Arthritis is a debilitating condition that may cause depression, isolation and crippling deformities if not properly managed. Many people prefer to use home remedies to treat their arthritis symptoms, saving money on doctor's visits and prescriptions. Many home and folk remedies have been found to relieve pain and stiffness, reduce inflammation and swelling in some cases, give certain people back their full range of motion.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Two well-known supplements, glucosamine and chondroitin are recommended by YourOrthopaedicConneciton.com for the treatment of arthritis pain. Together they reduce tenderness and increase mobility. They are made from crushed shellfish so beware if you have shellfish allergies.
Fish Oil or Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Lots of positive effects have been seen from consuming Omega 3 fatty acids, explains the Arthritis Alternative website. Fish oil, which contains Omega 3 fatty acids, offers pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects for knee pain. Use pharmaceutical-grade fish oil, which has impurities removed. You'll find it at local pharmacies.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle is an old-timers' remedy for arthritis pain. The dried herb may be consumed as a tea using the leaves and stems, suggests The University of Maryland Medical Center. Make a tea by mixing 1 tablespoon of nettle tea leaves in 1 cup of boiling water allowing it to steep for 15 minutes. Drink three to four cups a day for arthritis relief. Add a dollop of raw honey to sweeten. This tea is also good chilled and taken in summer iced. If you prefer, use stinging nettle oral fluid extract, available at health food stores. The recommended dose is 1.5 ml of the root extract or 2.5 ml of the leaf extract consumed three times per day.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is topical treatment for reducing the pain of arthritis and is known to be effective in relieving swelling and inflammation. Capsaisin is an ointment made from hot chili peppers according to DermNetNZ and is available in pharmacies.
Tumeric
A powerful Ayurvedic herb tumeric offers relief from arthritis pain, stiffness and swelling in the knees and throughout the body, reports Holistic Online. Its active ingredient curcumin is reported to have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as effective as those of cortisone, for certain kinds of pain. The suggested dose is 400 to 600 mg three times a day.
