How do you soothe an aching joint at home?
Joint pains are most often associated with arthritis or the inflammation in the joints that causes stiffness and pain.
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA), wherein cartilage breaks down, resulting in bones in the joints to rub together. The friction causes stiffness and pain among patients.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is caused by joints being attacked by the immune system and thus is considered an autoimmune disorder. OA and RA share the same symptoms but are very different conditions.
Signs and Symptoms
The OA and RA often manifest in the hands, fingertips, knees, hips, neck, and lower back. Symptoms would include pain, tenderness, stiffness, and inflammation.
OA is often centered on symptom management. Most often, lifestyle changes, medications, home remedies provide relief from pain, stiffness, and swelling. Exercise, weight loss, adequate sleep, and hot and cold therapy to relieve muscle pain and stiffness can help alleviate the symptoms.
Turmeric and sting nettle are also herbs that could ease joint pain.
Turmeric
Turmeric, or "Indian Saffron" is a known ingredient for curries and teas. Traditionally, it is used by Indian healers for healing. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, may help alleviate arthritis symptoms.
Studies suggest that it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective properties. It is also known to relieve symptoms of cardiovascular diseases, infections, depression and anxiety, and cancer. Curcumin supplements can interact with medication, thus ask your doctor before taking when on prescribed medication.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle was used by ancient Egyptians in treating arthritis and lower back pain, while Roman troops rubbed in on themselves to stay warm. The fresh leaves can cause a temporary burning sensation. It offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, which are excellent antioxidants. It also reduces inflammation, such as arthritis. Other benefits include controlling blood sugar and lowering blood pressure. Pregnant women should avoid consumption, as it triggers uterine contraction. Be careful in handling fresh leaves as it causes itching, redness, and swelling.
Consult your doctor if you are taking the following medications: blood thinners, blood pressure medication, diuretics, diabetes medication, and lithium.
Teas with turmeric and nettle sting
Numi Organic Tea
The Numi Organic Tea has turmeric, ginger, and licorice and rose.
Numi Organic Tea
The Republic of Tea Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea
The Republic of Tea Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea is a combination of ginger, cinnamon, honey, turmeric, and green tea.
The Republic of Tea Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea
Traditional Medicinals Organic Turmeric with Meadowsweet & Ginger Herbal Leaf Tea
This tea has a comforting, earthy, and savory taste with a hint of spice. Herbalists have combined turmeric, meadowsweet, which is also suitable for soothing pains and ginger, which provides a warm, soothing effect in every sip.
Traditional Medicinals Organic Turmeric with Meadowsweet & Ginger Herbal Leaf Tea
Yogi Teas Joint Comfort
Each teabag contains green tea, turmeric root, lemongrass, and peppermint leaf to comfort that ailing joints.
Yogi Teas Joint Comfort
Traditional Medicinals, Organic Nettle Leaf
Traditional Medicinals, Organic Nettle Leaf
Traditional Medicinals Organic Nettle Leaf prides itself as a pleasantly-refreshing drink. The herb, despite its prickly reputation is traditionally known as tonic that supports joint health.
Alvita Organic Herbal Tea Bags, Nettle Leaf
Alvita Organic Herbal Tea Bags, Nettle Leaf
Nettle Leaf Tea Organic 24 Bag Alvita Nettle Tea is made with premium-quality organic nettle leaves, with an invigorating, grassy flavor. Nettle is known for its culinary and health benefits. It is also used traditionally to improve the health of the joints.