Does that bad knee restrict your movement? Do you suffer from frequent arthritic pains? Arthritis is basically an inflammatory disorder, in which your joints become inflamed. It can be quite painful and insistent.
But all said and done, are there any simple home remedies that can cure or prevent arthritis altogether? You bet there are! And to know about them, you got to read this post!
You can alleviate arthritic inflammation by using either a hot pack or a cold bath. Arthritis responds quite well to the application of cold or hot packs. However, if you suffer from heart problems, keep the cold water therapy to a minimum, while if you suffer from hypoglycemia, you should avoid heat packs (1).
Crocus sativus Linnaeus, also known as saffron, is probably one of the most expensive and exotic spices. Ancient cultures used saffron exclusively as a medicinal spice to treat everything from cough and cold to inflammation and joint pains.
Saffron usually contains metabolites, which have anti-diabetic, antitussive and antioxidant properties. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory characteristics in the past, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis (2).
One of the most commonly used spices in India, turmeric features in 2/3rds of all home remedies for a variety of diseases. The magic ingredient it contains is called curcumin, a compound that is not only a strong antioxidant, but also an effective anti-inflammatory agent, making it an effective remedy for rheumatoid arthritis (3).
Chili peppers contain high amounts of the chemical capsaicin, that lends peppers their distinctly hot flavor. Capsaicin is a known anti-inflammatory agent. It has featured in many tests, and it is unclear how capsaicin helps relieve inflammation and treats rheumatoid arthritis, although researchers agree that capsaicin helps cure rheumatoid arthritis (4).
Usually found in pineapple core, Bromelain is an amalgam of digestive and proteolytic enzymes. The proteolytic enzymes are the ones that usually help reduce inflammation, making it one of the most effective cures for rheumatoid arthritis (5).
Crammed with natural analgesics that usually mimic NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), ginger is usually used to treat a variety of inflammatory disorders. Using ginger has another bright side; naturally occurring analgesics have fewer side effects. These abilities make ginger an effective cure for rheumatoid arthritis (6).
Dark leafy greens or cruciferous vegetables are rich in iron and other nutrients. They also contain high amounts of Vitamin E, a popular anti-inflammatory agent. Cruciferous vegetables also fight inflammatory agents like cytokines (7).
Vitamin C is usually associated to sour tastes. It possesses many antioxidant characteristics, making it an ideal fighter against allergens and infections. It also helps instigate Vitamin E activity, which is essential to reducing inflammation (8).
Processed grains are treated and usually don’t contain the required amount of dietary fiber. Fiber helps reduce C-reactive protein levels, which usually lead to arthritis. As whole grains are natural and unprocessed, they are crammed with dietary fiber. Thus, choosing the healthier option of whole grains can help you keep rheumatoid arthritis in check (9).
Think omega-3s and think fish. Even if you don’t, fish are crammed with omega-3 fatty acids. Oily fish is especially rich in omega-3s. Mackerel, Sardine and Salmon are some fish that are crammed with omega-3s.
Rich in calcium, dietary fiber and vitamins, nuts usually help reduce swelling and tenderness in the joints. Nuts also contain omega-3s and provide all the goodness of fish (10).
So, what are you waiting for? Add these amazing foods to your diet and don’t let rheumatoid be a pain in your life again. Tell us about your experiences of using these home remedies for rheumatoid arthritis pain! Leave a comment below.