What are the best arthritis natural remedies and the top arthritis treatment for those wishing to use holistic and natural health solutions? In this post you will discover 7 Top Arthritis Treatments in our Natural Remedies Guide.
What Are The Best Herbs In Our Top arthritis Treatment?
- Aloe Vera;
- Boswellia (or Frankincense);
- Eucalyptus Oil;
- Green Tea;
- Ginger Root;
- Turmeric (or Curcumin);
- Willow Bark.
These wonderful natural remedies are effective in the treatment of both rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Learn about these 7 incredibly effective holistic home remedies and the ways to use them and get a 3 stage, easy to implement, treatment plan. Commonly known as Sip, Soak, Scrub!
Natural remedies for arthritis have become the preferred option for many.This is mainly due to them being gentle, safe and effective. There has also been a great deal of research on the effectiveness of natural remedies when treating arthritis.
The vast majority of studies show that used in combination with prescription medicine, or as an alternative therapy, sufferers responded positively to natural therapies. The Arthritis Foundation has several articles about this research and promotes natural supplements and treatments.
I always recommend if you take prescription medicines you check with your doctor before beginning any alternative treatments.
Diagnosis of Arthritis
Arthritis diagnosis is usually based on medical history, physical examination, and a combination of diagnostic tests. Doctors begin by examining a patient’s symptoms — joint pain, stiffness, and swelling — as well as family history of arthritis. A complete physical examination identifies involved joints and range of motion. To verify a diagnosis, physicians commonly request imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs to detect joint deterioration or inflammation.
Blood tests are important, too, as they can identify certain markers that indicate particular types of arthritis, like rheumatoid factor or anti-CCP antibodies for rheumatoid arthritis. Sometimes joint fluid is obtained through arthrocentesis to test for infection or crystals of gout. This comprehensive approach helps ensure the correct diagnosis and guides optimal treatment for the patient.
Alternative Medicine Practices
Some other tactics that can be supportive when used in conjunction with traditional approaches.
- Ayurveda: Rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, Ayurveda emphasizes the balance of body, mind, and spirit. It divides people into three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—each defining physical and emotional traits. For arthritis, Ayurvedic practitioners might suggest particular dietary modifications, herbal medicines, and lifestyle changes based on the patient’s dosha. Popular herbs include turmeric (anti-inflammatory), ginger, and ashwagandha that can potentially alleviate pain and enhance mobility.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Research shows that acupuncture may help relieve pain and improve function by stimulating the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms. Treatment is frequently combined with other treatment therapies.
- Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through spinal manipulation. Chiropractic treatment has not been as rigorously studied in relation to arthritis, although patients occasionally experience pain relief and enhanced joint function after adjustments.
- Massage Therapy: Therapeutic massage can promote relaxation, increase circulation, and alleviate muscle tension. For arthritis, mild massages can alleviate pain and enhance joint movement. It’s important to have a trained therapist who knows your situation as an arthritis sufferer.
- Mind-Body Techniques: Practices like yoga, tai chi, and meditation can help manage arthritis symptoms by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. These methods can boost mobility, build strength, and enrich quality of life.
Dietary Considerations for Arthritis
- Dietary Supplements: Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, are often touted for their potential benefits in managing arthritis symptoms. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory agents, and glucosamine and chondroitin may help the joints.
- Herbal Remedies: Beyond Ayurveda, various cultures have developed herbal treatments for arthritis. Two herbs that have shown promise for treating arthritis pain and inflammation are boswellia serrata (frankincense) and devil’s claw. These alternative therapies can help many arthritis sufferers, but it’s important to be careful.
NOTE: Be sure to discuss any new treatment plans with your doctor before you begin any herbal or supplement regimen.
7 Incredibly Effective Natural Remedies For Arthritis.
We have assembled the following list of top arthritis treatments because each has been proven to be effective, safe to use and can aid both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
1. Aloe Vera – Top Arthritis Treatment.
Aloe Verais already widely known for its natural healing properties. This amazing plant is a miracle worker. It is incredible for all minor ailments such as cuts, scrapes and for softening the skin. However we love Aloe Vera because it is a natural and powerful anti inflammatory. It is due to the anti inflammatory properties Aloe Vera contains that makes us wild about this plant.
And because it is so incredibly effective for osteoarthritis and as a rheumatoid arthritis treatment1Oral administration of Aloe vera gel, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory herbal remedy, stimulates cell-mediated immunity and antibody production in a mouse model. It is also super easy to use!
There are many ways that Aloe Vera can aid arthritis sufferers in reducing arthritis pain. The easiest way is to utilise the raw plant. What we are looking for is the juice, or the sap, that is produced when you break the tips. This can be rubbed directly into the affected area and brings instant cooling.
Research has shown that continued use helps towards longer term pain relief and reduction inflammation. The gel of the Aloe vera plant can be also applied directly on swollen and painful joints. The gel will provide short term relief from joint immobility and pain, due to its anti inflammatory properties.
If you cant find the Aloe plant then a good bottle of organic Aloe Vera gel is effective for all types of arthritis. All that is needed is to rub it into the joints causing distress and pain. This simplicity is why the Aloe Vera is a top arthritis treatment.
Top Tip: For general health also try to add Aloe Vera juice to your diet – it is widely available as a supplement or as a drink in most good health shops!
2. Boswellia – Arthritis Natural Remedies.
You can’t beat the brilliance of Boswellia. It is truly worth the time spent trying to track it down! You probably know it as the more commonly used name, Frankincense.
Boswellia has anti-inflammatory properties. While in some areas it may be difficult to find, a good natural food or supplement store should be able to locate it for you. If you wish to source yours online then I recommend the following: Click for Boswellia Supplement.
It is the sap from the Boswellia tree that is used to treat both Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis. Boswellia supplements help by acting as a natural alternative to anti inflammatory medications They are said to be beneficial for those with arthritis due to the natural properties that block leukotrienes.
Leukotrienes are natural and are produced by our body. The problem is when we have overproduction because it leads to them attacking healthy joints. This is an autoimmune reaction and most commonly associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Boswellia is considered by some as effective as many nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs. In fact so powerful is Boswellia that it has an medical autoimmune disease classification. There are also research studies that indicate the anti inflammatory actions of the Boswellia are helpful and benefit those who suffer from Osteoarthritis.
You will usually find Boswellia as a supplement and topical creams and is one of our top arthritis treatments.
3. Ease Arthritis Pain With Eucalyptus.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil is widely available from good health food stores or suppliers of natural aromatherapy essential oils.It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and has been seen to help improve circulation.
The active ingredient in eucalyptus are the tannins, which are proven to be effective in helping to reduce swelling in all joints, but particularly the wrists, hands and fingers. Eucalyptus tannin relieves pain, reduces joint inflammation and provides temporary relief. It has been shown especially effective for the arthritis that impacts cartilage.
In 2013 researchers evaluated the impact of eucalyptus essential oil on pain management2Effect of Eucalyptus Oil Inhalation on Pain and Inflammatory Responses after Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Clinical Trial following total knee replacement.
While not specifically related to arthritis, this study concluded that inhaling of eucalyptus essential oil significantly lowered inflammation, pain, and blood pressure, all of which are helpful to arthritis sufferers. Arthritis sufferers are recommended to use Eucalyptus topical oils and creams. For maximum benefit after applying the oils or creams to the afflicted areas you should following with heat therapy.
Use this as a dual action approach by applying the Eucalyptus oil or cream to the afflicted area and then place a hot compress on top. Eucalyptus Essential Oil is a top arthritis treatment and highly recommended!
4. Ginger.
Yes Ginger. We know it better as a common household spice. Ginger takes its place in our top picks for both nutritious foods and arthritis natural remedies due to its treatment of inflammation.
Studies indicate Ginger is a hugely beneficial spice for the aiding of pain. This is due to its anti inflammatory effects. Add it to a tea. Add it to your physical therapy bath and let it soak and infuse.Take it finely sliced in salads. Add it to fruits and blend for a delicious arthritis soothing smoothie.
Note: Later when we arrive at our top arthritis treatment there is a recipe for an awesome tea which captures the best properties of ginger. Get the full recipe and use daily as a way to treat arthritis naturally and lesson symptoms of the disease.
5. Green Tea.
Not only is Green Tea one of most popular and healthy drinks ever, it has widely recognized anti inflammatory properties.
Initially Green Tea was primarily considered a natural treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis, however further clinical studies and research has shown that the anti inflammatory properties of Green Tea3Impacts of Green Tea on Joint and Skeletal Muscle Health: Prospects of Translational Nutrition are equally useful and effective for osteoarthritis.
Green Tea is probably known mostly as a drink, but don’t be fooled by this supermarket staple, it can also be used and is equally beneficial taken in tablet or tincture form.
Easy to find and easy to use. Go get Green Tea and feel great!
6. Turmeric.
If you thought this tasty treat was only used as a flavor enhancer in your favourite curries and dhalls… think again! Turmeric is hailed as one of the best of all natural arthritis remedies due to its extremely potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Early clinical research studies show that turmeric4Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Curcumin in the Inflammatory Diseases: Status, Limitations and Countermeasures (or curcumin as it is known medically) may actually slow the progression of arthritis, both Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid.
Studies indicate it is most potent when taken from the fresh natural root. Root turmeric is now commonly available.
Cut up chunks of the root and add to fruits to create your own arthritis treating smoothie. Add slices to a salad. Or, if brave, juice it separately and drink 1 tsp of the juice 2 times a day.
Beware, the juice from this little root is bright orange and if you get it on your clothes or skin, well … you’ll maintain that orange color for a very long time!
If for any reason you can’t find it in natural root form, or don’t want to go through the process of peeling, juicing or blending there is a brilliant alternative in the form of arthritis relieving turmeric supplements.
7. Willow Bark.
Note: Always ensure you take as directed.
Willow Bark is another of our chosen holistic arthritis remedies. It is most likely the longest used herbal anti inflammatory known and was chewed in the days of Hippocrates.
When using Willow Bark getting your dosage right is critical. The reason being is that if you take too much you can worsen levels of inflammation or develop an irritating rash!
If taken as instructed Willow Bark is incredibly effective. Don’t be tempted to take just a little bit more.
Clinical research studies indicate willow bark is effective as a natural treatment for both Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis4Efficacy and safety of willow bark extract in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: results of 2 randomized double-blind controlled trials. However it is excellent for the treatment of Osteoarthritis,particularly if affected in the neck, back or hips.
Willow Bark is taken orally as a supplement. Always buy from a trusted and reputable retailer. You can then be totally confident of quality and getting the dosage right. Click here for a wonderful willow bark supplement.
The Top Arthritis Treatments –Â Sip Soak & Scrub.
Step 1 – Sip Turmeric And Ginger Tea.
Servings – 4
Preparation time – 5 Mins
Cook time – 15 Mins.
Ingredients:
- Ginger Root – 1 Inch
- Turmeric Root – 1 Inch
- Water – 3 cups
- Add 4 cups of water to a saucepan and bring to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated turmeric to the boiling water.
- Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat and allow to gently simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the ginger and turmeric solids from your tea.
- Enjoy a mug of this tea 2-3 times per day!
Tip – If you cannot source fresh spice root you can substitute with dried spice powder (2 teaspoons each). However fresh is always best!
Tip – Add some honey or lemon if you require a flavor change or a sweeter taste!
Step 2 – Soak In Salt.
In this part of the treatment for arthritis we are going to soak in a bath of Epsom Salts.
Epsom salt contains a core ingredient needed to treat arthritis – Magnesium Sulfate. Magnesium Sulfate contains anti inflammatory properties. You can prepare this soak in a large bowl, but if the arthritic joint doesn’t fit comfortably in a bowl I suggest having a luxurious and long soak in the bath!
If soaking in the bowl – 125 grams of Epsom salt added to a large bowl of warm water.
If soaking in the bath – fill the tub with enough warm water to be able to comfortably submerge the arthritic area/s. Add 2 cups of Epsom salt and dissolve in the water.
Submerge and soak the affected areas for a minimum of 15 minutes. Believe me this is one of the best holistic remedies around! It’s relaxing and provides some quality short term relief from pain.
Step 3 – Scrub With A Eucalyptus And Peppermint Rub.
Eucalyptus and Peppermint essential oils are excellent for arthritis. They both have naturally occurring analgesic properties (pain-relieving). As well as providing pain relief they both also have an immediate cooling effect. This means that this third step of treatment provides instant relief (cooling) and long term relief (analgesic) from arthritic pain.
To prepare this scrub you need good quality eucalyptus essential oil, good quality peppermint essential oil, Rock or Sea Salt or for a rub (rather than scrub) a carrier oil (olive, grape or almond are best).
You also need to find a dark glass bottle to store (dark glass prevents light destroying the essential oils).
Eucalyptus and Peppermint Scrub
Ingredients.
- 2 cups Sea or Rock Salt
- 1/2 cup Carrier Oil – I prefer Coconut
- 1/8 cup Honey
- 5-8 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- 5-8 drops Peppermint Oil
As A Scrub: Combine all the ingredients and mix well. Easy!
As A Rub: Remove salt from the recipe. Replace with an additional 1/4 cup of carrier oil and combine with the coconut oil, honey and essential oils.
Use the salt scrub or the oil rub after the salt soak. Rub and massage into areas of pain. Let the treatment soak into the skin for a minimum of 15 minutes. If you are using scrub – rinse off with warm water. If you are using rub – wipe excess oil of the body with a soft dry cloth.
Note: Ther rub is also awesome as a massage oil, so go get some and enjoy applying it.
I hope you enjoyed this post and gain some comfort from our Top Arthritis Treatment Guide. If you try the suggested holistic remedies I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment in the thread below or contact me directly by clicking here.
You may also like to read my post on Aromatherapy Essential Oils for Arthritis.
Please do let me know if you try out top arthritis treatments and your experience with them.
Plus also I’d love your feedback or let me know if you are aware of any other arthritis natural remedies that should be added to our top arthritis treatment guide.
References
- 1Oral administration of Aloe vera gel, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory herbal remedy, stimulates cell-mediated immunity and antibody production in a mouse model
- 2Effect of Eucalyptus Oil Inhalation on Pain and Inflammatory Responses after Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Clinical Trial
- 3Impacts of Green Tea on Joint and Skeletal Muscle Health: Prospects of Translational Nutrition
- 4Efficacy and safety of willow bark extract in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: results of 2 randomized double-blind controlled trials.
