Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disease characterized by a breakdown of the cartilage and synovial membrane of the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. The conventional treatment includes medication, physical therapy and possibly surgery. The holistic approach includes a modified diet and the use of certain herbs that can alleviate pain and inflammation.
Bromelain
Bromelain is the natural digestive enzyme in fresh pineapple that breaks down proteins. It's also a natural anti-inflammatory. Herbalists use bromelain tablets to treat inflammation and injuries. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide, it's beneficial for arthritis and reduces swelling, especially after surgery. It can be juiced, eaten fresh or even taken in capsule or tablet form.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is an herb indigenous to Africa. Natives use the herb to treat pain and make a topical ointment from it to heal sores, boils and other skin problems. Herbalists today use devil's claw for degenerative joint diseases such as arthritis, and for low back pain. The University of Maryland Medical Center says scientific evidence shows that devil's claw root can help relieve pain and inflammation in people with arthritis and other pain disorders. It's found in capsule or tincture form.
Ginger
Ginger is a common culinary spice from India and Eastern Asia. It has also been used in Indian as well as traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It's a versatile herb used to treat a variety of conditions, including indigestion, nausea, headaches, motion sickness, morning sickness, dizziness and diarrhea. It's also a natural anti-inflammatory and has been used to treat arthritis. It can be taken as a tea or in capsule form.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice used in Indian dishes. It gives curry its golden color. It's also a natural anti-inflammatory that has been used by herbalists to treat arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. According to the University of Maryland, the medicinal component of turmeric, curcumin, reduces inflammation by lowering levels of two inflammatory enzymes in the body and stops platelets from clumping together to form blood clots.
White Willow Bark
White willow bark is a well-known ancient herbal remedy for pain. It's the plant originally used to make aspirin. Herbalists have used white willow bark to treat low back pain, osteoarthritis, headache and inflammatory conditions such as bursitis and tendinitis. It has antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-pyretic (fever reducing) and immune-boosting properties. It can be taken the same as aspirin. And, although it may take longer to take effect, pain relief from white willow bark lasts longer than over-the-counter salicylic acid.
