Hands are one of the primary ways human interact with their world – from shaking hands to picking up the phone to typing away on a computer. They are incredibly important for nearly every activity of daily living. And yet most people take their hands for granted – that is, until something happens that causes pain – especially chronic pain – in the hands or wrists.
Fortunately, there are natural ways to help treat this kind of wrist and hand pain before it can take over and make normal, run-of-the-mill activities into real challenges that take up a lot of time and waste the day. Below, some of the best of these natural remedies is discussed.
Linseed Oil
One great way to help reduce wrist and hand pain is to consume one tablespoon of linseed oil every day. Within a month, a significant improvement in pain, stiffness and swelling will be noticed. This is because linseed oil is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which act as naturally anti-inflammatories. And because it is a plant-based source of Omega-3’s, it is a good choice for vegetarians or vegans. (1)
Fatty Fish
Consuming fatty fish – like salmon, tuna or sardines — on a regular basis is also a good way to help reduce pain or stiffness in the wrists and hands. This is because they, too, are good sources of Omega 3 fatty acids. However, be careful of overconsumption, as these fatty fish are also more likely to contain mercury. (2)
Cherries
Another really tasty way to increase flexibility and decrease stiffness in the wrists is to consume cherries daily or drink cherry juice. Cherries contain natural compounds which also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Be sure to get cherry juice that is 100% and organic. Cherry juice cocktails are often mostly water and corn syrup with little of the actual cherry juice itself! (3)
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 has many benefits, and has been shown to help reduce stiffness and pain in joints throughout the body, including the hands. It can be taken as a supplement or increased naturally in the diet by eating foods like leafy greens, oatmeal, bananas, chicken, tuna or pork. (4)
Fenugreek
These seeds can be purchased at any health food store. To use, soak the seeds in water overnight, then consume the seeds the next morning after discarding the water. Fenugreek is such an effective treatment because it is a good source of magnesium and has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. (5)
Green Tea
With all its other health benefits, it shouldn’t be surprising that green tea is great for joint health as well. If 2-3 cups are consumed daily, it will not only help to reduce inflammation, but also help to support and promote the strength and health of the bones. (6)
None of these treatments will work overnight. But if hand or wrist pain is interfering withthe things that need to be done on a daily basis, any of these cures are well worth considering as they can naturally reduce the inflammation that is the root cause of the pain and stiffness.
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