We can define arthritis as inflammation or swelling of tissues around the joints. This disease targets the joint areas of the body. They can affect one or multiple joints at a time. It stiffens the tissues around the joint areas which results in swelling and pain in the joints. There are over 100 different arthritis that have individuals symptoms and reasons to cause. There are many treatments for curing different arthritis. Degenerative arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, infectious arthritis, metabolic arthritis, thumb arthritis, septic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis are some different arthritis.
Arthritis reasons
Different arthritis raises because of different reasons. The cause can be because of an injury or an infection. It can also get inherited as well. The cartilage between the joints offers us proper minimal friction joint movement and works as a shock and pressure absorber for bones and joints. Some common arthritis-like osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between the joints gets reduced gradually due to which the bones grind directly with each other while performing any kind of movement that causes bone damage and swelling of the joint.
Another type of arthritis known as inflammatory or rheumatoid arthritis condition, when the body’s natural immune system works against the body. They attack the joints and cause inflammation in joint areas along with pain, making the movements not only painful but also difficult. Commonly seen in people starting age from 45 to 70.
Psoriatic arthritis appears because of the immune system. Here, the joint swells and stiffens the tissues causing rashes on the skin surface. We can see rashes on elbows, scalp, knee, or back of the body.
Infectious arthritis is because of infection caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. They normally enter the body through food poisoning or blood to a blood infection and attack the joint areas.
Symptoms and risk factor of arthritis
People of any age can have arthritis. The common symptoms that can be seen with arthritis are swelling of one or different joint areas, pain, and stiffness. Arthritis can get worse with time. It can make your activities more challenging, cause long-term pain, difficulties in climbing stairs, etc. Some arthritis can have severe effects on your body and future generations, too. Some can get riskier with age. Majorly females are the victims of arthritis. A study has shown about 65% of females have arthritis than males. Gout is more often seen in males. Arthritis can also be the reason for a permanent change of joints. It can also change the bone structures as well. It can also infect the heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, and skin. Fibromyalgia, lupus, headaches, poor sleep, improper memory function, back pain problem, lack of concentration, painful tendons are some effects of arthritis.
Cure arthritis with herbs
With medication for arthritis, there are various ways to cure it. But the easiest and most reliable way is to cure it naturally or herbally. These herbal treatments can be available as pills, capsules, creams, and gels. One should always consult with a doctor before using these herbal products. Let’s know about some herbs that can help to cure arthritis naturally.
Aloe vera – can be beneficial in curing arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera is also known for its super healing properties and is widely used for skin treatment purposes and reducing pain around joint areas. The anti-inflammatory property is commonly used for curing the pain of arthritis. It is available in pills, powders, and can be applied as a gel directly on the spot. Fresh leaves can also be used. One disadvantage of using aloe vera is that it can lower glucose levels.
Thyme – The plant can also cure arthritis pain because of its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and high antioxidant properties. The properties of thyme can be used for curing rheumatoid arthritis. The best way to intake thyme is by adding a few leaves to our foods.
Green tea – leaves of the green tea plant contain high antioxidant properties that can reduce joint pain and inflammation. It also protects the immune system as well. A study has shown that green tea is much more effective than black tea for curing arthritis. Because of its high anti-inflammatory nature. One can have a cup of green tea or iced green tea during a break or in the morning.
Willow bark – another powerful herb that can be used against arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial in reducing pain. It can be used for people having osteoarthritis and back pain issues. There are some side effects of willow bark that are stomach upset, high blood pressure, and stomach ulcers. So always consult a doctor before using willow bark for arthritis.
Borage seed oil – the seed of this plant is supplemented with gamma linoleic acid, which is a type of omega-6 fatty acid. It can improve joint pain, tenderness, and stiffness as well. In taking of this oil can reduce arthritis issues after 6 to 7 months.
Cat’s claw – it is a vine plant that is found in South America. It can improve the immune system and also have the properties to reduce inflammation. People having rheumatoid arthritis can use this plant for curing their pain. Pregnant women are advised to avoid this plant.
Eucalyptus – the oil of this plant contains antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties due to flavonoids and tannins. This oil can be used to reduce inflammation and joint pain. Few drops of this oil can be added to a warm water bath or can be inhaled as well. People who are allergic to it should take care while using this herb.
Boswellia – the gum of this tree is enriched with anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known as frankincense. It can cure gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. A gram of this frankincense can improve back pain and stiffness. Excess intake can damage the liver. This gum is available in the form of tablets, capsules, and creams.
Thunder god vine – this herb has been used for a long time in China, Korea, and Japan as a medication for curing inflammation and boosting the immune system. The property of thunder god vine can efficiently cure rheumatoid arthritis. It can be used either by direct intake or can apply to skin as a cream. There are also some major side effects of this vine. It can lead to a hair loss problem, can be the reason for headache, respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, and menstrual changes are some side effects. If this vine is used for a long time, it can deteriorate the bone density and can also affect the sperm count as well.
Turmeric – the yellow powder from this plant is exclusively used in flavoring and coloring food items. The curcumin present in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties which can cure osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis as well. It has been used for a long time in Ayurvedic and Chinese medication. If you want to try it simply add some powder to your food or you can use it in the form of tea bags. Too much intake can cause gastric problems.
Garlic – Garlic is another great option that can be used to reduce rheumatoid arthritis. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the pro-inflammatory cytokines. It prevents the cartilage from getting destroyed and also works on reducing inflammation. We can simply add some cloves of garlic to our diet for better results.
Conclusion
We always try to cure ourselves naturally before trying any chemical drugs or medicines. Using herbal products is always known as the best natural remedy to cure any diseases. With arthritis, there are also some natural ways to cure them. But some of these herbs have side effects that can cause some serious issues to your body.
For example, too much turmeric intake can cause a gastric problem, overdose of aloe vera can lead to diabetes, an improper way of in taking frankincense can cause liver damage, or having not enough knowledge while choosing any herb can also destroy your bones and sperm count in the long run.
You should need to have the proper information about the particular herb and the right dose. So it is always advised to consult a doctor before using any of the above herbs, as some can also cause infections and allergies too.