Arthritis

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints and cartilage and can be present in any body part. Arthritis can cause chronic pain and discomfort from inflammation of the joints. Arthritis makes sufferers feel almost crippled from lack of mobility and flexibility, and simple everyday tasks can be painful. 

Osteoarthritis occurs with age when the cartilage in the joints starts to break down. It happens most often in areas subjected to repetitive movements and activities that place undue stress on specific joints but also tends to form in areas injured earlier in life. The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness with movement.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects people of all ages and is thought to be an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its bone and cartilage. The primary symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are fatigue, low-grade fevers, and pain and swelling of the joints, ultimately resulting in swollen, tender joints that become deformed. Many people with rheumatoid arthritis develop depression due to painful long-term limitations.

Although modern medicine believes arthritis to be incurable and treatments only mask the symptoms of arthritis, some home remedies also help to reduce pain and inflammation and relieve general discomfort.

Interesting Fact

A study shows that drinkers are less likely to develop several types of arthritis. However, Doctors caution people not to begin drinking or increase alcohol consumption to reduce arthritis risk. This study indicated that drinkers were up to 73 percent less likely to develop arthritis.

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Arthritis

Here are some simple ways to help reduce arthritis symptoms and flare-ups.

Glucosamine Sulfate and Glucosamine Chondroitin

Glucosamine is thought to be a good option for pain relief for those who cannot take NSAIDs. Glucosamine and chondroitin are two of the most popular supplements for arthritis. They're components of the cartilage itself which is the substance that cushions the joints.

1500 milligrams of glucosamine sulfate and 1200 milligrams of glucosamine chondroitin daily have proven to be natural cures for arthritis by helping to reduce pain and inflammation in affected cartilage.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is mentioned frequently as a home remedy. When it comes to the pain associated with many different forms of arthritis, castor oil can be a lifesaver.

Castor oil's anti-inflammatory properties are helpful when used as a massage oil for arthritic joints and sore and inflamed muscles. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which is inflammatory and is considered a safe remedy for arthritis pain.

Individuals should rub castor oil over the affected muscles or joints to relieve pain and inflammation quickly.

Ginger

Ginger is a natural way of dealing with the pain and inflammation associated with arthritic conditions. Fresh ginger can be added to many dishes to reap the benefits. Mix powdered ginger with water and drink as tea (2 tsp Ginger to 1 cup boiling water). Ginger can also be applied topically in the form of ginger oil. 

Garlic

Garlic helps limit the symptoms associated with arthritis. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that are effective against arthritis pain and inflammation. Fresh garlic can be added to many savory dishes.

Shea Extract

Shea nut extract may help arthritis. A study found that a compound from the seed of the African Shea Tree called the Vitellaria paradox decreased inflammation and collagen destruction in people with arthritis.

Anti-Inflammatory Herbs

Herbs like yucca, devil's claw, turmeric, sea cucumber, and alfalfa, used historically by Native American healers, are anti-inflammatory and effective for relieving some symptoms of arthritis.

Diet and Exercise

Moderate, low joint impact exercise, lots of water, restricting sugar and carbonated beverages, and plenty of rest are natural ways to control the pain of arthritis.

Other alternative home cures and natural remedies include magnet therapy, which is reported to aid in circulation and oxygenation, promote healing, and interrupt the brain's pain signal. Detoxification is said to be a significant factor in the field of home remedies for arthritis.