Natural Remedies for Arthritis

Arthritis is the name of any painful condition which affects the joints and which is one of the commonest causes of visits to the doctor.. Arthritis can make even the most simple daily activities such as walking a painful process.

Conventional painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs have many side effects and sometimes may result in a faster progression of the damage to the joints. Fortunately there are natural alternative remedies based on a combination of diatary changes, nutritional supplements and various body and mind therapies.

There are different types of arthritis which affect the bones, the joints and the ligaments. One of the most common forms is called Osteoarthritis which destroys cartilage and can deform bone growth and it is one of the main causes of disability in elderly people. Another type is called Rheumatoid arthritis which causes your immune system to attack the tissues.

It has been found that diet and nutrition play a very important role. The arthritis is affected by a diet lacking vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Moreover the use of excessive fried food or smoking cigarettes will release free radicals that can damage the tissues around the joints. The effects of free radicals can be counteracted by a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and D, zinc and selenium.  It is also very useful to eat red grapes which contain a powerful antioxidant called resveratrol.

Another important factor is weight because too much weight will put joints under pressure. It is important to lose weight and to stay slim and a vegeterian diet can be very helpful.

There are also some herbal remedies which can be very useful such as the following:

• Boswellia which is a small indian tree has been used for a long time in Ayurvedic medicine.  Research has identified many active ingredients in Boswellia which cause excellent improvements in pain and joint swelling.
• Curcuma is another substance used for a long time in Ayurvedic and Chinise medicine. It is a common ingredient used to make curries and known also as turmeric which has potent medicinal properties very effective with all forms of arthritis
• Devil’s Claw is another plant which benefits arthritis sufferersbecause it containa natural anti-inflammatory and pain relieving chemicals
• Pycogenol which is a Pine bark extract. It is a anti-oxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

You should also use nutritional supplements such as:

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin. They help the repair and regrowth of cartilage and are especially useful with Osteoarthritis.
• Celandrin which is a blend of fatty acids which can act as lubricants and decrease the inflammation.
• B3 Vitamins supplements are also considered very useful.

Finally it should be mentioned that gentle exercise is very important. Activities such as walking and swimming are especially useful and should be dome regularly.