5 Herbs and Spices to Relieve Joint Pain and How to Use Them

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Millions of people suffer from rheumatoid or osteoarthritis or other form of joint disease which causes pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation in the hips, knees, hands or shoulders, among the most commonly affected areas. This can greatly reduce quality of life for sufferers of any age and many mainstream treatments are simply not adequate to the task of symptom management. Below, however, are herbs that can help reduce the pain and inflammation of joint disease.

Turmeric

Nothing can be said about herbal joint pain control without first talking about turmeric. The active ingredient in this deep gold Indian spice is called curcumin and it is an extremely powerful anti-inflammatory, which makes it wonderful for treating joint pain. You can add it to your diet by using the spice in food or drink, as a supplemental pill, or even topically if you rub a paste of turmeric powder directly into the effected joint.

Dandelion

Most people think of dandelion as being a detoxifying or purifying herbs or as a natural diuretic; it is all those things, but it also can help with joint and even muscle pain. Dandelion, too, contains anti-inflammatory properties which make it a useful part of treatment for arthritis as well as conditions like gout. It is best when used as an infused oil, applied directly to the joints.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is another great remedy to consider if you are suffering from joint pain or stiffness. It is one of the richest plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, which also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that go a long way to reduce arthritis symptoms. You can add the ground flaxseed to hot or cold cereals or smoothies, for instance, or take a flaxseed oil supplement.

Ginger

The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger come from gingerols. These powerful compounds, which have been tested in the treatment of both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, have been found to be very effective at reducing joint pain and stiffness and increasing mobility and suppleness. It is best when added to foods, drunk as a tea or applied as a compress directly to the affected joints.

Cayenne Pepper

Capsaicin, the ingredient in cayenne pepper which gives it its characteristic heat, is also great for relieve joint pain and stiffness. It is not an anti-inflammatory like the other treatments discussed, but acts on the sensory nerves to help improve the most frustrating symptoms of arthritis and other forms of joint pain. It is used topically in gels, oils or creams.

So if you are looking for natural, gentle but effective management of joint pain and stiffness, consider the use of these herbs and consult with a naturopath or similar practitioner for more information on what form and dosage would be right for you.

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Rosalina
Rosalina is a topic that Tracy particularly enjoys covering. Rosalina loves studying the latest trends in cosmetics and skin care, but her experience extends further than that. Rosalina writes on all aspects of beauty - hair and skin care, makeup, tips and tricks and product reviews.