Ayurvedic Remedies for Arthritis

Ayurvedic Remedies for Arthritis

Arthritis is a common word denoting a wide range of diseases affecting joints resulting in pain and inflammation. Every joint is covered by a synovial membrane and bones are separated by a soft cartilage which works as cushion for joint movement. Any prolonged inflammation can lead to degeneration of joint cartilage and later on to deformity of the joint.

Some common types of arthritis:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis – affects multiple joints especially smaller joints of hands and feet. Pain and inflammation increases in periodic time intervals. Affects mostly females and causes are believed to be impaired immune system and hormonal imbalance.
2. Gouty Arthritis – sudden onset of pain in the midnight typically with an inflamed big toe lasting weeks. Gout is developed due to impairment of uric acid metabolism. A blood test will show elevated uric acid.
3. Osteo Arthritis - wear and tear of joints due to over exertion on a particular joint due improper posture, overweight etc. Normally affects single joint (e.g. Knee joint) or adjacent joints (e.g. Cervical  and Lumbar vertebrae
4. Ankylosing Spondylosis – otherwise known as bamboo spine where the joints of vertebrae fuse together and the spine becomes stiff. Reason believed to be impairment of immunity

The conventional treatment in modern science is mostly symptomatic and do not reach the root of problem. Most of above problems are treated with steroids, anti inflammatory and analgesic drugs. Latest trend is use of immunosuppressants like trexates. While administering these drugs it is mandatory to undergo periodical blood tests to monitor the effect of these drugs on vital organs like kidney and liver.

AYURVEDA – is the age old herbal medical practice originated from India and is conquering the western mind like YOGA did in the previous decade. Ayurveda explains many effective and safe herbs for treating various kinds of Arthritis. Some of them are;

1. Guggulu – derived from the gum of a medicinal tree, which has wonderful anti inflammatory, analgesic and fat reducing effects.
2. Rasna – a Vanda group of herb common in India is very effective in repairing and regenerating the cartilage tissue.
3. Satavari – Asparagus roots are used to correct impaired immune system

Other than many more oral medications as mentioned, Ayurveda also prescribes PANCHKARMA for chronic joint problems. Panchakarma is a series of different massage techniques by using various herbs and medicated oils along with periodic detoxing of system by laxatives and colonic cleansing. Panchakarma is believed to be the ultimate Detox and rejuvenation treatment for curing many chronic disorders. By periodic courses of Ayurvedic treatment, immune system can be repaired and rejuvenated and body becomes strong enough to fight joint diseases.