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Diet for Arthritis

Submitted by Stella Morgan on July 9, 2010

Herbs for arthritis can play an important role in relieving pain. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. Some herbs act as natural muscle relaxants or anti inflammatories or anti spasmodics. Others provide relief by repairing injuries. Yellow dock and celery seed detoxify the joints. Angelica can be used for osteoarthritis problems.

Devil’s Claw, Willow and Meadosweet are inflammatory herbs which help to relieve pain. Ginger tea and ginger compresses help to reduce swelling. Alfalfa is a popular herb that people use to alleviate arthritic symptoms.

It is best to drink herbal tea made with it rather than use the powder. Arnica when applied externally soothes soreness and inflammation. It is good for treating tissue damage, trauma and inflammation.

Ginseng tea is helpful too - do not use Asian ginseng as this aggravates the condition. Licorice has anti allergic and anti inflammatory properties. Oregano is a powerful antioxidant which helps relieve both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Other useful herbs are Angelica, Black Cohosh, Boswellia, Hops, Mustard Plaster, Stinging Nettle, Rosemary and Turmeric.

Vitamins for Arthritis: Given below are some vitamins that are beneficial for arthritic persons. Do consult your doctor however before taking any of them.

Vitamin B3: helps reduce tissue swelling and increases blood flow

Vitamin C: It acts as anti inflammatory and relieves pain

Vitamin B6: Also reduces swelling

Vitamin E: It is a strong antioxidant and increases joint flexibility.

Vitamin D: Research has shown that this vitamin helps to protect older women from rheumatoid arthritis. Good sources of this are milk, orange juice, sardines, herring and salmon

Vitamin B12: This aids digestion and helps to protect the nerves, in cell formation and myelin production.

Vitamin B5: Assists in reducing swelling.

Supplements for Arthritis: Certain supplements have also been found beneficial in treating arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially good for the joints. They can help curb inflammation and thus help in both types of arthritis. Sources are tuna, salmon, mackerel, trout, nuts, canola oil, green leafy vegetables, soy products, seeds and beans. Vitamin C and Vitamin D as mentioned earlier are good supplements too. Calcium and magnesium are beneficial as well. Try and incorporate these supplements into your diet.

Several people turn to home remedies to treat arthritis. A few of them are: applying one cup of pineapple juice to the affected area. This helps to reduce swelling and inflammation. Mix ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder with lukewarm water. Drink this twice a day. Applying sandalwood paste is another natural cure for arthritis.