Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, follows a holistic approach to health and is one of the oldest healing modalities, being more than 5,000 years old. The main precept of Ayurveda is to promote health through balance of body, mind and consciousness by using herbs and proper dietary and lifestyle choices. Many herbs can have side effects, regardless of the healing modality being used. Always consult a health practitioner before starting treatment for rheumatoid arthritis with herbs.
Boswellia Serrata
Boswellia serrata is one of the traditional herbs used in Ayurveda for treating rheumatoid arthritis, or RA. It is known as an anti-inflammatory and has shown mixed results in studies pertaining to its effectiveness, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems. The recommended dose is 400mg to 800mg, three times daily. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for more detailed directions and dosing.
Ginger
Ginger is another herb used for the treatment of arthritis both in Ayurveda and in the west. Ginger may help reduce inflammation and pain in swollen joints. It is often combined with turmeric, boswellia, and ashwagandha, another herb used in Ayurveda for inflammation, says the University of Michigan Health Systems. Research indicates this combination is somewhat more effective than placebo for treatment of RA. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that ginger functions as a Cox-2 inhibiter. Cox-2 is a chemical that causes pain and inflammation throughout the body. Ginger can thin the blood and should not be taken by people on blood-thinning medicines unless under the supervision of a health practitioner.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is known to contain a natural anti-inflammatory compound, similar to those found in steroids, which may help to reduce swelling, inflammation and pain of rheumatoid arthritis, according to Holistic Online. A tea made from a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger in a cup of boiling water, mixed with 2 tsp. castor oil, may help to relieve RA symptoms. Drink the tea before bedtime. The castor oil may cause some laxative effects.
Detoxification Diet
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered in Ayurveda to be the Pitta type of arthritis, with inflammation and hot, red joints, says Holistic Online. One of the general treatments is to remove toxins from the system through a detoxification diet. A fast consisting of only vegetables, juices, spices and herbs is eaten for three to five days or longer. The fast is ended when the individual experiences a feeling of lightness, a return of appetite and no coating or discoloration on the tongue. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for detailed instructions.
