Arthritis refers to the inflammation of the joints, and because one of the symptoms of inflammation is pain, the pain associated with arthritis acts as a signal, telling us that something is definitely wrong inside our body. Aside from pain, a swelling of the tissues and structures around the joint may also occur. This further contributes to the worsening of the pain that you may feel.

In order for your doctor to be able to fully distinguish the severity of your condition, it is important that you, as the patient, must be able to give an accurate description of the pain. Pain is a subjective feeling – it varies from person to person. The level of pain that a person feels would depend upon his tolerance for pain. What may be really painful for me may not be the same for you. Pain may be described with the use of a pain scale with 1 being the least painful and 10 being the most painful. So the best way for you to help your doctor is to write things down. Keep a pain diary and list down when the pain occurred, how long it lasted, how severe it was and the type of pain. You may describe pain as aching, throbbing, sharp, stinging or burning.

Treatment for Arthritic Pain

Because arthritic pain is brought about by inflammation, your doctor may give you anti-inflammatory medications because once the inflammation is addressed, the signs and symptoms associated with it are also attended to. But keep in mind that pharmaceutical products are not your only option. There are safer and just as effective alternatives to taking synthetic drugs – minus the side and adverse effects, of course.

Nature has provided us with a lot of products for us to use and make use of. And this extends to utilizing herbs to facilitate treatment. The following are ten herbs which arthritic pain sufferers can greatly benefit from. Who knows, some of these are found right in your very own backyard.

1. Willow

   One of the most common drugs prescribed to arthritic pain sufferers is aspirin. Aspirin contain salicin which has both an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. However, the side effects and adverse effects associated with aspirin are not good at all. The good news is that willow bark is actually the herbal form of aspirin. It too contains salicin, mimicking the effects of aspirin. Willow bark is taken in the form of tea, and because it is in diluted form, there is lesser risk for irritation. Thus, the side effects such as ulcers and stomach upset are very, very minimal, if not non-existent, compared to tablet aspirin.

2. Cayenne

   Cayenne peppers give off heat that seems to have a warming effect to almost all parts of the human body. It also promotes better blood circulation, allowing nutrient-rich blood to go to the joints that are inflamed and promoting better healing. The heat also helps relieve pain in arthritis and can even help with low back pain. Aside from that, cayenne also has salicylates, very much like those found in aspirin, which promotes a pain-numbing effect. It also decreases substance P concentration. Substance P is a chemical that is utilized by our nerve cells in order to transmit pain messages. If pain messages are not transmitted, the sensation of pain will not be interpreted thus, pain will not be perceived.

3. Ginger

   Indian researchers have conducted a study focusing on the effects of ginger to patients suffering from rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. After the study, almost 75 percent of the study participants reported relief from signs and symptoms of arthritis, most specifically pain and swelling. Furthermore, those who took high doses of ginger did not report any adverse and side effects as all. Ginger tea and ginger compress may also be used by arthritis sufferers.

4. Ginseng

   For ginseng use, be sure to make use of the American ginseng and not Asian ginseng. Asian ginseng may actually exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Ginseng has ginsenodises – compounds that have various pharmacological effects which encompasses arthritis symptom relief.

5. Licorice

   Licorice acts similar to cortisone – without the side effects. Cortisone has been known to reduce inflammatory processes by decreasing swelling and pain. However, it has also been known to suppress the function of the immune system, making the one receiving it more prone to sickness. With licorice, you get the same anti-inflammatory effect minus the immune system suppression. But consult a professional herbalist before you decide to take licorice on a long-term basis. Long-term use may increase one’s blood pressure levels.

6. Wintergreen

   The American Indian tribes were the first one to use wintergreen in the treatment of arthritis. In 1820, the United States accepted wintergreen as an official arthritis medicine. Wintergreen contains methyl-salicylate which helps relieve pain. However, methyl-salicylate is toxic to the skin, especially when it is applied topically by salicylate-sensitive individuals. Be cautious when using topical preparations of the herb, such as its oil form. You may also use its dried form herb.

7. Oregano

   Oregano has rosmarinic acid – a compound with antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Its antioxidant property stands out because it helps combat free radicals, substances that have been known to cause cell damage and is involved in premature aging, degenerative arthritis as well as inflammation. Numerous studies have also been conducted, linking oregano use with arthritis relief.

8. Epsom Salt

   Epsom Salt is actually Magnesium Sulfate. Magnesium is a mineral that has anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers from New England had revealed that an arthritic pain sufferer can actually find comfort in an Epsom Salt bath. The heat helps in relieving the swelling and helps by promoting proper blood circulation all throughout the body.

9. St. John’s Wort

   For those suffering from the pain of arthritis, making use of the flowers of the St. John’s Wort is actually beneficial. Take the fresh flowers, infuse it with oil and apply over the painful area. The oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which help ease arthritis pain.

10. Lavender

    Lavender helps with pain relief by promoting a calm and relaxed mind, making one more able to bear the pain. Gently massaging the area with the use of lavender oil with rosemary can also help reduce pain and stiffness.

Sources
holisticonline.com
arthritis.org
arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com
anniesremedy.com
en.wikipedia.org