Joint pain from arthritis, especially in the knees, limits activities for many people who suffer from this crippling condition. People who experience side effects from common over-the-counter and prescription medications that alleviate swelling, stiffness and inflammation of the knees may want to try several alternative home remedies that can be purchased at any grocery or health food store.
How to Deal With Arthritis in the Knee
Step 1
Make stinging nettle tea using the dried leaves and stems of the plant to relieve joint pain, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center. Combine 1 tbsp. dried nettle tea leaves in 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 15 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired. Consume three to four cups a day for arthritis relief. Take care when handling the nettle plant because touching it can cause a rash.
Step 2
Use stinging nettle extract to lessen arthritis pain in your knees. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking the oral fluid extract. The adult dose for the root extract is 1.5 mL three to four times a day. If you prefer, use the leaf extract, taking 2 to 5 mL three times a day.
Step 3
Add fish oils to your diet. ArthritisAlternative.com discusses the positive effects of fish oils rich in Omega 3 for use as an anti-inflammatory treatment for arthritis joint pain. Rheumatoid arthritis patients have reported significant symptom relief from including fish oils in their diet along with other arthritis treatments. ArthritisAlternative.com recommends using only pharmaceutical-grade fish oils, which have fewer impurities and may offer long-term benefits lessening the need for medications.
Step 4
Add turmeric to your daily regimen for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness in the knees. HerbalRemediesWorld.com notes that turmeric is known as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It is believed that turmeric relieves joint pain, stiffness and swelling, and enhances mobility. One of the primary spices used in curries, turmeric brings relief to those suffering from joint pain related to arthritis, tendinitis and autoimmune diseases such as lupus. The recommended dose is 400 to 600 mg three times a day. Turmeric is available in capsules or as a spice that can be added to foods such as curry.
Step 5
Exercise daily and gently for pain relief from arthritis in the knees. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends regular exercise to increase flexibility and range of motion, and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint. Consult with your doctor for suggestions that are best for you.
Tips and Warnings
- If using stinging nettle, either use the tea or the extract, but not both at the same time. You can use stinging nettle tea or extract and turmeric and fish oils at the same time for added relief.
- The suggestions offered here are for educational purposes and are not meant to replace medical advice.
Things You'll Need
- Dried stinging nettle leaves, stems
- Stinging nettle extract
- Turmeric
- Fish oils high in Omega 3
