Ayurvedic Medicine Treatments for Arthritis

Ayurveda is a holistic approach to healthcare with roots dating back to ancient India. Inflammation and pain associated with arthritis is said to be helped by these Indian remedies. Though ancient in practice, recent medical studies confirm ayurvedic as a natural cure for arthritis.

The American College of Rheumatology reported a study that looked at using a combination remedy of plant extracts to treat arthritis. In this double-blind trial of almost 100 people suffering from osteoarthritis, 50 percent of study participants taking the combination of ginger, turmeric, ashwagandha, and frankincense (Boswellia) experienced significant improvements in pain relief and mobility. Only 20 percent in the placebo group reported relief.

A previous double-blind study using the same herbs studied 182 people with rheumatoid arthritis. Those using the herb combination experienced a marked improvement in stiffness, pain, and function and also the reduction of severity in swollen joints when compared against those who took a placebo.

While researchers say the herbs can take four to six weeks to see positive results, they also say that the herbs retain their therapeutic use over a number of years without needing to increase dosages.

Although people don't commonly think of turmeric, ashwagandha, frankincense and ginger as medicinals, these components have a long therapeutic history for the natural treatment of arthritis and other joint related problems. Even though individual herbs have action on their own, traditional Ayurvedic medicine combines them for a more profound effect.

Research conducted in India studied the combination of frankincense, ashwagandha, zinc and turmeric. Of the 42 participants who had osteoarthritis, those receiving this combination experienced a significant reduction in disability and pain.           

Ayurvedic practitioners, as well as Western doctors, know that a well-rounded treatment plan is the best approach to controlling arthritis. While herb arthritis combinations help, these benefits will be greatly improved by following healthy living practices that also include relaxation, a balanced diet and exercise.

Along with using ayurvedic as a natural cure for arthritis, incorporate these in your arthritis treatment plan;

-Fasting is beneficial for the ama, the toxic by-product of improper digestion.

-Twice daily drink a cup of warm water with two teaspoons of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey.

-A body massage will help reduce the vata, reducing the pain you may be experiencing.

-Avoid spicy foods, fried foods and sweets.

-Avoid consuming too much tea, coffee, alcohol, sugar, yogurt, cocoa and chocolate.

-Avoid excessive smoking. Better yet, try to quit.

-Avoid afternoon naps and staying up late at night.

-Try to ease away any anxiety, fear, stress or grief.

-Regular exercise is an important part of healthy lifestyle. When exercising, do know your limits and gradually begin any new exercise. As a general rule, if exercise causes pain, you have pushed past your current limits.

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a system of healing common that originated in India and means the "science of life and longevity.” Ayurveda is a holistic and qualitative science of longevity and health and is a philosophy of healing the whole person - spirit, mind and body. Ayurveda is favored among arthritis natural cures as a holistic and balanced approach to healing.

Ayurveda also understands that each individual is unique, and can address specific health issues while also offering an explanation for why people respond differently to the exact same treatment.