An alternative treatment for arthritis?

11 Comments

1. loneytraveler says:

   August 5, 2010 at 1:53 pm

   Find the warm-hot climate of Vietnam helps mine.
2. siedah m says:

   August 5, 2010 at 1:56 pm

   I met a guy a couple days ago who wore a copper bracelet and he said he has not suffered from arthritis pain in over 5 years. Good luck. Also, yoga is known to help relieve joint stress and ease arthritis pain in addition to all of the wonderful benefits it provides.
3. naturalchelsea says:

   August 5, 2010 at 2:27 pm

   I know that “Silky Scents” has already made blends with essential oils, or they have a free recipe section for arthritis. You can google their name to find them online.
4. wheeza7geeza says:

   August 5, 2010 at 2:49 pm

   An alternative to drug medication. Is that what you mean?The best one I have found is Glucosomine. I suggest you type in natural medicines for Arthritis.There are a number of combinations.Then of course there are the releiving creams such as Voltaren Emugel, Zostrix,Antiflamme etc.Very little in the herbal range actually works, for me anyway.But I hope it improves. Good Luck!
5. amembal4444 says:

   August 5, 2010 at 2:52 pm

   Acupressure massage helps relieve pain. A diet supplement of Chondroitin sulphate and Glucosamine sulphate is good to redevelop the cartilage thus facilitate movement.

   Some homeopathic medicines for arthritis are :

   Most of the major homeopathic remedies are useful to treat arthritis. Homeopathic remedies to relieve immediate pain and joint stiffness may include Rhus toxicodendron or Bryonia. What remedy is selected depends on the symptoms.

   Aconitum: 3X, every hour in rheumatic subjects with fever, restlessness, anxiety.

   Actea S – The arthritis is centered in the hands and feet. Joints are painful and swollen.

   Apis mellifica: 3X for much swelling, little pain.

   Arctium: 6X, every four hours for pain in joints, colalgia, neuralgia.

   Arnica montana – The person is in denial. Denies that anything is wrong and prefers to be left alone. Is nervous and overly sensitive. The person may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis related to cold, damp conditions. Soreness and bruising are problems.

   Belladonna – The pain strikes suddenly. The person does not like stimulus of any kind. The afflicted joints are swollen and red. The pain is “sharp” and related to chills or getting wet.

   Berberis vulgaris: 1X, every four hours for chronic synovitis of the knee.

   Bryonia alba: 3X for pain worse with movement, part sensitive to touch.

   Calcarea carlionica-ostrearum – The person is fearful and confused. Suffers from rheumatoid arthritis affecting the shoulders and upper back, which is made worse with wet or damp conditions.

   Chamomilla – Useful when the person is angry and restless. The pain is severe.

   Cimicifuga racemosa – The person is overly talkative and restless, appearing to be alternately happy and miserable. The pain appears more in the muscles than in the bones.

   Dulcamarta: 3, hourly for subacute rheumatism due to cold and wetness.

   Hepar sulphurls calcareum: 6, four d when suppuration has taken place.

   Kalmia latifolia: 3 T 3h for acute nonfebrile rheumatism with migratory pains.

   Mercurius: 12, every two hours for pain and swelling of joints, worse at night, profuse sweat, pericardial complications.

   Mercurius sulphuricus: 6, every four hours for rheumatic synovitis.

   Pulsatilla nigricans: 3X, every hour in women and children with pain worse by heat, better by cold.

   Rhus toxicodendron – The person is apprehensive and depressed, particularly at night. Lack of movement causes pain and stiffness. F

   Sulphuricum: 1-30, every two hours when the pains are worse at night, by warmth.

   THERE ARE SOME HERBAL MEDICINES ALSO :

   Many herbal remedies are useful for arthritic sufferers. Depending on your condition, and the availability of herbal products, some remedies might be more suitable than others. Fresh juices are more easily absorbed by the body and capture the whole synergistic complex of healing ingredients locked in the plant. Find the one that works best for you.

   Boswellia has unique anti-inflammatory action, much like the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used by many for inflammatory conditions. Unlike NSAIDs, however, long-term use of boswellia does not lead to irritation or ulceration of the stomach.

   Cayenne (Capsaicin) Capsaicin, the “burning” substance in cayenne creams has been used topically to relieve pain from osteoarthritis. The benefit from cayenne creams, generally containing 0.025-0.075% of the active ingredient capsaicin, has been confirmed in double blind research.

   Devils claw (Harpagphytum procumbens)-an analgesic and anti-inflammatory
   Dosage: one to two grams, three times daily

   Ginger (zingiber officinale)-acts as an anti-inflammatory
   Suggested Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg of powdered ginger daily
   Ginger Tea- Add one grated teaspoon of fresh ginger to a cup of hot water. Take two times daily.

   Horsetail: The silicon content of horsetail is believed to exert a connective tissue strengthening and anti-arthritic action in traditional medicine.

   Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)-an anti-inflammatory. Long-term use can elevate blood pressure and increase potassium loss.
   Dosage: one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon of a 5: 1 solid extract up to three times daily

   Turmeric (Curcumin (Curcuma longa))- an effective anti-inflammatory
   Suggested Dosage: 400 mg three times daily; take on an empty stomach and combine with 1,000 mg of bromelain

   White willow has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Although the analgesic actions of willow are typically slow-acting, they tend to last longer than aspirin. One double blind study found that a product featuring white willow (though also containing black cohosh, guaiac [Guaiacum officinale], sarsaparilla, and aspen bark) effectively reduced osteoarthritis pain compared to placebo. White willow products providing approximately 100 mg salicin per day are generally recommended by doctors of natural medicine.

   Yucca-has long been used to reduce arthritic pain.

   Cherries, hawthorn berries and blueberries: Cherries, hawthorn berries, blueberries and other dark red-blue berries are rich sources of anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins. These compounds are flavonoid molecules that give them their deep red-blue color. These compounds are remarkable in their ability to enhance collagen matrix integrity and structure.

   Celery seed extract-acts as an anti-inflammatory

   Castor oil hot packs-apply to affected joint

   Apply angelica root compress or add 5 drops of angelica oil to a hot bath to reduce spasms.

   Take 3 capsules of horsetail daily for two weeks each month to help rebuild bones.

   Acute Joint Inflammation:

   In the acute, inflamed stage, slowly start with movement exercises and hot, moist fenugreek packs on the painful areas. Take 1 tbsp. fenugreek seeds internally three times daily.

   For internal 10-day cleansing and to reduce inflammation, drink willow bark tea. Add 1 tsp. willow bark to 1 cup boiling water, steep for ten minutes, strain and drink unsweetened twice daily.

   Take a hayflower bath. Combine wild yam with celery seeds or willow leaves and make an infusion, strain and add to bath water.
6. Elusive in the Middle of Nowhere says:

   August 5, 2010 at 3:21 pm

   This is going to sound crazy, but someone I know uses horse liniment and kneads bread. She says that her arthritis gets really bad if she doesn’t work her hands.
7. Olga_i says:

   August 5, 2010 at 3:47 pm

   I have several natural and affordable options for you:

   http://www.mynsp.com/olga/products/guide.aspx?stockNum=8800
   ARTHRITIS REMEDY (1 FL OZ)

   Arthritis [Structural] is a natural homeopathic medicine for the relief of minor arthritis symptoms: pain, stiffness and inflammation of joints.

   Take 10–15 drops under the tongue every 10–15 minutes or as needed until symptoms improve; then decrease to every one or two hours, then to four times daily until symptoms are relieved.

   This medicine is not recommended for children under 12.

   Member Cost: $10.80
   Non-Member Cost: $16.20

   http://www.mynsp.com/olga/products/Categories.aspx
   Structural System Support products

   http://www.mynsp.com/olga/products/guide.aspx?StockNum=925
   EVERFLEX (60 TABLETS)

   Benefits:
   •Promotes joint health and normal function.
   •Helps lubricate joints.
   •May increase shock absorption in the joints.
   •Enhances flexibility.

   EverFlex® [Structural] offers the benefits of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and devil’s claw in one convenient tablet. Glucosamine helps maintain the integrity, lubrication and mobility of joints. Chondroitin promotes cartilage tissue generation and attracts fluid into the cartilage, making it more shock absorbent.

   Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a form of biologically active sulfur that is found in the human diet. Sulfur is important to joint health for a wide variety of processes. Devil’s claw has long been used to relieve joint pain and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity.

   Each 2-tablet serving provides a 1900 mg proprietary blend of glucosamine hydrochloride (from crab shells), MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), chondroitin sulfate and Devil’s Claw root.

   Take 2 tablets twice daily with a meal.

   Member Cost: $25.50
   Non-Member Cost: $38.25

   http://www.mynsp.com/olga/products/guide.aspx?StockNum=3535
   EVERFLEX PAIN CREAM (2 OZ)

   Benefits:
   •Enhances joint mobility and flexibility through pain reduction.
   •Relieves muscle and joint pain.
   •Provides penetrating, fast-acting help.

   EverFlex Pain Cream® [Structural] features the cooling relief of menthol plus a unique combination of cetylated fatty acid esters (cetyl myrsitoleate, myristate, palmitoleate, oleate, palmitate and laurate), olive oil and MSM. MSM is a great source of sulfur, an important structural component, while menthol is an approved active ingredient in many pain-relieving topical creams. This cream is easily absorbed through the skin for fast-acting structural support.

   NOTE: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. If condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than seven days or clear up and occur again within a few days, discontinue use of product and consult a physician. Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin. Do not bandage tightly. Keep out of reach of children.

   Adults and children 2 years of age and older: Apply to affected area not more than three to four times per day.

   For children under 2 years of age, consult a physician.

   Member Cost: $16.75
   Non-Member Cost: $25.15

   http://www.mynsp.com/olga/products/guide.aspx?StockNum=1806
   SKELETAL STRENGTH (150 TABLETS)

   Skeletal Strength® [Structural] is the key product formulated to provide nutrients necessary for proper structural system function. Skeletal Strength provides materials that the body uses to manufacture bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and skin.

   Member Cost: $12.95
   Non-Member Cost: $19.45

   Let me know if you have any questions.

   Olga Strickland
   Independent Distributor
   Olga_i@mynsp.com
   http://www.mynsp.com/olga

   The world leader in herbs and health supplements.
8. Jerry Lee says:

   August 5, 2010 at 4:31 pm

   Sylvia Browne (via newsletter) recommended
   1.5 *grams* of Niacinamide (Vitamin World has
   it) per day, with
   Calcium. It seems to be enough for me, and costs
   less than Glucosamine/MSM.
9. Chet says:

   August 5, 2010 at 4:35 pm

   If we offered you a miracle remedy that prevents and cures “Arthritis/Joint Pains” would you buy it? Certainly you would. You won’t find it in a Pharmacy but at the Grocery Store.

   Try the Natural Cures for Arthritis/Joint Pains.

   The word ‘arthritis’ means ‘inflammation of joints’. It comes from two Greek words, athron meaning joints and its meaning inflammation. It is a chronic disease process. In the early stages, the whole body is usually involved and one or two joints may become completely deformed, leaving the patient handicapped and somewhat weakened.

   Arthritis assumes various forms, the most frequent being osteroarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation is the main feature of arthritis, which is a reaction of the joint tissues to some form of damage or injury.

   Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease which usually occurs in the older age-group. It results from structural changes in the articular cartilage in the joints, usually those which are weight-bearing such as the spine and knees.

   The chief symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and stiffness in the joints. The pain usually increases after exercise. Other symptoms include watery eyes, dry neck, leg cramps, allergies, arterisclerosis, impairment in the functioning of the gallbladder, and liver disturbances. The possible causes include malnutrition, continuous physical stress, obesity, glandular insufficiency, calcium deficiency, and shortage of hydrochloric acid.

   Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease which affects not only the joints of the fingers, writs, hips, knees, and feet but also the muscles, tendons and other tissues of the body. The disease is due to an inflammatory process of the synovium or lining of the joints accompanied by swelling and eventual deformity.

   Rheumatoid arthritis is often called the ” cooked food disease.” It usually develops gradually over several months with persistent pain and stiffness in one or more joints. Ultimately the whole body is affected. Symptoms include anaemia, colitis, constipation, gallbladder disturbances, low blood pressure, and deformed hands and feet. The condition may be caused by hormonal imbalance, physical and emotional stress, infection, severe fright, shock and injury. Hereditary factors may also be responsible for the onset of this disease.

   Treatment: The diet of the arthritis patient should be planned along alkaline lines and should include fruits and vegetables for protection and proteins and carbohydrates for energy. It may consist of a couple of fresh raw vegetables in the form of a salad and at least two cooked vegetables. Cabbage, carrot, celery, cucumber, endive, lettuce, onion, radishes, tomatoes, and watercress may be used for a raw salad. The cooked vegetables may include asparagus, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, celery, brinjal, mushroom, onions, peas, beans, spinach, tomatoes, squash and turnips.

   In severe cases, it will be advisable to put the patient on raw vegetables juice therapy for about a week. Green juice, extracted from any green leafy vegetable, mixed with carrot, celery, and red beet juice, is specific for arthritis. The alkaline action of raw juices dissolves the accumulation of deposits around the joints and in other tissues. Fresh pineapple is also valuable as the enzyme in fresh pineapple juice, bromelain reduces swelling, and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Repeated juice fasts are recommended at intervals of every two months. The raw potato juice therapy is considered one of the most successful biological treatment for rheumatic and arthritic conditions. It has been used in folk medicine for centuries. The old method of preparing potato juice was to cut the potato into thin slices, without peeling the skin, and place them overnight in a large glass filled with cold water. The water should be drunk in the morning on an empty stomach. Fresh juice can also be extracted from potatoes and drunk diluted with water on 50:50 basis, first thing in the morning.

   Black gingerly seeds, soaked overnight in water, have been found to be effective in preventing frequent joint pains. The water in which the seeds are soaked should also be taken along with the seeds the first thing in the morning. Drinking water kept overnight in a copper container also serves the same purpose. This water has traces of copper which helps strengthen the muscular system. For the same reason wearing a copper ring or bracelet will also help. Warm coconut oil or mustard oil, mixed with camphor, should be massaged in case of stiff and aching joints. It will increase blood supply and reduce inflammation and stiffness on account of gentle warmth produced while massaging. Camphorrated oil is an ancient rubefacient used for the purpose.

   The time has also been used as a home remedy for arthritis since long. The citric acid found in lime is solvent of the uric acid which is the primary cause of arthritis. Other remedies found useful in relieving pains in the joints include green-gram soup mixed with crushed garlic cloves and a teaspoonful of powdered fenugreek seeds in warm water taken everyday. Sea bathing is considered beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. The natural iodine in the seawater is said to relieve arthritis pain. As is well known, iodine regulates the acid-alkaline balance in the blood and tissues, helps to repair and regenerate worn out tissues, and nourishes the skeletal structure. It enters into the thyroid gland’s secretion. The hormone uses this iodine to nullify germs in the bloodstream and to create a self- cleansing of internal toxemia.

   If sea bathing is not possible, the patient should relax for 30 minutes every night in a tub of warm water in which a cupful of sea salt has been mixed. The minerals in the sea salt, especially iodine, can be absorbed through the skin pores. This will help correct an internal imbalance. The body should be kept warm at all times. Joints should not be bandaged tightly as this limits movement and interferes with the free circulation of blood. There should be plenty of indirect ventilation in the bedroom. Rest is of greatest importance to arthritis, who should not overdo their work, exercise or recreation activities.

   Constipation should be avoided as it poisons the system and adds to the irritation and inflammation of the joints. Light exercises such as walking, hiking and swimming are beneficial. Maintaining a normal body weight is also an important factor in preventing arthritis. Obesity places excess stress on weight-bearing joints and interferes with the smooth functioning of tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

   The patient should be given a lukewarm enema for a few days to cleanse the bowels. Neutral immersion baths, hot foot baths, ultrasonic diathermy and exposure of the affected parts to infra-red rays, a knee pack applied for an hour every night, stream baths, and a massage once a week are beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. All general cold-water treatments, such as cold baths and cold sprays, should be avoided.

   The yogic asanas helpful in curing arthritis are trikonasana, bhujangasana, shalabhasana, naukasana, vakrasana and shavasana. Arthritis patients should practice these asanas regularly. Yogic kriyas like jalneti and kapalbhati and pranayamas such as anulomaviloma, ujjai and bhrameri are also beneficial.

   Hope this helps, Good Luck.
10. Arlene R-A says:

    August 5, 2010 at 4:36 pm

    I had severe hip and neck pain. Medical diagnosis was arthritis. I stopped eating all wheat and gluten products, and in 2 weeks I was almost pain free. that was 10 years ago, now only have minor pain if I accidently eat something containing wheat…soy sauce was the last culprit. It’s an easy and cheap way to test it…2 weeks…no wheat products or any thing containing wheat…and see if that helps. I think you’ll see a big improvement.
11. marie a says:

    August 5, 2010 at 4:42 pm

    Taking warm baths and showers on the joints will provide moist heat that reduces the pain for some time. Applying ice or any cold items like cold water bottle on the painful joint will provide temporary relief for 10-15 minutes. This is coldness method.

    When the joints are seriously affected, opt for joint immobilization. This method uses devices that help you to move the joint, without exerting any undue pressure on it.

    Massage is another method of arthritis treatment. It provides more blood supply and makes the muscles warmer.

    If the joints have been damaged very heavily, proper management of the disease is necessary. Here we use long term pain relief methods.