10 Herbs and Spices to Help in Treating Arthritis

Most of us think that arthritis is a disease of the elderly. That may be true to a certain extent, because the average age for diagnosis of arthritis is 60 years. But it can develop in younger people too.

Most often, arthritis begins in the small joints and slowly progresses to joint pain and swelling. Despite regular medical intervention, the swelling and pain usually persist among arthritis patients. Along with medication, there are many alternative approaches such as natural herbs and spices used in old fashioned arthritis treatments.

The herbs and spices that have been used in old fashioned arthritis treatments include the following:

1. Turmeric
Turmeric contains pain-relieving chemicals, such as curcumin and curcuminoid, and has been used in old fashioned arthritis treatments for a long time. It decreases inflammation and limits the progression of arthritis. To gain better benefits, you can consume turmeric regularly as a supplement.

2. Ginger
Traditionally, people depend on ginger to get relief from inflammation. The chemical properties in ginger lower the prostaglandin levels in the body, which reduces the impact of arthritis on the body. This makes it one of the most effective ingredients in old fashioned arthritis treatments. It has also been found that ginger is more effective than any non-steroidal drugs.

3. Eucommia
Eucommia bark has been used by Chinese medical practitioners to treat hip and joint pain. The chemical properties available in eucommia help in strengthening the bones, tendons, and ligaments. It also promotes the healing of injured tissues. However, if you have blood pressure issues, consult your doctor before starting any arthritis treatments that contain eucommia.

4. Burdock root
Fox root or Burdock root is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is available in various forms such as dried root powder, decoction, extract, and tincture. Old fashioned arthritis treatments recommend the consumption of burdock root twice a day.

5. Nettles
Nettles are extremely effective in various treatments for arthritis. The nutrient and anti-inflammatory properties of nettles ease arthritis pain and help to build strong bones. If you have overriding arthritis pain, apply nettles to your skin for relief.

6. Willow bark
Willow bark is one of the oldest herbs, which is commonly used for the treatment of inflammation of arthritis. You can chew willow bark to get relief from the pain caused by arthritis. You can also consume willow bark as a regular supplement.

7. Licorice
Licorice is rich with the chemical compound Glycyrrhizin. It usually blocks and relieves inflammation. Licorice roots are available in various forms such as dried, powdered, tablets, capsules, gels, and tincture.

8. Boswellia
It is one of the renowned anti-inflammatory herbs. Boswellia primarily blocks leukotriene, which triggers attacks on healthy joints in autoimmune diseases.

9. Cat’s claw
Cat’s claw is an amazing herb for treating arthritis-related swelling. It is very helpful in lowering the levels of uric acid in the blood, thus curing gout.

10. Thunder god vine
It is widely used in Chinese medicine. The root extract of thunder god vine suppresses an over-active immune system and is an alternative treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.