The pain of arthritis can prevent you from enjoying many daily activities. Even with regular medical intervention, you may still deal with pain and swelling. That is why some arthritis patients seek to supplement their arthritis medical care with alternative solutions, such as herbs and spices.
Try a cup of piping hot ginger tea each day to soothe arthritis pain.
There are some herbs and spices that have anti-inflammatory properties and may relieve some of your symptoms. Of course, you should continue to consult with your doctor and pursue traditional methods of managing arthritis pain. None of these herbs will reverse arthritis damage or cure it, but they may help to manage pain and swelling for some patients.
Four herbs that may help relieve pain and swelling are:
Ginger
Many of us may have ginger in our spice cabinets, but did you know that ginger with its strong flavor also has anti-inflammatory properties? There have been some clinical studies done that suggest that regularly taking ginger pills or drinking ginger tea could help to reduce joint swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.
Green Tea
Green tea is one of the most popular drinks around the globe, and many cultures have used it over the years to reduce body inflammation. Some experts think that green tea might be able to be used to reduce arthritis inflammation. Try a few cups of green tea per day and see if you notice a difference.
Turmeric
This spice is used to make curry, and is derived from the plant of the same name. Research indicates that turmeric may help to reduce joint pain when it is taken in oral tablets. Lab studies on rats suggest that it may also slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Cat's Claw
This is an anti-inflammatory herb that may provide some relief in arthritis pain and swelling. Cat's claw is from a tropical vine, and it was used in Inca civilizations thousands of years ago to reduce swelling. Some studies suggest that the herb, taken in pills and tinctures, may help to reduce osteoarthritis pain and swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.
As you try these herbs to reduce the pain and swelling of arthritis, also consider some of our traditional products to soothe your pain. One is the Polar Ice Hot or Cold Therapy Glove, perfect for applying hot or cold therapy directly to your sore hands:
