Arthritis can be debilitating, causing pain and inflammation in the joints. Though treatments exist, many people are skeptical about using mainstream medicines. Luckily nature has plenty of remedies that can alleviate the pain and help those suffering from arthritis to live a more active lifestyle. Here are five of the most effective treatments for arthritis. Let’s get started!
Aloe Vera
This plant has been used as a treatment for arthritis for thousands of years. Aloe vera reduces inflammation, and since arthritis is an inflammatory disease, it works great! This was proven in 2014 in research involving rats. When taken orally, this natural remedy may also help alleviate stomach problems that anti-inflammatory drugs can cause.
Mustard Seed
Mustard seed is a herb that could provide relief from joint pain. It has pain relieving properties that are beneficial for managing symptoms of arthritis. Take warm mustard oil and apply it to the swollen, arthritic joints. The heat produced can help improve blood flow to the area and offer patients relief from arthritic pain. Mustard is also an excellent source of selenium, magnesium, and omega-3, which have all been proven to improve the symptoms of arthritis
Olive Oil
Using olive oil instead of other fats like butter could help reduce arthritis symptoms. According to research published in 2014, the oil has a compound called oleocanthal that functions similarly to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that one might take for arthritis pain. Oleocanthal reduces the production of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which cause arthritis inflammation. Olive oil is also great for the heart and it’s rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants.
Frankincense
Frankincense is an extract that comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree.It is renowned for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used for thousands of years. This essential oil may be beneficial in reducing inflammation, joint stiffness, and muscle pain associated with arthritis. The extract can be consumed as a daily nutritional supplement. A 2014 study in the Minerva Medica stated that, people with arthritis who took supplements reported better improvement in their symptoms than those who did not take them.
Licorice
Licorice was found to be as effective as Advil, aka ibuprofen, against arthritis inflammation, according to a study published in 2014 in the Natural Product Communications journal. Another study listed licorice among the top natural remedies that can help better manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. But remember to avoid consuming licorice when using blood pressure medications, as it can reduce their effectiveness.
