Arthritis is an inflammation of the bone and joint, which triggers severe aches and pain. It is common in people as they advance in age and could worsen over time if not addressed.
While there are different types of arthritis, one thing is common to them all – pain and inflammation. However, with some natural remedies, one can reduce the symptoms of arthritis if used alongside other treatments.
Herbs, significantly those rich in anti-inflammatory conditions, help relieve the pain that characterizes arthritis. This article will explore several natural remedies one can use to manage arthritis and its symptoms.
Try CBD for Arthritis
Cannabis and its derivatives can also help in relieving arthritis pain. CBD, one of the derivatives of cannabis, features a series of anti-inflammatory properties that can ease arthritis pain.
Based on research, CBD can regulate receptors that support anandamide levels in the body – a special type of endocannabinoid. The presence of CBD in the body influences the response of these receptors to whatever signal is transmitted to them.
Considering that CBD is a natural pain killer, arthritis patients will find it incredibly helpful. Moreover, with numerous CBD brands available, you can get cheap cannabis online or in stores.
Red Pepper (Capsicum)
While red pepper triggers pain on the tongue, it can inhibit various pain receptors scattered throughout the body. Capsaicin is the chemical in charge of pain relief in red pepper, which helps release endorphins that soothe the body. In addition, there are aspirin-like compounds in red pepper called salicylates.
One can combine red pepper with water to make a tea and sip. However, consider adding red pepper as a spice to various dishes. Simply biting into hot pepper unleashes the painkiller to relieve arthritis.
Red pepper contains compounds that can relieve arthritis when applied to the skin. When capsaicin cream is used directly on the skin, it can ease arthritis pain significantly. Based on one study, using capsaicin cream reduced RA pain significantly – more than half, while Osteoarthritis got reduced by about 33%.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a common spice used to add color and flavor to meals. The herb also finds application in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for various conditions, including arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders.
Thanks to their analgesic properties, the anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric and curcumin also soothe the pain. This is based on 2016 research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food.
One can use turmeric in various ways by adding it to stews, soups, curry dishes, etc. A study in the International Journal of Food Sciences shows that combining turmeric with black pepper can improve its pain-relieving properties.
Turmeric has over 100 active components, alongside other special substances in the oil called turmerone. Curcumin is the most active compound, and it is a powerful natural and anti-inflammatory substance. This compound fights arthritis by preventing joint inflammation, swelling, joint destruction, etc.
Meditation
Relaxation, which comes from meditation, can also help relieve arthritis pain. One can meditate in various ways, and a simple method is to be guided by a random sound with no specific meaning. You need to sit or lie in a comfortable spot with your eyes closed and follow or repeat the sound in your mind.
Guided meditation is another approach in which one will follow a sound, which will act as a direction to guide someone towards a meditative journey. There are guided meditation tutorials available on the internet, phone apps, and DVDs. Doing this can provide relaxation and distraction from the pain.
Consider Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that can help reduce arthritis. Many people have used it over the years, and it has proven incredibly helpful in relieving pain and relaxing the body.
The strategy aims to correct the energy imbalance that practitioners believe is responsible for arthritis pain. It involves using special needles placed at various pressure points in the body, stimulating energy in multiple pathways in the body.
Studies reveal that acupuncture can bring down body chemicals responsible for inflammation. Not only will it reduce arthritis, but it also reduces various accompanying pain. Based on another study involving patients with rheumatoid arthritis, they all expressed relief from arthritis without side effects. However, ensure to partner with a rheumatologist with experience working with arthritis patients.
Stretch
The human body is designed primarily for movement, not to be stationed in a place for too long. Interestingly, remaining in a single spot due to excessive pain might compound the pain.
This is where simple and gentle stretch comes in to help keep up with the mobility and movement range. Ensure you work with your physician or physiotherapist, as they can suggest exercises and stretches that fit your specific situation.
Black Pepper
Black pepper is another staple on various dining tables, adding flavor to different meals worldwide. Unknown to many, it contains piperine – the active compound with a series of health benefits. Based on research, black pepper has antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gastro-protective capacities.
Another 2016 study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology revealed that when piperic acid comes with anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces swelling alongside cytokine production in animals. Not only that, another research showed that administration of piperine relieved inflammation alongside various symptoms of arthritis in test subjects.
Conclusion
Arthritis pain does not have to make your life miserable. You can engage various natural substances to restore your health and enjoy relief. This article has explored several natural remedies one can use to relieve arthritis.