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Friction between bones or their rubbing against each other result inbone spurs, inflammation, pain and stiffness.It signifies the breakdown of cartilage in one or more joints.Normally cartilage acts like a cushion between the bones, letting the bones to glide over one another.
Yes, we are talking about Osteoarthritis which is called as the degenerative joint disease. It is the most common form of arthritis which mainly affects knees, lower back, hips, neck, small joints of the fingers, big toe and thumb.Old age, joint injuries, obesity, genetics, bone deformities accelerate the risk of osteoarthritis.
Natural Treatment for Osteoarthritis in Ayurveda comprises the use of herbs, home remedies and an appropriate life style. All these factors collectively contribute to slow down the signs of Osteoarthritis.
Natural Treatment for Osteoarthritis in Ayurveda
Herbal remedies
Methi (Trigonellafoenumgraecum)
It is an important herb in Ayurveda to
manage inflammatory conditions. It aids in eliminating the accumulated toxins (ama) from body. Additionally anti- inflammatory and muscle relaxant properties of this herb help to alleviate the pain and improve the joint movements.
Sonth (Zingiber officinale)
It is called as dry ginger commonly. This herb also works well in managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis like pain, joint inflammation and stiffness in joints.
Guggulu (Comiphora mukul)
This herb has great medicinal importance in Ayurveda to manage the inflammatory conditions. It possessesanalgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce joint pains and swelling. On the other hand, it helps to reverse the degenerative effects occurring in bones and joints.
Haridra (turmeric) (Curcuma longa)
Curcumin, bioactive compound present in this herb has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also packed with anti-oxidant properties that helps in healing joints and bones.
Home remedies
Fenugreek
Being packed with vitamins, essential minerals like calcium, iron and phosphorus use of fenugreek seeds are an effective home remedy for osteoarthritis. All these nutrients promote the healthy bones and tissues health. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties reduce pain and swelling
How to use
- Consume overnight soaked fenugreek seeds in the morning. Do it twice daily.
- Consume one teaspoon of fenugreek seed powder along with a glass of warm water twice or thrice.
Hot and Cold Compresses
Hot compress aids to lessen pain and stiffness whereas cold compress helps to reduce swelling and inflammation.
How to use
- To prepare a hot compress, wrap the hot water bottle in a thin towel.
- Place the hot compress on the affected joints for 3-4 minutes.
- To prepare acold compress, wrap a few ice cubes in a thin towel.
- Replace it with cold compress and let it only for 1 minute.
- Do it for 15 to 20 minutes a few times daily.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a good source of magnesium that helps to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation in osteoarthritis.
How to use
- Add 1/2 cup of Epsom salt into warm bath water.
- Soak body in it for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Do it twice or thrice in a week.
Note: People with kidney or diabetes problems should avoid it.
Green Tea
Consumption of green tea helps to delay progression of osteoarthritis. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce joint pain and swelling.
Dietary guidelines
Consume vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, beans, turnip, peas, garlic etc.
Consume vegetables like banana, guava, kiwi, papaya, dates, dried fig etc.
Suggestions
- Avoid spicy and junk food.
- Don’t consume carbonated drinks.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
