Ayurvedic Arthritis Treatments

Arthritis is basically a medical condition in which an individual suffers from joints pain. It is caused by damage to the joints and has become quite widespread in the present day world. Many people above 55 years of age are suffering from arthritis today. There are different from of arthritis, of which the most common one is osteoarthritis (also known as degenerative joint disease). Though the treatment of arthritis is available in allopathy, homeopathy and other medicine systems, ayurveda is gaining more and more popularity day by day.

 

As per Ayurveda, the term Arthritis can be used to define joints pain, caused by aggravation of vata (air) dosha and the excessive collection of ama(toxic by-product of improper digestion) in the body of an individual. When ama increases in quantity, it starts getting deposited in the weaker areas of the body. When it starts accumulating in the joints and at the same time, aggravation of vata takes place, the result is amavata, in the other words arthritis.

 

In Ayurveda, the treatment of arthritis centers on the digestion of ama and reduction of vata, simultaneously. Along with that, efforts are undertaken to reduce the pain as well as the inflammation of joints. The major steps, recommended under Ayurveda, for arthritis treatment are:

 

 

Arthritic people must take special care of their diet. Under Ayurvedic treatments for arthritis, people are recommended to eat such food that does not lead to the creation of gas in the body. They should also avoidhot, spicy and fried foods as well as sweets. Things like tea, coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate and cocoa should be taken in moderation. The other tips to be kept in mind while planning a diet for diabetic patients are:

 

 

Given below are the names of the main herbs used in Ayurveda for arthritis treatment, along with their potential benefits.

 

Turmeric, known as Haldi in Ayurveda, is quite beneficial for arthritic people. Its oil, when used on the sore areas, acts an anti-inflammatory agent and alleviates pain.

 

Asafetida, known as Hing in Ayurveda, is to be taken either with coconut oil or ginger paste. It also provides relief from inflammation.

 

Garlic, known as Lehsun in Ayurveda, has been found to have anti-arthritic properties. When taken daily, in small doses, it helps in strengthening the immune system and clearing ama.

 

Ginger, known as Sunthi in Ayurveda, helps in alleviating arthritic pain. It can be applied over the problematic areas, in the form of a paste.

 

Licorice, known as Yashtimadhu in Ayurveda, is effective as an anti-inflammatory agent. Chewing a piece of licorice will help in the lessening of joints pain.