be absorbed by many people with the disease. However, there are herbs for arthritis that can help your body absorb magnesium. Nettles, fennel, sage and marjoram, along with parsley and alfalfa, can be utilized by arthritis suffers. These herbs will help relieve muscle cramps caused by a lack of magnesium in your system.
Silica can be taken to improve calcium absorption and it will help improve bone density. Horse tail is a great source of silica and is used in many arthritis preparations.
Topical Herbs for Arthritis
There are also several good topical herbs for arthritis pain relief. The best is also the strangest and is usually performed by an herbalist. The technique, called moxabustion, involves the use of the mugwort root. Herbalists grind this herb into a powder and roll it in paper much like a cigarette. One end of the rolled herb is lit. After the lit end turns red the ground mugwort root will be passed back and forth very close to the affected area. The area will redden and the herbalist will move to another spot.
As mentioned, this technique is most often performed by an experienced professional. Although Moxa sticks can be found in many Chinese stores you should never attempt this treatment by yourself.
Herbs for arthritis can be extremely helpful in treatment and stabilization of the disease. Discussing your options with your doctor will help you find the best way to reduce the pain and gain control of your joints.
Learn more: Traditional Chinese Medicine: Herbs for Arthritis - Why choose it?
Video Chinese herbs treat rheumatoid arthritis | Extract and synthesize | Releasing pain from illness
5 Herbs for Arthritis & Joint Pain
1. Burdock Root (Arctium lappa or Arcticum minus):
One of the greatest things you can do for pain, joint or otherwise, is increase your intake of essential fatty acids. Burdock contains fatty oils which (along with its sterols and tannins) contribute to burdock’s reputation as an anti-inflammatory. You can eat burdock root in stir-fries (very popular in Asian cuisine, by the way), make a decoction (To do so: chop 2 tablespoons of fresh burdock root—if you do not have the fresh root available you may use 2 teaspoons of dried root as an alternative. Add the root to the boiling water and allow to simmer for 10 minutes then turn off the heat. Strain and drink while still warm—3-4 cups a day is ideal), or take the herb in capsule form (follow dosage directions, but remember, these are for a 150lb adult—calculate the appropriate dose using your own weight).
2. Flax ( Linum usitatissimum):
Flaxseed is one of the best vegan sources of Omega-3 (ALA), which is so important to a strong immune system and for fighting inflammation (the vegan bit is important because animal fats often lead to inflammation in arthritis sufferers). Try to include two tablespoons of flaxseeds or flaxseed oil in your daily diet. Note: do not heat or cook seeds or oil. Also, if you suffer from a digestive condition such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), use the oil rather than the seeds—they could irritate your condition.
3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa):
Turmeric is an extremely effective anti-inflammatory herb, and thus an effective pain reliever. It contains at least two chemicals (curcumin and curcuminoids) which decrease inflammation (and are very much like the oft-prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs). Incidentally, this anti-inflammatory effect is also why turmeric is often recommended for treatment of cancer, cataracts and Alzheimer’s.
While you can totally add this spice to your daily diet, you will need to take turmeric in supplement form in order to experience the full medicinal benefits. When cooking, try adding black pepper or dried ginger to help activate turmeric. The herb can also be applied topically to relieve pain.
4. Nettles (Urtica dioica):
Yup. If you’ve read my other articles, then you know that nettles is an herb with mad-skills incredible for pretty much anything. Nettles are insanely good for you, containing protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, beta-carotene, along with vitamins A,C, D, and B complex, all in a form that is easy for the body to use.
Stinging nettle is a wicked herb for those with all types of arthritis and gout. Its anti-inflammatory amazing-ness combined with its minerals (boron, calcium, magnesium and silicon) ease pain while helping to build strong bones. While NSAIDs are often a necessary evil for most with arthritis, using nettle may help you to decrease the amount you need to take. (Herbalists’ disclaimer: ALWAYS discuss herbal supplementation and prescription decreases with your physician). Nettle leaf tea (a cup or more daily) relieves and prevents water retention and inflammation and nourishes the kidneys and adrenals.
A side note: many arthritis sufferers have found that striking the inflamed joint with a fresh cutting from a nettle plant helps relieve joint pain (the stinging part of the nettles draws blood to the joint, relieving pain and inflammation). I know this sounds like a nutty treatment, but the brave amongst you can give it a try.
5. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra):
Licorice acts much like your body's own natural corticosteroids (which reduce inflammation). Licorice decreases free radicals at the site of inflammation and inhibits the enzyme production that's involved in the inflammatory process. Glycyrrhizin is the component in licorice which blocks and relieves inflammation. It also supports the body's release of cortisol (which suppresses the immune system, easing the pain and occurrence of arthritis), but it also inhibits some of the side effects of cortisol (such as adrenal fatigue and anxiety). Use in supplement form or as a tea.
Please note: Licorice is not a good remedy for those with blood pressure issues. People who regularly take large amounts of licorice (20 grams/day or more) may experience serious side effects such as headache, high blood pressure, and heart problems. If you already have high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, or low potassium (hypokalemia), please avoid the herb altogether.
All in all, aside from herbal protocols, the best treatment for arthritis is a diet filled with fresh produce, essential fatty acids, and fiber (and reducing or eliminating foods that cause an inflammatory response such as fried foods, animal fats, dairy, and anything else which might cause an allergy sensitivity). Yoga (especially Yin Yoga) and gentle stretching go a long way toward arthritis prevention and pain relief by opening joints, and encouraging the distribution of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints.
Get 21 Email instructions for healing arthritis!
Treatment of arthritis by step in 21 days.
The healing program for all types of arthritis according to Chinese medicine - synthesized by 48 studies of arthritis healing, including:
Treatment of arthritis by step in 21 days.
The healing program for all types of arthritis according to Chinese medicine - synthesized by 48 studies of arthritis healing, including:
- 47 Western scientific research
- Herbal formula of Traditional Chinese Medicine
-----> Join this program: Heal all types of arthritis in 21 days <-----
Review and comment on this program: ==> Chinese Medicine For Arthritis
Post a Comment