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Osteoarthritis is a disease of the bones in which your joints are affected and this can cause pain and stiffness. It is affecting nearly 27 million Americans. It occurs mostly in the knees, hips, lower back, neck, small joints of the fingers and bases of the thumb and big toe. The underlying reason for Osteoarthritis is this. In normal joints you have a firm, rubbery material called cartilage. This covers the end of each bone. Cartilage provides a smooth gliding surface for the joint to move. But for a person suffering from Osteoarthritis, this cartilage breaks down and causes pain and swelling and stiffness. You have herbs to fight Osteoarthritis pain.
As per statistics, 44 million US women and men aged 50 or older are prone to Osteoarthritis. However, by taking calcium rich food, vitamin-D intake, protein supplements and with the reduction of alcohol and smoking, Osteoarthritis can be prevented to some extent. Or after the attack of the disease, your medical practitioner can be of the best help.
Natural treatments have proven to be a good solution to the ill-effects of Osteoarthritis. There are herbs that might come to rescue with the symptoms caused by the bone disease. They may not be a permanent cure for osteoarthritis, but you may get relief from the pain and swelling can help in the better extension of arms and legs.
Some Herbs To Fight Osteoarthritis Pain Are
1Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is capable enough of subsiding inflammation and pain. It is a master in increasing the flexibility of the joints too. Drinking aloe juice can reduce the build up around the joints through detoxifying. Aloe juice has a compound known as ‘Acemannan’ which can be soothing to the joints. Regular consumption of Aloe juice can enhance joint lubrication, guarding the joints from further damage. Aloe juice also nourishes the joints. It can also cleanse the digestive system so that the nutrients can be absorbed more effectively, which can be a blessing for joint wellness.
2Eucalyptus
Just similar to Aloe Vera, the Western markets are stocked up with eucalyptus. This herb is usually taken orally. It is also used in various medications that make an oral consumption. For you, the good news is with the leaves of eucalyptus. The tannis available in these eucalyptus leaves initiates relief in the joints and helps in the cure of effects of arthritis. The pain and swelling that are an accompaniment of the illness are subdued with the help of eucalyptus leaves.
3Ginger
Ginger is known to be quite effective in the treatment of many major and minor ailments. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is always found in your kitchen store to add it in many recipes too. It adds flavor as well as has huge number of health benefits. It is used in medicines for treatment of a large number of illnesses.
It has the ability to dissipate the pain and swelling caused due to Osteoarthritis. It actually works like a natural pain killer. In a study conducted, consuming ginger showed a drastic improvement in fighting the disease. It can also assist you in reducing the effect of the symptoms of Osteoarthritis.
4Green tea
Green tea is one of the most popular Ayurvedic drinks that come in handy for a healthy living. It can work as an anti-inflammatory herb by reducing inflammation. It is by now been part of many medicines and treatments for its therapeutic properties.
According to a 2010 study, green tea has known to be proven to be a magical herb for treating the after-effects of osteoarthritis. This reduces the damage of cartilage and hence can prevent it. It may also lower the risks of fracture of bones caused due to the illness. You may drink at least 4-5 cups of green tea per day for astounding effects.
5Turmeric
Turmeric is a yellow herb used in cooking in the form of powder in the Asian continent. It is added in moderation in cooking for seasoning. It has anti-inflammatory properties like ginger and can help in combating joint pain that accompanies as a result of Osteoarthritis. It is taken orally for its therapeutic properties to work. Curcumin in the turmeric can act as an agent to protect bone health and prevents the cartilage from dropping down. Curcumin according to studies has proven in tests that the curcumin compound in it can regenerate the begone cartilage.
While using the above discussed herbs, you may find them to be complementary with the medicine or they may have side effects .
Before trying any of these herbs, you had better take the consent of your doctor if they could be effective or they have any side effects.You may be advised not to stop the medicines prescribed either. Other therapies can be massages, ice packs, heat packs, aerobic exercise and a healthy diet.