Real (Natural) Arthritis Pain Relief (+ Recipes)

NOTE: This is a long, information-packed article on arthritis pain relief. To make it easier to navigate, use the Table of Contents button to your right!

Many people live with joint pain on a regular basis and just assume they’re getting arthritis, but not all joint pain is caused by arthritis, and not all joint pain (or arthritis) is treated in the same way. That’s why it’s important to recognize the symptoms so your doctor can correctly identify and help you with joint or arthritis pain relief, rather than treat you incorrectly and find the correct diagnosis later.

The Physical Effects of Arthritis

Joint pain is the most common known symptom of arthritis. The pain can be mild to severe, and is generally persistent. While it may be worse when you stand, walk, run, or perform other activities, this doesn’t mean it goes away when you’re resting.

In addition to being painful, arthritic joints tend to become swollen, red and inflamed. While the pain and swelling are generally just an inconvenience to begin with, if arthritis is not treated it can become severe and significantly limit your physical activity.

Some arthritis causes bones to actually build up. This causes pain, but will also begin to deform your joints, particularly if it’s in the fingers and hands. You may notice hard lumps start to grow on the sides of fingers or other affected joints.

Another common symptom of arthritis is the loss of range of motion. You may not be able to bend a joint as far as you used to because of pain or swelling. While minor loss of range of motion can be mildly annoying, if the symptoms get worse it can begin to affect your daily life and activities.

There are other less common symptoms associated with arthritis that have little to nothing to do with the joints themselves. People with certain types of arthritis can experience fever, fatigue, mood problems and weight loss.

Most people are surprised to find out there are more than 100 different types of arthritis. Plus, even if two people have the same kind, they will probably have somewhat different symptoms.

While many people can treat minor arthritis with over-the-counter arthritis pain relief medicine, you should still see a physician to make sure it isn’t something more serious. They can also help recommend what kind of joint pain relief or other therapy would be best for your specific case.

Simply living with arthritis is not something you have to do. While arthritis is not curable, there are many treatments to manage the pain, as well as slow progression and treat the underlying cause of the problem.

Common Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the more common form of arthritis and affects the cartilage between the bones in that it degenerates or wastes away leaving joints vulnerable to rubbing of bone on bone.

Specialists suggest that obesity and repetitive movement can play a role in the development of osteoarthritis. Avoiding excess weight and repetitive movements can help prevent or lessen the effects of osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, also called inflammatory arthritis, is a more severe form of arthritis but less common than osterarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the joint, which then causes pain and swelling.

This form of arthritis can lead to a reduced ability to move and also results in a breakdown of bone and cartilage. Symptoms of arthritis are stiffness, joint pain and swelling.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is often associated with individuals who suffer from psoriasis of the skin. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that affects 2 percent of the Caucasian population in the United States. Individuals who suffer from psoriasis experience patchy, raised, red areas of the skin that become flamed and scaling.

The most common areas of the body that are affected are the elbows, knees, scalp, naval and around the genital areas. About 10% of those who suffer from psoriasis will also develop and associated inflammation of the joints, called psoriatic arthritis.

For the most part, individuals who suffer from psoriasis start to see symptoms prior to the age of 20. The onset of psoriatic arthritis generally happens in individuals in their 40s and 50s. Men and women are affected equally in the skin disease will precede the arthritis and nearly 80% of the patients. If the arthritis begins before the psoriasis the diagnosis can be difficult in the disease may be more severe.

Psoriatic arthritis is a systemic rheumatic disease, which means that causes inflammation in body tissues others in the joints. For instance, the eyes, heart, lungs and kidneys can be affected. Research has shown that persistent inflammation in the joints from psoriatic arthritis can lead to damage that is permanent. Early diagnosis is important to avoid this joint damage.

What Causes Psoriatic Arthritis?

At this time the exact causes of psoriatic arthritis are not known. While researchers know that individuals who have psoriasis are more at risk, not all individuals with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. At this point researchers are unsure if there is a genetic role in the disease but do know that 40 percent of those who develop psoriatic arthritis will have a family member who has psoriasis or arthritis. Another theory is that psoriatic arthritis can result from an infection that activates the immune system.

Signs, Symptoms and Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis

Aside from the arthritis and changes in the spine, psoriatic arthritis can also inflame other organs in the body. Inflammation of the colored part of the eye can cause iritis. Corticosteroids are sometimes necessary to prevent blindness. Inflammation around the lungs costs as chest pain and inflammation of the aorta can cause leakage of the valves leading to heart failure and shortness of breath.

Doctors have noted that 80 percent of patients who suffer from psoriatic arthritis will also have pitting and ridges seen in the fingernails and toenails. These particular nail changes are observed in only a minority of patients who also experienced psoriasis but do not have arthritis. There is also an increasing frequency of individuals who have psoriatic arthritis and also suffer from acne.

Juvenile Arthritis

Formally called Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, juvenile arthritis is only described in children under the age of 16. Only in the last 10 years has the word “rheumatoid” dropped from the name. This was done as it was essentially a misnomer because it is not a disease process similar to rheumatoid arthritis but something rather different.

Juvenile arthritis also has several other names such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, juvenile chronic arthritis and childhood arthritis. And, just as the generic term arthritis refers to over 100 different medical conditions, juvenile arthritis is actually a collection of three different diseases that are arthritic in nature.

One of these three disease conditions included under the umbrella term of juvenile arthritis will affect one in every 1000 children in the United States. These children often suffer from pain, stiffness and swelling that will last longer than six weeks and cannot be attributed to an injury or any other illness. In some cases, juvenile arthritis will initially presents after an injury but researchers have found that these injuries are not the cause, only the trigger.

And, while researchers are aware of some of the instances which trigger the onset of juvenile arthritis, they have not found a definitive cause. Presently, researchers believe that there are no genetic factors for juvenile arthritis since it does not run in families and it doesn’t appear that mothers pass it to their children. How the disease will progress appears to be well known but the Why continues to be a mystery.

Because a definitive cause cannot be identified this also does not allow researchers or physicians to identify a single symptom or test that will diagnose juvenile arthritis, a preventative measure to stop it from developing or a curative treatment protocol.

Risk factors for Arthritis

Are you at risk for arthritis? There’s a gap between normal wear and tear and aggravated wear and tear. The difference is your degree of risk. These factors may include weight, trauma, infection, occupational hazards, age, gender and genetic endowment.

Knowing your risk and what has led to your arthritis may aid in arriving at changes that will better your life in the end. Let’s start out with factors within your control. These would be things such as weight, infection and your line of work.

Additional weight to the body increases the pressure on your joints. A sound diet and work out plan may help you drop off those additional pounds that are impacting your joints.

How about your occupation? Is there heavy lifting required? Inflammation in the joints may be induced by a deficiency of lubrication and more bone rubbing against bone. That supportive cartilage and fluid can be displaced by bad technique while lifting and through falls and traumas.

There are likewise risk factors that you can not control. We’re all becoming older every day. Part of aging is the wear and tear it takes on the body. Women are likewise prone to bone issues such as osteoporosis, particularly after menopause. You may likewise be susceptible to some forms of arthritis depending upon your family history.

Traditional Arthritis Treatments

All traditional medications and prescriptions are regulated by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but herbal and natural remedies are not regulated were drafts by any regulating agency. Traditional medications are developed with the intent to deliver the same dose of medicine in each and every pill, every single time.

Pharmaceutical companies undergo rigorous testing on both animal models and humans before medications are released to the general public, either for over-the-counter use or through prescription.

While there have been several cases in the media where medications have been released without appropriate testing or even after testing has been shown that the medicine does not reach levels of safety generally recommended for release, this has been outside of the norm.

Unfortunately, some patient illnesses and deaths have resulted from these mistakes. However, drug companies also have a solid knowledge about the way in which the FDA approvals are given and hold a bigger stake in getting their drugs released to the general public because of the amount of money that is to be made in the drug industry.

Top 10 Tips for Managing Arthritis

The goal in treating arthritis is to focus on eliminating the underlying (root) cause of the arthritis. However, the cause is NOT necessarily curable, as this is often a degenerative disease often associated with aging. The treatment goal, should address the reducing of pain and discomfort and preventing further disability.

It is possible to greatly improve symptoms and other long-term types of arthritis without medications. In fact, making lifestyle changes without medications is preferable for osteoarthritis and other forms of joint inflammation. If needed, medications should be used in addition to lifestyle changes.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been shown to be extremely affective for long term problems with arthritis. Acupuncture is a therapeutic modality that has shown good benefits in the outcome measurements of pain relief for arthritis.

Electro-acupuncture had shown even greater results with pain threshold, regional pain scoring and sleep quality. A combination of both high frequencies, associated with serotonin release – short-term effects and low frequencies, associated with endorphin release – cumulative effects are optimal for pain relief.

Exercise

Exercise conditioning and stretching can improve certain pains with stretching such as painful, stiff muscles and joints by increasing blood flow to these areas. Walking and weight baring exercises are beneficial for improving strength , bone density and circulation. Restoring movement and normal function to an injured area is critical. Learn to stretch to improve your flexibility.

Proper Diet

A poor diet can be a nutrition zapper that robs the body of proper vitamins, mineral and sufficient amino acids that are important for energy product. A balance of fresh vegetables, complex carbs, whole grain, as well as, fruits, nuts, seeds and protein are very important for maintaining proper energy levels. A diet consisting mainly of plant based foods like fruits and NON-night shade vegetables (eggplant, tomatoes, potatoes…) have shown great results with those suffering from arthritis.

Avoiding fried foods and refined carbohydrates are a must. Difficulties with the digestive tract such as thirst, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, acid reflux are symptoms of poor assimilation of food. The delicate balance of our digestive system can affect our whole system in so many ways. Decrease your intake of excess protein, carbonated drinks and coffee.

Reducing Stress

People who have things in their lives under control will be better pain managers than people who don’t. Recent research confirms the importance of psychological attitude on arthritis pain relief. It is no secret, if you are hurting and you are tense, you hurt more. Look at your attitudes and emotions. The mental and emotional aspects of healing have a direct connection between you and what you are experiencing.

A positive mental and emotional attitude and can be created and maintained by focusing on your purpose for being healed. Idle joints can become painful joints. If you focus on pain, it hurts more, but if you are doing things that are important to you, or focused on you, then you are less likely to feel it.

Supplementing

Take additional vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements can help to supplement major deficiencies. Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals in our diet have proven to be the culprit of much pain and suffering. We often do not get enough of the required amounts of calcium, magnesium, selenium, zinc and essential fatty acids. Asian herbal formulas have also been an extremely important key to restoring balance in the body.

Work with Herbal Remedies

There are great herbal solutions to relieving pain naturally, improving circulation, elimination and assimilation. There are great herbs to help you sleep and regulate your entire body system. The herbal remedies are even more helpful when the arthritis is further divided into location of pain, worse with cold/damp or damp heat or if it is more affected by wind. (see Chinese medicine).

Topical Care

Eighty-nine percent of patients suffer from some type of morning stiffness. Apply a muscle ointment at night before going to bed will relax the musculature around the joits, decrease inflammation as it gives you a psychological boost as well. This boost tends to help people with arthritis to feel much better all day if they aren’t stiff when they wake up in the morning. Consider such topicals as Zeel, Chinese massage oil, UI Oil, White Flower Oil, Taoist Oil or Wind Cream.

Try Night Prevention for Morning Stiffness

Almost 90 percent of the patients suffer from some type of morning stiffness. Apply a muscle ointment at night before going to bed. It will relax you and gives you a psychological boost as well. The reason? People with arthritis tend to feel much better all day if they aren’t stiff when they wake up in the morning.

Touch Therapies

Touch therapies have shown helpful in studies on arthritis. Massage therapy improves circulation and joint mobility. Massage strengthens the immune system, treats musculo-skeletal problems, reduces blood pressure, helps relieve tension-related headaches and effects of eye-strain.

Massage therapy promotes deeper and easier breathing, improves circulation of blood and movement of lymph fluids. Osteopathic or chiropractic treatments are recommended to relieve any pressures that may be hindering circulation and decreasing eliminations. This is vital , your spine and its nerve pathways can have an enormous influence on how you feel and the functioning of your body.

Hydrotherapy

has a number of uses. Warm water will relax spasm, while cool can decrease inflammation. Studies have shown that floating in specially designed floatation tanks, also known as isolation tanks, can relieve arthritic pain. Moist heat can be helpful when feeling stiff or having pain. Hydrotherapy has been useful in treating such conditions as muscular strains and sprains, muscular fatigue, joint swelling and arthritis.

Improving Elimination

Poor elimination is usually diagnosed when bowel movements occur fewer than three times per week on an ongoing basis. Other signs occur when the stool is hard, dry or there is excessive straining. Many people don’t realize that the gastrointestinal tract contains the largest immune system in the body.

The immune system is the body’s natural defense against foreign invaders, and it is somehow altered in people who have these conditions. Some researchers believe that the long-lasting inflammation found in the intestines of people with IBD damages the bowel, which in turn may allow bacteria to enter the damaged bowel wall and circulate through the blood stream.

The body’s reaction to these bacteria may cause other problems including inflammation in the joints and/or spine, skin sores and inflammation of the eyes. Start with a healthy detox. Detoxifying is the process of releasing accumulated toxins and waste products that build up throughout our system.

Our body does much of the detoxification process through urination, defecation and perspiration. As our bodies age and our immune systems weaken from illness, poor diet and/or addictive substances, we sometimes need to give our system an extra helping hand. That is why conscious detoxing is a great way back to optimum health.

Natural Arthritis Pain Relievers, Treatments

The flip side of the equation are natural remedies which unfortunately can also unpredictably include other chemicals. These other chemicals can interact with the herbal and traditional therapies the patient is already taking.

The question that most patients ask is “Do herbal remedies work?” herbal remedies have been used throughout the centuries for at least the past 1000 years, with studies that also show that they are effective in treatment protocols.

The real culprit is the manufacturing process because, although the herbs had the desired effect in treatment, there is no guarantee the name of the herb on the bottle is what is actually in the bottle. This relates back to the lack of regulating agencies who are responsible for maintaining the accuracy and quality of herbal medications.

However, if patients are able to find manufacturers who have a history of quality products, there are several things which they may want to investigate in order to help with the pain and swelling of arthritis.

After many years of trial and error, and research studies, sufferers have found relief using Ginger, willow bark extract, feverfew, cats claw, stinging nettle, alfalfa, black cohosh, and some raw juices. Although there are studies which show that these products will decrease inflammation may also have side effects, like traditional medications do, that affects blood clotting and the immune system.

Patients must remember that although these are natural supplements they are still foreign chemicals being added into the body with the intention of causing an effect. Sometimes these effects aren’t what are intended and are therefore side effects.

Other patients feel that supplements are the best option to help their bodies heal as well as decrease the inflammation and pain. Supplements such as glucosamine and condroitin sulfate work to help the body re-generate substances so the joints aren’t rubbing bone on bone. Research shows that these two supplements work best in combination and have little to no side effects.

Although there hasn’t been conclusive evidence that they affect pain relief, the goal of using these particular supplements is to assist in the production of cartilage and slow or arrest the progression of the disease.

Supplements for Arthritis

Acidophilus

The normal, healthy colon contains “friendly” bacteria (85% lactobacillus and 15% coliform bacteria). It is the friendly bacterial flora found in yogurt and is essential to the digestive system. When these bacteria are not in balance, then the person may experience bloating, flatulence, constipation, and malabsorption of nutrients.

Acidophilus taken as a dietary supplement may help to detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora. It is used for the prevention of Candida as well as for treatment. Acidophilus aids the digestion and helps to replace the “friendly” intestinal flora.

Probiotic

A probiotic will fortify your intestinal flora, which are essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. This is key to good health and a strong immune system. Studies have shown that patients who begin a course of probiotics with fiber a few days prior to surgery are less likely to pick up a post-operative infection during their hospital stays.

This demonstrates a strong connection between intestinal flora and immune function. The fiber, which provides the friendly bacteria both food and sanctuary, can be as simple as an apple or banana.

Magnesium

Magnesium is essential for forming synovial fluid which is the joint cushion. Magnesium is important for cell replication, energy production, the transmission of nerve impulses and hormonal activity. Magnesium can be found in brown rice, soy beans, nuts, brewer’s yeast, whole wheat flour and legumes. Consider supplementing magnesium with a recommended daily dose of 200 – 400 mg daily. Caution: Magnesium is toxic to people with renal (kidney) problems or AV (atrioventricular) blocks.

Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish, both fresh water and salt water varieties. Research over the past decade has found that both Omega six and Omega three fatty acids are considered essential. This means there are essential to human health and cannot be made in the body. For this reason they must be obtained from food. Together, they play a crucial role in brain function as well as normal growth and development.

However, researchers have also found that Omega-6 fatty acids increase the inflammatory process in the body. For this reason, doctors may recommend fish oil supplements that contain the Omega three fatty acids and not flax seed oil which also contains Omega six.

There has been data from a few randomized double controlled studies that have demonstrated a beneficial effect to individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and use a dietary fish oil supplements.

In many of these studies the patients were able to decrease the amount of other medications they use in order to control or inflammation. And in one study the researchers found that combining fish oil with olive oil could also enhance the anti-inflammatory effects.

However, while researchers do know that Omega three fatty acids from fish oil will decrease the inflammatory process in the body, and therefore cause reduced pain and swelling in individuals who suffer from some forms of arthritis, there has also not been any evidence that it reduces the progression of the disease. Omega-3 fatty acids also lowered triglycerides, reduce blood pressure and protect against cardiovascular disease.

Effective Types of Omega-3

The type of fish oil which is used for the supplements is important. Research has found that salmon, mackerel, halibut, tuna and herring, all of which are cold water fish, produce the best omega-3 fatty acids to produce an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. Researchers believe that you cannot get enough of the omega-3 fatty acids from eating foods alone and must use dietary supplementation. However, not everyone should take these supplements.

For instance, individuals who are on an anticoagulant therapy program will find that omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil will impact their clotting times. Pregnant women should not take these supplements because of the danger of mercury poisoning to the baby. As with all supplements that you may consider in order to reduce the pain and inflammation you feel from your arthritis, you must consult with your primary care physician or rheumatologist.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause fatigue. In one trial, 2,500 -5,000 mcg of vitamin B12 given by injection every two to three days, led to improvement in 50-80% of a group of people with arthritis; most improvement appeared after several weeks of B12 shots.

While the research in this area remains preliminary, people with arthritis considering a trial of vitamin B12 injections should consult a nutritional doctor. Oral or sublingual B12 supplements are unlikely to obtain the same results as injectable B12 because the body’s ability to absorb large amounts is relatively poor.

Vitamins B6

Foods rich in the B vitamins, which help regulate metabolism, are also beneficial, as diets high in sugar tend to burn these vitamins at a faster rate. These foods include wheat germ, yogurt, and liver.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C acts primarily in cellular fluid. Vitamin C scavenges free radicals and cleans up waste products. In addition to its anti-oxidative activities, vitamin C benefits many other body functions. Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is an important component in the structural make up of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Vitamin C also plays an important role in the synthesis of the neurotransmitters and norepinephrine.

Neurotransmitters are critical to brain function and are known to affect mood. Vitamin C, even in small amounts, can protect molecules in the body, such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from damage by free radicals.

Vitamin C helps in the fight against free-radical formation caused by pollution and cigarette smoke and also helps return vitamin E to its active form. Take 2,000 – 8,000 mg in divided dosage per day, depending on bowel tolerance.

Herbal Remedies for Arthritis

The medicinal benefits of herbs have been recorded for centuries. Herbs were extensively used to cure practically every known illness and has been documented by Egyptian, Roman, Native American, Persians and Hebrews alike.

Many herbs contain powerful ingredients that, if used correctly, can help heal the body. By using herbs in their complete form, the body’s healing process utilizes a balance of the ingredients provided by nature.

Herbs and herbal formulas can be taken in a variety of ways:

• You may steep herbs as teas in order to release their healing properties.
• Herbal supplements in pills and capsules are another form. These are herbs ground into powder. Herbal formulas tend to be created for a single problem or nest of related problems and their specific pattern of disharmony.
• Tinctures. Herbal remedies are also prescribed in tincture form and are the previously fresh herb in well preserved, highly concentrated form. This liquid, as well as, concentrated forms of extracted herbs are preserved in their freshest form.
• Steam distillation or cold pressing results in herbs as essential oils.
• Plasters are ingredients such as oils, herbs and other pain relieving herbs combined into an easy to use stick on strip or patch.
• Poultices are macerated or chopped herbs that are placed directly on the skin and a hot, moist bandage is applied.
• Infusions are used when you are working with the most delicate part of the herb-the leaves flowers, fruits and seeds.
• Decoction is used to extract the tougher part of the herb-bark, berries and roots.

It is also important to note that since herbs contain active ingredients, be aware that some elements may interact negatively with prescribed medications! Therefore, your healthcare professional must be notified if you have any questions about safety.

As a general rule: most of the bitter tasting herbs are medicinal herbs and the pleasant tasting herbs are less toxic and can be used more often. Also, some herbs in any form, should not be taken for more than seven days at a time. Others herbs are more beneficial with time.

The fresh leaves, bark, and roots of herbs can be used in their natural form or can be found in dried form and used in capsules, tablets, tinctures, essential oils, powders, creams, lotions, and salves.

Specific Herbs for Arthritis

Herbal medicine is a wonderful solution for pain and pain management. Complications can arise when taking herbal medicine and allopathic drugs internally, which your doctor has prescribed. Great caution should be used especially if you are on blood thinners, diuretics or heart related medication. Consult your doctor with any questions you may have, before taking additional herbs or supplements, internally.

• Arnica Suave is a rich blend of quartz silica, amber resin and the pain-relieving power of arnica in a special massage-in suave designed by Andrew for his practice and is a part of his new “Crystal Inspirations” product line.
• Baikal Skullcap: Flavonoid compounds of baikal skullcap display significant antioxidant effects and promote a healthy inflammation response. Baikal skullcap modulatates both COX and LOX pathways, encourages healthy cardiovascular function, and promotes normal cell growth. As an antioxidant, it is superior to vitamins C and E. Moreover, baikal skullcap provides immune support, non-sedating anxiolytic effects, modulates histamine release, and supports the health of cells during oxidative treatments.
• Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) may decrease the progression of arthritis. This dark brown seaweed is a soothing and nourishing tonic. Caution: avoid in overactive (hyper) thyroid conditions.
• Bromelain is a plant-enzyme. Bromelain is not actually a single substance, but a group of protein-digesting enzymes found in pineapple juice and in the stem of pineapple plants. Local swelling is the releasing of histamines in a localized area causes the vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels. Bromelain has an anti-inflammatory effect and is a very effective treatment for fibromyalgia. It is recommend taking 200 to 400 milligrams three times a day on an empty stomach at least ninety minutes before or three hours after eating. Discontinue use if you develop any itching or rash.
• Cats Claw Bark (Uncaria tomentosa): A great anti-inflammatory herb. Also called Una de Gato, the root and bark of this herb, which has cat-like horns or claws, has been used by since the Inca civilization to treat a variety of health problems, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, stomach ulcers, many inflammatory disorders, dysentery, and fevers.
• Cayenne Pepper (Capsaicin): In liquid tincture form is used internally as an ayurvedic remedy for joint pain, especially when affected by cold and dampness. Consider our topical Arthritis Remedy Blend for decreasing pain and inflammation.
• Dandelion Root (Taraxacum Officinale): is recommended for degenerative arthritis. This infamous liver tonic is a safe diuretic herb used for all types of liver problems, promotes good digestion and plays a crucial role in detoxification. This is helpful for chronic and wasting diseases.
• Devil’s Claw: This African herb has been used to reduce joint pain, indigestion and skin inflammations for centuries by the native people of the Kalahari Desert. Recently Devil’s Claw has gained a lot of popularity in Europe as well. Studies have shown that its anti-inflammatory effect is as strong as some of the popular drugs on the market. It is however, preferred due to the lack of severe side effects. You can make a tea out of devil’s claw; however, it is best to use it topically. I have devil’s claw cream at home and it did wonders for my lower back pain, so I absolutely recommend it.
• Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): is very helpful as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and emmenagogue reknowned for the treatment of both migraines and arthritis. The dosage is 1 teaspoon of tincture, 20-30 drops at the onset of a migraine. Repeat after 2 hours as needed. For repeated attacks and as a treatment for arhtritis, take one teaspoon every morning.
• Ginger: An anti-inflammatory. Ginger has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory. Taking 6-50 grams of fresh, liquid tincture or powdered ginger per day indicated that ginger might be helpful. Suggested Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg of powdered ginger daily
• Ginger Tonic: Ginger supports healthy digestion, promotes a healthy inflammation response, promotes platelet health and cardiovascular function, and increases the absorption and utilization of other herbs and nutrients.
• Ginseng, Siberian: (Eleuthero senticosus) is beneficial especially for rheumatoid arthritis. This famous wonder of the world root is widely used and increase vital energy, works as an adaptogen herb, strengthens the immune system, helps the body cope with side effects from chemotherapy and is a great jet lag tonic. Caution: use for short durations only. May aggravate anxiety, irritability and high blood pressure.
• Glucosamine sulfate (GS), a nutrient derived from sea shells, contains a building block needed for the repair of joint cartilage. GS has significantly reduced symptoms of osteoarthritis. All published clinical investigations on the effects of GS in people with osteoarthritis report statistically significant improvement. Most research trials use 500 mg GS taken three times per day. Benefits from GS generally become evident after three to eight weeks of treatment. Avoid if you have any allergic reactions to shell fish. Glucosamine stimulates the production of the specific elements of cartilage and protects them. It helps your body repair worn cartilage, reduce pain and improve function. Chondroitin attracts fluids into proteoglycans, the molecules dispersed through out the cartilage that give the tissue its shock-absorber quality, and protects the cartilage against breakdown. These are substances the body already produces for itself in small amounts.
• Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): attributes its healing power to its high content of silica and zinc. This common weed works well for arthritis, particularly in synergy with dandelion root.
• Licorice: Thanks to the compound glycyrrhizin, Licorice is very effective in reducing inflammation. Furthermore, glycyrrhizin inhibits the production of enzymes that cause arthritis. Basically licorice acts like a corticosteroid (arthritis medication) without the side effects. You can find licorice supplements or prepare a tea, but keep in mind that if you have high blood pressure, headache or heart problems, you need to avoid the herb.
• Nettle: Nettle is a great herb for those suffering from arthritis. It is known to ease pain, reduce inflammation and promote bone health thanks to some of the minerals found in the herb. It is also beneficial because it inhibits the growth of dendritic cells, which are linked to arthritis. Studies show that applying the leaf of the herb onto the aching area will reduce pain and inflammation the most. However, this might be slightly uncomfortable for some people, so they should probably stick to nettle leaf tea instead.
• S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) possesses anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and tissue-healing properties that may help protect the health of joints.SAM-e is derived from methionine, an essential amino acid; it may promote cartilage formation and repair. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are usually sold together. In clinical studies, the supplements had to be taken for several weeks before providing any pain relief. Don’t forget the truly natural and proven methods for battling osteoarthritis, lose excess weight and exercise.
• Turmeric: Turmeric is a traditional ayurvedic remedyand medicine that has been researched for its ability to promote a healthy inflammation response, support cardiovascular health, and support normal cell growth. An effective anti-inflammatory. Dosage: 400 mg three times daily; take on an empty stomach and combine with 1,000 mg of bromelain
• Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea villosa): is very beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. This dried root is known for its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. This root works in wonderful synergy with White Willow Bark.
• White Willow Bark: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. White Willow bark has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Extracts providing 60-120 mg salicin per day are approved for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Although the analgesic actions of willow are typically slow-acting, they last longer than aspirin.

DIY Herbal Formulas for Arthritis

Ginger Liniment Recipe

This healing massage oil is a terrific arthritis pain reliever for muscle aches and stiff joints.

• 2-inch piece fresh Ginger
• 1/2 cup Almond oil

Grate Ginger and combine with oil in a small, nonmetallic saucepan. Cover and simmer over low heat for 1 hour. Remove from heat and steep for another hour. Strain oil to remove bits of Ginger. Using a nonmetallic funnel, pour liniment into a four-ounce glass bottle with a tight-fitting screw top. Attach the following instructions on a gift tag:

To use for arthritis pain relief, gently massage the oil into affected area twice a day until symptoms have disappeared.

DIY Mustard Plaster as Arthritis Pain Relief Medicine

Here’s an old fashioned remedy that I use to relieve my arthritis pains. I make what you call a Mustard plaster.

To do this you need to mix together 2 parts flour with 1 part Mustard powder, then add some water to make a paste. Spread it on a clean cloth of some sort, fold it in half and press against the skin. Don’t put the salve directly on the skin since it can burn.

You can also use this to loosen phlegm or for sore muscles

Arthritis and Gout Oil

• 1 Tablespoon fresh crushed Rosemary
• 3 teaspoons Celery seeds crushed
• 1 large Chilli crushed
• 250 ml oil any Carrier Oil but canola

Sterilize jar, place oil and other ingredients [make sure it covers] close, shake place in sunny spot for 10 days shaking every day strain into dark sterilized jars.

Additional Natural Arthritis Treatments

• Switching to an organic diet reduces the chemicals in your body, which can help reduce the symptoms of arthritis. It is good to physically stay active as movement helps relieve pain as long as you don’t over-do the exercise. Use anti-inflammatory herbs and foods, as well as collagen-building supplements to help prevent further damage to your joints. Different herbs can relive the pain as well as reduce the swelling of the joint.
• Weight-bearing exercises can help to prevent osteoarthritis by increasing the strength of the muscles that give support to your joints. It is also necessary to have good posture for strengthening of healthy joints too.
• To reduce inflammation use turmeric, cardamon, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, chilies and cumin in your diet.
• Eating foods rich in omega oils can also benefit your arthritis as these foods that contain omega oils lubricate the joints and help to reduce inflammation.
• The consumption of raw juices is an effective and natural remedy for arthritis. Two specific types that come highly rated and recommended are green juices, as well as potato juice. In fact, potato juice has been used to treat the pain and discomfort commonly associated with arthritis for years on end. For potato juice, cut a potato into thin slices. When doing so, leave the skin intact. Place the potato slices in a glass of cold water and leave sitting for a few hours, overnight is best. Then drink.
• Baths are another natural way to treat the pain and discomfort often associated with arthritis. When using baths to seek relief, warm baths are advised. In fact, cold bathes can result in increased pain, which is not the goal. In addition to a traditional warm bath, many of those suffering from arthritis recommend adding about three or four tablespoons of Epson salt to the bathwater. Those diagnosed with arthritis should remain in a warm bath for at least thirty minutes.
• A vegetable-juice fast significantly reduces pain for many patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Carrot juice, celery juice, cabbage juice, or tomato juice can be used. Fast on nothing but the vegetable juice for one day during the first week to get started. Follow that by alternate fasting for two days during the next week (i.e., Monday and Wednesday) and three days during the third week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday). Don’t attempt any type of fasting without your doctor’s supervision, however.
• Warm olive oil massaged over the area is another easy and natural way to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. What is nice about this approach is that most individuals already have olive oil in their homes. When using warm olive oil, be sure to let cool a little, as olive oil that is too hot can result in painful skin burns. In addition to plain olive oil, sage, rosemary, or garlic can be diluted with olive oil, with about ten more parts of olive oil. When applied to the impacted area, relief should be felt immediately.

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