There are many herbs and natural remedies for arthritis on the market today, but which ones work? With so many people suffering from symptoms such as swelling and stiffness, it makes sense that some would turn toward natural remedies.
There are a number of lifestyle and dietary changes that may help to ease symptoms and bring back comfort and mobility as well.
Essentially, Arthritis is a somewhat general term used to describe inflammation of the joints.
Arthritis is one of many rheumatic diseases that causes joint, tendon, ligament, bone, and muscle problems.
It is believed that arthritis affects over 40 million Americans.
It is also one of the most common causes of disability in the United States.
Although Arthritis is a general term that covers symptoms of over 100 diseases, there are three main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
Osteoarthritis is when the cartilage wears down and bones rub together causing friction, which results in pain and swelling.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an auto-immune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissue.
Gout is a painful illness which is caused by the improper elimination of uric acid which crystallizes in the joints and causes pain, swelling, and redness.
Arthritis symptoms include joint inflammation pain, tenderness, stiffness, swelling, redness and a sensation of warmth in the joint or even fever, rash and fatigue.
Lifestyle changes may include eating more histidine rich foods such as dairy, meat, poultry and fish.
Those with rheumatoid arthritis have been found to have lower levels of histidine in their blood.
Although the effects of supplementation have not yet been studied, it is possible that histidine supplements may be helpful.
Foods that contain sulfur like asparagus, garlic, onions and eggs are also very helpful, as sulfur is thought to help rebuild bone and cartilage.
Walking, yoga or pilates might also help to loosen stiff joints and keep weight down which often times aggravates arthritis.
Natural remedies for arthritis include but are not limited to the following supplements: Glucosamine, Boswellia, Methylsulfonylmethane - MSM, ginger, cayenne, nettle leaf, cat's claw, and omega 3 fish oil supplements.
Glucosamine is thought to help rebuild cartilage.
It is believed that MSM may relieve pain as well as cayenne in cream form.
Nettle Leaf, Fish Oil, Ginger, Boswellia and Cat's Claw are all thought to help reduce inflammation.
Lastly, many do not realize that swelling and joint pain may be caused by food allergies or intolerances.
Some have found that switching to a mainly vegetarian diet has helped.
Others avoid certain kinds of meat, dairy, wheat or corn and have found relief.
Take control of your symptoms and do your best to manage them, whether that be through diet, medication, exercise, herbs or natural remedies for arthritis.