8 Natural Remedies to Manage Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes a person to experience severe pain in the joints like the knees and elbows. In osteoarthritis patients, the cartilage present in the joints wears down over time, resulting in the degeneration of the joint muscles. While doctors may prescribe or recommend pain relief medications for managing the condition, some natural remedies can also help counter osteoarthritis.
Here are some natural ways to manage this joint condition:
Aloe vera
Aloe vera has been known for its healing properties for generations, and even health professionals recommend it to be used as one of the most effective natural remedies for several disorders, including osteoarthritis. Apart from helping relieve inflammation and certain skin conditions, aloe vera is useful for soothing joint pain.
Boswellia
Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, is a tree that is indigenous to India and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The gum of the Boswellia tree consists of boswellic acid, which is known to help soothe the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and osteoarthritis.
Cat’s claw
Cat’s claw is another effective natural remedy for osteoarthritis that is derived from the bark and root of a tropical vine indigenous to South and Central America. It is mostly used to help reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with different types of arthritis and can also boost immunity. It is known to suppress what is known as the Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF).
Ginger
Ginger is a helpful natural remedy for several health issues, thanks to its strong healing properties. It is used to relieve pain in arthritis patients, and long-term use of ginger can also prevent the risk of disability that may accompany osteoarthritis.
Turmeric
Turmeric, like all the other remedies in this list, is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains an active compound known as curcumin, which helps reduce pain and stiffness in the joints, providing significant relief to arthritis patients.
Green tea
The polyphenols present in green tea are great anti-inflammatory agents, and they also increase cartilage protection in the affected joints. This natural remedy can be taken in the form of tea, supplements, or a powder form sprinkled on food.
Eucalyptus
The eucalyptus plant contains tannins, which are extremely effective for reducing osteoarthritis symptoms like swelling and pain. Apart from taking it orally, aromatherapy with eucalyptus oil is known to ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Thunder god vine
Going by the scientific name Tripterygium wilfordii, the thunder god vine herb is useful for managing inflammation and excessive immune activity. Due to these properties, this herb is known as a powerful natural remedy for soothing the symptoms of osteoarthritis, other forms of arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. However, when using this natural remedy, you must note that some parts of the plant may be medicinal, but others are toxic to humans.