Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease resulting from the wear and tear of using the joints every day state experts at the Mayo Clinic. Osteoarthritis can lead to pain, tenderness, swelling and the decreased function of joints. The disease progressively worsens over time. There are a variety of natural herbs that a person can include as part of her daily regimen that can help alleviate discomfort.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a herb which contains a powerful component known as curcumin. Curcumin is rich in both Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, making it an overall body cleanser. Omega-6 fatty acids, cites the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), contain anti-inflammatory properties which can ease osteoarthritis symptoms involving inflammation and pain. This serving size provides a respectable 114 milligrams of Omega-6 fatty acids. According to Nutrition Data, a 1 tbsp. serving of turmeric gives an inflammation level rating of 1553. This level is considered strongly anti-inflammatory. A mixture of 1/2 tsp. of turmeric powder and 1 cup warm water, taken twice daily, can help with osteoarthritis symptoms states Ayurvedic physician Sudhir Kumar, MD. You can find turmeric in your grocery store's spice section. It also can be found in the nutritional supplement section of a department store.
Ginger
Ginger is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. One tbsp. of powdered ginger rates an impressive 1447 on the inflammation level scale cites Nutrition Data. This category is considered strongly anti-inflammatory. The same serving portion of ginger contains 53 milligrams of Omega-6 fatty acids. According to the USDA, these fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the body. Either ingesting ginger or using it as a paste can help your osteoarthritis. You can make a joint pain relieving paste out of sesame oil and garlic states the Ayurveda Marketplace. If you are on blood thinning medications, however, the Mayo Clinic advises checking with a physician prior to using ginger. Ginger may interfere with these medications.
Guggula
According to Ayurvedic Siet Solutions, the popular Ayurvedic herb known as guggula can help with the symptoms of osteoarthritis. This herb contains natural cleansing properties that can remove toxins and fats from the body. The herb contains fracture- healing properties which can speed up the recuperation rate from osteoporosis bone injuries you may experience cites Ayurvedic physician Miguel Hernando Córdova, MD. Toxins are the reason that a person has osteoarthritis cites the the Mayo Clinic. Guggula can be made into a paste and applied to the affected area. Or, Ayurvedia-Herbal-Remedy recommends mixing 1/2 tsp. with warm water and drinking the mixture twice daily after meals.
Shallaki
Shallaki (also known as boswelia serrata) is a healing Ayurveda herb which has been shown to reduce joint pain cites Ayurvedic Diet Solutions. This herb may also help to rebuild the cartilages surrounding the joints. This herb is more potent than the glucosamines. Shallaki contains active anti-inflammatory components that help to prevent inflammatory white cells from infiltrating damaged tissue. Shallaki can also improve the blood circulation to the joints. Shallaki is known to fortify all systems in the body.
References
- USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference; USDA; 2008
- Nutrition Data
- Mayo Clinic
