Arthritis is defined as swelling, stiffness and pain in joints. It is linked to stress and weak immunity. It is thought that the stress is related to a buildup of toxins, emotional distress and metabolic imbalances in the body. There are over one hundred types of arthritis. The following are the most common.
- Gout (metabolic)– Buildup of painful uric acid crystals in joints
- Infectious– Also called septic or pyogenic, occurs when there is an infection of the joints
- Juvenile– inflammation of joints in children, the origins of which are not understood
- Osteoarthritis– the most common type, affects joints, hips, hands and knees
- Psoriatic– A progressive inflammatory condition where inflammation occurs where tendons and ligaments attach to bone (entheses)
- Reactive– Arthritis that flares up in reaction to something in the body such as an infection, mainly occurs in joints, eyes and urinary tract
- Rheumatoid– Autoimmune disease where the immune system is overactive, attacking joints, spine, hands and feet
Typical home treatment is over the counter NSAIDs. More debilitating conditions are normally managed by prescription medication. But for those who wish to manage their arthritis holistically, please consider the following suggestions:
Herbal Remedies
- Aloe Vera– A soothing balm for people suffering from joint pain
- Bromelain– Enzyme found in stem and juice of pineapple, fights pain
- Cat’s Claw– Bark and root ease pain and swelling of arthritis
- Curcumin (Turmeric)– Anti-oxidant that reduces inflammation
- Devil’s Claw– Fruits have inflammation reducing properties
- Eucalyptus Oil– Has anti-inflammatory properties applied to the skin
- Green Tea– Has polyphenols that fight free radicals for cell health
- Ginger– Anti-inflammatory
- Indian Frankincense (Boswellia)– Reduces inflammation
- Pine Bark Extract– Soothes arthritis and improves circulation
- Rosehips– Anti-inflammatory properties
- Thunder God Vine– Prevents inflammation and swellng
- Willow Bark Extract– Contains Salicin, a pain reliever
Homeopathic Remedies
- Actea Spicata– Wrist pain and swelling
- Apis Mellifica– To reduce swelling in joints
- Arnica Montana– For tender joints
- Antimonium Crudum– Pain and inflammation in finger joints
- Bryonia– Joints red hot and swollen
- Calcarea Carbonica- Pain and swelling in knees
- Calcarea Phosphorica– Joint pain in cold weather
- Caulophyllum– All small joints painful and swelling
- Colchicum Autumnale– Joint pain that worsens with touch
- Ferrum Metallicum– Joint inflammation
- Ledum Palustre– Painful swollen ankles
- Lithium Carbonicum– Pain and swelling in small joints
- Natrum Sulphuricum– Joint pain in damp, cold weather
- Pulsatilla– Shifting pains in joints
- Rhus Toxicodendron– For relief of stiffness and pain in joints
- Ruta Graveolens– Pain and stiffness in feet and hands
- Sanguinaria Canadensis– Shoulder joint pain
Medicinal Mushrooms
- Chaga– Lessens inflammation
- Cordyceps– Enhances bloodflow & muscle recovery, helps rheumatoid arthritis
- Lion’s Mane– Found to have protective effects for osteoarthritis
- Reishi– Has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties
Nutrients and Supplements
- Chondroitin Sulfate– Promotes moisture retention and elasticity
- Enzymes– Anti-inflammatory used to break down waste products
- Glucosamine Sulfate– Aids formation and repair of cartilage
- Magnesium– Mineral vital to many functions. Most people are deficient.
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids– Lubrication and reduce inflammation
- Vitamin D
Therapies
- Acupuncture
- Dietary Changes
- Energy Healing
- Hot and Cold Therapy- Heat to ease soreness and stiffness, cold to reduce any swelling
- Massage
- Meditation to address pain
- Physical Therapy
- Regular Exercise
- Rife Frequency Electromedicine
- Sauna Therapy
- Tens Unit
- Weight reduction
Topical Treatments Applied to the Skin
- Aloe Vera
- Arnica Cream
- Capsaicin
- Eucalyptus
- Ginger
- Orange Oil
- Thunder God Vine
- Turmeric