Herbal Remedies for Arthritis: A Basic Understanding

Herbal remedies for arthritis may be worth considering. Natural health experts expound on the effectiveness in relieving pain and reducing inflammation at the joints and surrounding muscles with the use of herbs. Here are some herbal remedies for arthritis that they say are effective.

What Are Some Of the Herbs for Arthritis

Some of the important herbal remedies for arthritis include Chinese Thunder God Vine, willow bark extract, feverfew, cat's claw and stinging nettle.

Reports indicate that ginger and willow bark extract can relieve arthritis pains very effectively. Their only drawback is that they contain chemicals that are similar to conventional NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-Inflammatory compounds). The NSAIDs as drugs have quite a few side effects. For example, they may cause inflammation of the stomach lining and intestines. Moreover, if the amount ingested is substantial, they can also interfere with blood clotting or cause fluid retention.

Because of these reasons, they are considered dangerous for people with high blood pressure or with heart diseases. In comparison to ginger and willow bark extract, Chinese Thunder God Vine appears to be better for arthritis as they can also relieve pain and joint inflammation pretty effectively. However, it is strongly recommended that they be not used over a long period, as prolonged usage may lead to osteoporosis, which may result in weak bones.

Herbal Supplements for Arthritis

Herbal remedies for arthritis can also be consumed as a supplement. If the above mentioned herbs are available in supplements from your local health store, do ensure that you stick to recommended dosage instructions.

Consuming Herbal Remedies in Other Forms

Other than supplements, you can always consume herbal remedies in the form of cleansing teas or soups. For teas, visit a herbal store to get help in choosing the herbs and mixing a concoction for you. You should always choose the best quality herbs as herbs can be of different grades.

Traditional Chinese Medicine also recommends boiling herbal remedies for arthritis to serve as a tonic soup or drink. You will need to consult a TCM practitioner as he will need to determine the type of arthritis that you are having before he can give you a herbal prescription. There are different forms of arthritis due to differing symptoms and complications. Because of this, different treatments are advised for different individuals.

Herbal remedies for arthritis are worth a try especially if you wish to find other means of reducing your pain and inflammation, other than through drug reflief. However, as with all of these treatments, you should go ahead with them only if your doctor thinks it is safe for you to do so. As it has been shown, herbal remedies for arthritis does not necessarily mean no side effects. You should always ensure that you comply with the recommended guidelines by your doctor.