14 Effective Home Remedies For Arthritis And Joint Pain
We take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited.
The cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the
inflammation of one or more of your joints. There are two main kinds,
osteo and rheumatoid, both of which affect the joint in different ways.
Osteo arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears down, until
bone grates on bone. Rheumatoid is little less straightforward, being
caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the
synovial membrane (a soft tissue that protects joints in the body) and
that can lead to bone loss. Whichever you experience, there are natural
remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms.
14 Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain
We
take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. The
cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the
inflammation of one or more of your joints. There are two main kinds,
osteo and rheumatoid, both of which affect the joint in different ways.
Osteo arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears down, until
bone grates on bone. Rheumatoid is little less straightforward, being
caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the
synovial membrane (a soft tissue that protects joints in the body) and
that can lead to bone loss. Whichever you experience, there are natural
remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms.
1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with
oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot
of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin,
which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2
enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often
fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a
nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.
You will need…
-2 cups of water
-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste
Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground
ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15
minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2
servings.
14 Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain
We
take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. The
cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the
inflammation of one or more of your joints. There are two main kinds,
osteo and rheumatoid, both of which affect the joint in different ways.
Osteo arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears down, until
bone grates on bone. Rheumatoid is little less straightforward, being
caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the
synovial membrane (a soft tissue that protects joints in the body) and
that can lead to bone loss. Whichever you experience, there are natural
remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms.
1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with
oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot
of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin,
which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2
enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often
fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a
nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.
You will need…
-2 cups of water
-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste
Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground
ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15
minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2
servings.
2. Epsom salt soak
Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate which sounds kind of scary, but
it’s really quite a wonderful substance. A naturally occurring mineral,
magnesium sulfate has been used to get relief from pain for years,
namely because of its high levels of magnesium (more on magnesium
below.)
You will need…
-1/2 cup of Epsom salt
-A large bowl
-Warm water
Directions
Fill a large bowl with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Stir
it around, and then submerge your sore joints in the liquid. If you are
experiencing pain in a less convenient place to soak, such as your
knees, try taking a bath with Epsom salts. Run a tub full of warm water
and add 2 cups of Epsom salt. Soak for 15 minutes (at least.)
14 Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain
We
take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. The
cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the
inflammation of one or more of your joints. There are two main kinds,
osteo and rheumatoid, both of which affect the joint in different ways.
Osteo arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears down, until
bone grates on bone. Rheumatoid is little less straightforward, being
caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the
synovial membrane (a soft tissue that protects joints in the body) and
that can lead to bone loss. Whichever you experience, there are natural
remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms.
1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with
oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot
of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin,
which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2
enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often
fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a
nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.
You will need…
-2 cups of water
-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste
Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground
ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15
minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2
servings.
2. Epsom salt soak
Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate which sounds kind of scary, but
it’s really quite a wonderful substance. A naturally occurring mineral,
magnesium sulfate has been used to get relief from pain for years,
namely because of its high levels of magnesium (more on magnesium
below.)
You will need…
-1/2 cup of Epsom salt
-A large bowl
-Warm water
Directions
Fill a large bowl with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Stir
it around, and then submerge your sore joints in the liquid. If you are
experiencing pain in a less convenient place to soak, such as your
knees, try taking a bath with Epsom salts. Run a tub full of warm water
and add 2 cups of Epsom salt. Soak for 15 minutes (at least.)
3. Get more magnesium (seriously.)
Magnesium is something our bodies need, but we can’t make it
ourselves. It is used in over 300 different biomechanical responses in
our body. It relaxes all our muscles and nerve endings, relieving
stiffness and pain. It is even part of what makes our heart beat. Not
only does it relax muscles and ease pain (this goes for arthritis pain
too, of course) it helps bones to mineralize. The American Journal of
Clinical Nutrition conducted one of many studies on magnesium that
showed people who had a diet high in magnesium/took supplements had
higher bone density, and overall stronger bones. There are several ways
to get more magnesium and utilize it for arthritis in particular.
Supplements: Magnesium capsules are a good thing to
add to your day-to-day life, but they work best when used in conjunction
with an improved diet.
Diet: Really this is the clincher-as great as
supplements are, they can’t do everything. Eat foods that are high in
magnesium, which include dark leafy greens (like spinach), nuts, and
legumes (beans.)
Oil: There is magnesium oil that can be applied
topically and absorbed through the skin. Try rubbing it on sore joints
to relieve pain.
4. Lubricate With Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The very consistency of olive oil makes it seem like something that
would lubricate your joints and ease arthritis pain, and it turns out,
it actually does. A main compound in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
called oleocanthal inhibits inflammatory enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, just
like Advil or aspirin does. The study showed that 1 ½ tablespoons is
equal to 200-mg of ibuprofen. However, not every oil is created equal.
Heat destroys oleocanthal, so it is necessary to use extra virgin olive
oil or “cold-pressed.” The ripeness of the olives at the time they were
pressed also determines the level of oleocanthal-generally the stronger
tasting the oil, the higher the level there is present. It can be taken
internally to reap the benefits, but being high in calories consider
replacing any fats, such as butter, with it in cooking instead.
You will need…
-2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
Directions
Rub a bit of olive oil onto your sore joints twice a day, massaging
in to each one gently. You can also take 2-3 tablespoons daily, but be
sure to give up some other form of fat due to the high calorie count in
the oil (rest easy, these are good calories.)
5. Dandelion Leaves
Incredibly high in vitamins A and C, dandelion leaves can help repair
damaged tissue and help the liver clear toxins out of the blood.
Studies, although limited, have also shown anti-inflammatory properties
due to the linoleic and linoleic acid in them. Linoleic is an essential
fatty acid required by the body to produce prostaglandin-which basically
regulates immune responses and suppresses inflammation. Because of its
involvement with immune responses, dandelion shows great potential when
it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis in particular. You can enjoy
dandelion leaves in nice salad, or brew tea with them.
You will need…
-3 teaspoons of fresh dandelion leaves, or 1 teaspoon of dried
-1 cup of boiling water
-A handful of fresh leaves (if making a salad)
-A dash of extra virgin olive oil (if making a salad)
Directions
For fresh dandelion tea, step 3 teaspoons of fresh leaves or 1
teaspoon dried in 1 cup of boiling water. Strain and drink twice daily.
Dandelion tea is very bitter…you have been warned! You can add honey to
sweeten it up if you’d like. To make a salad, simply toss the greens in
with another recipe, or eat them plain with a bit of extra virgin olive
oil. Older leaves can be gently sautéed to soften them up a bit.
6. Blackstrap Molasses Drink
High in valuable minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium,
blackstrap molasses has been a cherished home remedy for arthritis for a
number of years. Blackstrap molasses is what remains after the 3rd
boiling of sugar syrup, and is nothing like the nutrient lacking refined
sugars used today. As a dietary supplement (easily consumed as a drink)
blackstrap can help relieve symptoms of arthritis and joint pain,
thanks to its vital constituents that regulate nerve and muscle
function, and strengthen bones.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses
-1 cup of warm water
Directions
Heat 1 cup of fresh water until warm, but not hot. Stir in a
tablespoon of blackstrap molasses and drink once daily. Do note that it
can sometimes have a laxative effect.
7. White Willow Tea (the original aspirin)
Before there was aspirin, and I mean way before aspirin, there was
white willow bark. The Greek physician Hippocrates wrote about it all
the way back in 5th century BC. It wasn’t until 18-something or other
(1829, I believe) that it was found that white willow was so effective
because it contained an active ingredient called salicin. Salicin is
converted in the body into salicylic acid-similar to acetyl salicylic
acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. But because the naturally
occurring salicin is converted after it passed through the stomach, it
resulted in less irritation/side effects. While it can be taken in a
capsule form, I usually opt for the tea version of just about
everything.
You will need…
-2 teaspoons of powdered or chipped white willow bark
-1 cup of water
-Honey or lemon to taste
Directions
Bring 1 cup (8 oz.) of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add 2
teaspoons of powdered or chipped white willow bark and let it infuse
for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 more
minutes. Drink twice daily-it’s bitter, so honey and lemon are usually
welcome here.
8. Exercise
When it’s painful and difficult just to move, the last thing you feel
like doing is getting up and exercising. As unpleasant as it may sound
though, exercise is vital for those who suffer from any form of
stiffness, joint pain, or Arthritis, Exercise will help control weight (an excess of which puts more strain
on your joints) strengthens the muscles that support the joint, even
when the cartilage is thinning, and lubricates the joints, allowing them
to move more freely. When we are inactive the synovial fluid in the
joints is the consistency of a thick gel, but once we get moving and
warming up, the liquid becomes more viscous and can do a better job of
lubricating our joints and keeping them going smoothly. Just imagine if
you were to be sedentary every day, pretty soon you’d be so stiff it’d
be just about impossible to move. But if you get up and move around
every day, you’ll get stronger and will loosen up as well.
Try…
-Going for a brisk walk-start with 15 minutes and work your way up into a solid daily routine.
-Doing joint-targeted exercises-certain stretches and exercises
specifically target joints to help rid them of stiffness and pain.
-Getting a dog-doing so backs up the first point, because you’ll have no choice but to walk!
9. Peppermint Eucalyptus Oil Blend
Peppermint and eucalyptus don’t change the course of the arthritis
itself, but they do have analgesic, or pain-relieving, properties. The
cooling sensation that they produce can temporarily override your
discomfort, and create a soothing sensation that can ease the pain of
arthritis.
You will need…
-5-10 drops of Peppermint oil
-5-10 drops of Eucalyptus oil
-1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil (olive, almond, grape seed, etc.)
-A small dark glass bottle
Directions
Blend 5-10 drops of eucalyptus and peppermint oil together, and then
mix into 1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil. Carrier oil is needed to dilute
the essential oil so that it does not irritate the skin, and can be
olive oil, grapeseed oil, or something of the like (not oil.) Store the
oil blend in dark glass bottle away from direct sunlight, and rub into
your joints when they ache.
10. Juniper Berry Tea
A 2009 research trial published in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology”
found that juniper berries do indeed help with arthritis pain thanks to
a component called terpinen-4-ol. Terpene suppresses a type of white
blood cells called monocytes which, as a part of our immune system,
respond to signals of inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune
system attacks normal joint tissue for no reason, leading to
inflammation, pain, and loss of function. If taken daily, juniper may be
able to reduce the uncomfortable inflammation thanks to its terpene
content. Only prickly juniper and common juniper varieties were
effective.
Note: Do NOT drink juniper berry tea while pregnant.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of dried juniper berries
-1 cup of fresh water
-Honey (optional)
Directions
Bring 1 cup of fresh water to a boil, and place 1 tablespoon of dried
juniper berries in a mug. Pour the boiling water over the berries and
let them steep for 20 minutes before straining. Drink 1 cup twice daily,
and add honey to taste if you like.
11. Golden Raisins & Gin
First off I am not recommending that you go and drink gin, but I
thought this was an interesting old home remedy for arthritis. Gins
flavor is derived from juniper berries (see #11 for a more in depth
explanation of juniper berries) which contain anti-inflammatory
properties. Golden raisins (only golden can be used in this recipe)
require sulfides in their processing to give them their characteristic
color. Sulfides are found in both glucosamine and chondroitin, which
many people have found to be helpful remedies for arthritis. This remedy
stretches back at least 20 years, and some people swear by it, while
others have had limited success.
You will need…
-Around 1/2 cup of gin
-1 cup of golden raisins
-a shallow dish
Directions
The amounts will vary depending on how big of a batch you are making,
but basically you just need raisins and enough gin to just cover them,
and the above amounts are just to give a general guideline. I am one of
those people who, even if it is a loosely interpreted recipe, like to
have some numbers to start with. Anyways, place 1 cup of golden raisins
in a shallow dish, and pour in enough gin to just barely cover them.
Cover with a towel and store them away in a dark place until the gin has
evaporated (around 2 weeks.) Eat 9 of the raisins daily, keeping in
mind the results may take several weeks to show.
12. Bosweilla supplements
Also known as Frankincense, Bosweilla is a flowering plant native to
Africa and Asia. The gum resin or extract of the plant works as an
anti-inflammatory and pain-killer. It works against inflammation by
‘disabling’ white blood cells that would cause swelling, and also helps
shrink tissue that has already become inflamed and painful. I am afraid I
don’t have a tea recipe for this one, as it is generally taken in a
tablet supplement form, much like a vitamin. It is sold at many health
stores and online, and is fairly reasonably priced compared to what some
other supplements cost.
13. Pectin & Grape Juice
Pectin is a water soluble carbohydrate substance found in the cell
walls of plants, where it helps keep cell walls together, and gives
fruit firmness as it ripens. It is extracted from fruit to use as a
setting in jams and jellies, and has become popular as a home remedy for
arthritis when combined with grape juice. It has been tentatively
hypothesized that it helps return the synovial tissue to a more elastic
and lubricated state, which results in pain-free movement. Despite the
fact that more studies are needed on pectin and connective tissue many
people have found, for whatever reason, great relief from their
arthritis with it. The grape juice is the liquid of choice due to the
fact that it can help with inflammation.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of liquid pectin
-8 oz. of grape juice
Directions
Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid pectin with 8 oz. of grape juice and drink
1-2 times daily. It will take a week or two for the effects to show.
14. Cayenne ‘Capsaicin’ Ointment
A common OTC pain reliever for joint pain contains capsaicin, a
component in hot peppers that inhibits something called Substance P.
Substance P is involved in transmitting pain signals to our brain, and
when the capsaicin interferes with it, it minimizes the alert to the
discomfort, and therefore the discomfort itself. It has been one of the
more effective topical treatments for arthritis, and you can make your
own at home with humble cayenne. Keep in mind, however, that it is only a
temporary fix and should be used sparingly if possible.
PS-
THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE
HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.
PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO VIEW MY BLOG-
HTTP:GSEASYRECIPES.BLOGSPOT.COM/
FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-
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FOR CROCHET DESIGNS
HTTP://MY CROCHET CREATIONS.BLOGSPOT.COM
14 Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain
1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with
oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot
of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin,
which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2
enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often
fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a
nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.
You will need…
-2 cups of water-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste
Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground
ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15
minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2
servings.14 Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain
1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with
oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot
of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin,
which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2
enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often
fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a
nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.
You will need…
-2 cups of water-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste
Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground
ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15
minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2
servings.
2. Epsom salt soak
Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate which sounds kind of scary, but
it’s really quite a wonderful substance. A naturally occurring mineral,
magnesium sulfate has been used to get relief from pain for years,
namely because of its high levels of magnesium (more on magnesium
below.)
You will need…
-1/2 cup of Epsom salt-A large bowl
-Warm water
Directions
Fill a large bowl with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Stir
it around, and then submerge your sore joints in the liquid. If you are
experiencing pain in a less convenient place to soak, such as your
knees, try taking a bath with Epsom salts. Run a tub full of warm water
and add 2 cups of Epsom salt. Soak for 15 minutes (at least.)14 Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain
1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea
Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with
oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot
of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin,
which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2
enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often
fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a
nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.
You will need…
-2 cups of water-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste
Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground
ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15
minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2
servings.
2. Epsom salt soak
Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate which sounds kind of scary, but
it’s really quite a wonderful substance. A naturally occurring mineral,
magnesium sulfate has been used to get relief from pain for years,
namely because of its high levels of magnesium (more on magnesium
below.)
You will need…
-1/2 cup of Epsom salt-A large bowl
-Warm water
Directions
Fill a large bowl with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Stir
it around, and then submerge your sore joints in the liquid. If you are
experiencing pain in a less convenient place to soak, such as your
knees, try taking a bath with Epsom salts. Run a tub full of warm water
and add 2 cups of Epsom salt. Soak for 15 minutes (at least.)
3. Get more magnesium (seriously.)
Magnesium is something our bodies need, but we can’t make it
ourselves. It is used in over 300 different biomechanical responses in
our body. It relaxes all our muscles and nerve endings, relieving
stiffness and pain. It is even part of what makes our heart beat. Not
only does it relax muscles and ease pain (this goes for arthritis pain
too, of course) it helps bones to mineralize. The American Journal of
Clinical Nutrition conducted one of many studies on magnesium that
showed people who had a diet high in magnesium/took supplements had
higher bone density, and overall stronger bones. There are several ways
to get more magnesium and utilize it for arthritis in particular.Supplements: Magnesium capsules are a good thing to add to your day-to-day life, but they work best when used in conjunction with an improved diet.
Diet: Really this is the clincher-as great as supplements are, they can’t do everything. Eat foods that are high in magnesium, which include dark leafy greens (like spinach), nuts, and legumes (beans.)
Oil: There is magnesium oil that can be applied topically and absorbed through the skin. Try rubbing it on sore joints to relieve pain.
4. Lubricate With Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The very consistency of olive oil makes it seem like something that
would lubricate your joints and ease arthritis pain, and it turns out,
it actually does. A main compound in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
called oleocanthal inhibits inflammatory enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, just
like Advil or aspirin does. The study showed that 1 ½ tablespoons is
equal to 200-mg of ibuprofen. However, not every oil is created equal.
Heat destroys oleocanthal, so it is necessary to use extra virgin olive
oil or “cold-pressed.” The ripeness of the olives at the time they were
pressed also determines the level of oleocanthal-generally the stronger
tasting the oil, the higher the level there is present. It can be taken
internally to reap the benefits, but being high in calories consider
replacing any fats, such as butter, with it in cooking instead.
You will need…
-2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
Directions
Rub a bit of olive oil onto your sore joints twice a day, massaging
in to each one gently. You can also take 2-3 tablespoons daily, but be
sure to give up some other form of fat due to the high calorie count in
the oil (rest easy, these are good calories.)
5. Dandelion Leaves
Incredibly high in vitamins A and C, dandelion leaves can help repair
damaged tissue and help the liver clear toxins out of the blood.
Studies, although limited, have also shown anti-inflammatory properties
due to the linoleic and linoleic acid in them. Linoleic is an essential
fatty acid required by the body to produce prostaglandin-which basically
regulates immune responses and suppresses inflammation. Because of its
involvement with immune responses, dandelion shows great potential when
it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis in particular. You can enjoy
dandelion leaves in nice salad, or brew tea with them.
You will need…
-3 teaspoons of fresh dandelion leaves, or 1 teaspoon of dried-1 cup of boiling water
-A handful of fresh leaves (if making a salad)
-A dash of extra virgin olive oil (if making a salad)
Directions
For fresh dandelion tea, step 3 teaspoons of fresh leaves or 1
teaspoon dried in 1 cup of boiling water. Strain and drink twice daily.
Dandelion tea is very bitter…you have been warned! You can add honey to
sweeten it up if you’d like. To make a salad, simply toss the greens in
with another recipe, or eat them plain with a bit of extra virgin olive
oil. Older leaves can be gently sautéed to soften them up a bit.
6. Blackstrap Molasses Drink
High in valuable minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium,
blackstrap molasses has been a cherished home remedy for arthritis for a
number of years. Blackstrap molasses is what remains after the 3rd
boiling of sugar syrup, and is nothing like the nutrient lacking refined
sugars used today. As a dietary supplement (easily consumed as a drink)
blackstrap can help relieve symptoms of arthritis and joint pain,
thanks to its vital constituents that regulate nerve and muscle
function, and strengthen bones.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses-1 cup of warm water
Directions
Heat 1 cup of fresh water until warm, but not hot. Stir in a
tablespoon of blackstrap molasses and drink once daily. Do note that it
can sometimes have a laxative effect.
7. White Willow Tea (the original aspirin)
Before there was aspirin, and I mean way before aspirin, there was
white willow bark. The Greek physician Hippocrates wrote about it all
the way back in 5th century BC. It wasn’t until 18-something or other
(1829, I believe) that it was found that white willow was so effective
because it contained an active ingredient called salicin. Salicin is
converted in the body into salicylic acid-similar to acetyl salicylic
acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. But because the naturally
occurring salicin is converted after it passed through the stomach, it
resulted in less irritation/side effects. While it can be taken in a
capsule form, I usually opt for the tea version of just about
everything.
You will need…
-2 teaspoons of powdered or chipped white willow bark-1 cup of water
-Honey or lemon to taste
Directions
Bring 1 cup (8 oz.) of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add 2
teaspoons of powdered or chipped white willow bark and let it infuse
for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 more
minutes. Drink twice daily-it’s bitter, so honey and lemon are usually
welcome here.
8. Exercise
When it’s painful and difficult just to move, the last thing you feel
like doing is getting up and exercising. As unpleasant as it may sound
though, exercise is vital for those who suffer from any form of
stiffness, joint pain, or Arthritis, Exercise will help control weight (an excess of which puts more strain
on your joints) strengthens the muscles that support the joint, even
when the cartilage is thinning, and lubricates the joints, allowing them
to move more freely. When we are inactive the synovial fluid in the
joints is the consistency of a thick gel, but once we get moving and
warming up, the liquid becomes more viscous and can do a better job of
lubricating our joints and keeping them going smoothly. Just imagine if
you were to be sedentary every day, pretty soon you’d be so stiff it’d
be just about impossible to move. But if you get up and move around
every day, you’ll get stronger and will loosen up as well. Try…
-Going for a brisk walk-start with 15 minutes and work your way up into a solid daily routine.
-Doing joint-targeted exercises-certain stretches and exercises specifically target joints to help rid them of stiffness and pain.
-Getting a dog-doing so backs up the first point, because you’ll have no choice but to walk!
9. Peppermint Eucalyptus Oil Blend
Peppermint and eucalyptus don’t change the course of the arthritis
itself, but they do have analgesic, or pain-relieving, properties. The
cooling sensation that they produce can temporarily override your
discomfort, and create a soothing sensation that can ease the pain of
arthritis.
You will need…
-5-10 drops of Peppermint oil-5-10 drops of Eucalyptus oil
-1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil (olive, almond, grape seed, etc.)
-A small dark glass bottle
Directions
Blend 5-10 drops of eucalyptus and peppermint oil together, and then
mix into 1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil. Carrier oil is needed to dilute
the essential oil so that it does not irritate the skin, and can be
olive oil, grapeseed oil, or something of the like (not oil.) Store the
oil blend in dark glass bottle away from direct sunlight, and rub into
your joints when they ache.
10. Juniper Berry Tea
A 2009 research trial published in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology”
found that juniper berries do indeed help with arthritis pain thanks to
a component called terpinen-4-ol. Terpene suppresses a type of white
blood cells called monocytes which, as a part of our immune system,
respond to signals of inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune
system attacks normal joint tissue for no reason, leading to
inflammation, pain, and loss of function. If taken daily, juniper may be
able to reduce the uncomfortable inflammation thanks to its terpene
content. Only prickly juniper and common juniper varieties were
effective. Note: Do NOT drink juniper berry tea while pregnant.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of dried juniper berries-1 cup of fresh water
-Honey (optional)
Directions
Bring 1 cup of fresh water to a boil, and place 1 tablespoon of dried
juniper berries in a mug. Pour the boiling water over the berries and
let them steep for 20 minutes before straining. Drink 1 cup twice daily,
and add honey to taste if you like.
11. Golden Raisins & Gin
First off I am not recommending that you go and drink gin, but I
thought this was an interesting old home remedy for arthritis. Gins
flavor is derived from juniper berries (see #11 for a more in depth
explanation of juniper berries) which contain anti-inflammatory
properties. Golden raisins (only golden can be used in this recipe)
require sulfides in their processing to give them their characteristic
color. Sulfides are found in both glucosamine and chondroitin, which
many people have found to be helpful remedies for arthritis. This remedy
stretches back at least 20 years, and some people swear by it, while
others have had limited success.
You will need…
-Around 1/2 cup of gin-1 cup of golden raisins
-a shallow dish
Directions
The amounts will vary depending on how big of a batch you are making,
but basically you just need raisins and enough gin to just cover them,
and the above amounts are just to give a general guideline. I am one of
those people who, even if it is a loosely interpreted recipe, like to
have some numbers to start with. Anyways, place 1 cup of golden raisins
in a shallow dish, and pour in enough gin to just barely cover them.
Cover with a towel and store them away in a dark place until the gin has
evaporated (around 2 weeks.) Eat 9 of the raisins daily, keeping in
mind the results may take several weeks to show.
12. Bosweilla supplements
Also known as Frankincense, Bosweilla is a flowering plant native to
Africa and Asia. The gum resin or extract of the plant works as an
anti-inflammatory and pain-killer. It works against inflammation by
‘disabling’ white blood cells that would cause swelling, and also helps
shrink tissue that has already become inflamed and painful. I am afraid I
don’t have a tea recipe for this one, as it is generally taken in a
tablet supplement form, much like a vitamin. It is sold at many health
stores and online, and is fairly reasonably priced compared to what some
other supplements cost.
13. Pectin & Grape Juice
Pectin is a water soluble carbohydrate substance found in the cell
walls of plants, where it helps keep cell walls together, and gives
fruit firmness as it ripens. It is extracted from fruit to use as a
setting in jams and jellies, and has become popular as a home remedy for
arthritis when combined with grape juice. It has been tentatively
hypothesized that it helps return the synovial tissue to a more elastic
and lubricated state, which results in pain-free movement. Despite the
fact that more studies are needed on pectin and connective tissue many
people have found, for whatever reason, great relief from their
arthritis with it. The grape juice is the liquid of choice due to the
fact that it can help with inflammation.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of liquid pectin-8 oz. of grape juice
Directions
Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid pectin with 8 oz. of grape juice and drink
1-2 times daily. It will take a week or two for the effects to show.
14. Cayenne ‘Capsaicin’ Ointment
A common OTC pain reliever for joint pain contains capsaicin, a
component in hot peppers that inhibits something called Substance P.
Substance P is involved in transmitting pain signals to our brain, and
when the capsaicin interferes with it, it minimizes the alert to the
discomfort, and therefore the discomfort itself. It has been one of the
more effective topical treatments for arthritis, and you can make your
own at home with humble cayenne. Keep in mind, however, that it is only a
temporary fix and should be used sparingly if possible.
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Labels: dandelion, epsom salt, eucalyptus, Extra virgin olive oil, gin, Ginger, grape juice, magnesium, molasses, pectin, Peppermint, raisins, Turmeric, willow bark
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