Q: Is there a home cure for arthritis or is it uncontrollable? Do home remedies, if they actually exist, rid the body of arthritis or just the pain?
A: Arthritis is defined as inflammation of one or more of the joints of the body. There are approximately 100 forms of arthritis. Those types most common include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a breakdown of the tissue at the ends of bones where they form a joint. It is often referred to as wear-and-tear damage of the cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that affects joint linings that become swollen and inflamed.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that obesity is a leading cause of arthritis, with almost 66% of all adults so diagnosed being obese. Those at an increased risk for developing any form of arthritis include having a previous joint injury from such things as a sports accident, being older, having a family history, and obesity. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than are men, while men are more likely to suffer from gout which is yet another form of arthritis.
On the home front, the herb turmeric used in cooking is purported to be helpful in treating the symptoms of arthritis. According to a research study conducted by Science Daily, turmeric inhibits NF-KB which is responsible for causing a person’s genes to aggravate the symptoms of arthritis. The product is available for adding to foods or in capsule form, with 500-600 mg daily recommended. The daily requirement should be divided into three equal doses. Of note, it should be avoided for those individuals taking an anticoagulant.
Ginger root is also considered helpful in reducing prostaglandins ( the chemicals responsible for triggering inflammation). According to MSNBC health, ginger is one of the best foods to fight arthritis. It is available in capsules or in its raw form from your local grocer store. It, too, should be avoided completely by those individuals on an anticoagulant.
Licorice, in moderation, helps block inflammation receptors. It is important to remember that the long-term use of licorice can elevate an individuals blood pressure dramatically; however, two capsules daily might be sufficient and within normal limits.
Alfalfa consumed in the form of tea might be considered. Instructions include adding one ounce of alfalfa in a quart of water , boiling it for one half hour, and then straining the liquid. If this method is attempted, stop the process after three weeks for one week, and then begin again maintaining the same regimen.
Flaxseed appears effective in treating the pain and inflammation of arthritis. Flaxseed oil is available in grocery stores. Two tablespoons of the oil can be added to a person’s diet on a daily basis. Flax seeds are also available but should be avoided by individuals who suffer from IBS, since they can exacerbate a person’s symptoms.
Olive oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and is believed to reduce the inflammation of arthritis. This oil can be cooked with instead of other oils, margarines or butters.
Then there is raw garlic, bananas, massaging affected joints topically with warm olive oil, adding Epsom salts to bath water, and a great deal more. There are also more herbs not identified, simply because they may have unwanted side effects.
Whatever remedy you choose to try, be sure to speak with your primary care physician before beginning the regimen. Not everything will work for everyone, but home remedies are worth a try. If they fail to provide relieve, see your physician for a different direction.
