Effective Home Strategies to Alleviate Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Discover natural home remedies to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, including massage oils, turmeric milk, and cold-hot therapy. Learn tips to manage pain and inflammation effectively and safely. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting new treatments to ensure they are appropriate for your condition.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the body's antibodies mistakenly attack joint linings, causing swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. Affecting over 1.3 million individuals in 2018, RA has no single known cause, prompting many to seek relief through natural methods. Several home treatments can assist in easing pain and reducing inflammation.
Here are some natural remedies to help manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms:
Mustard oil with camphor
Warm one cup of mustard oil and mix in 10 grams of camphor until fully dissolved.
Allow the oil to cool to lukewarm, then gently massage it onto swollen joints. Mustard oil is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and pain-relieving properties, while camphor helps reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Olive oil with lavender essential oil
Warm a small amount of olive oil, add two drops of lavender essential oil, and massage onto affected areas. Olive oil contains oleocanthal and oleic acid, which can lower inflammatory markers in the body.
For a soothing home spa experience, lavender oil can be added for extra relaxation.
Turmeric-infused milk
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that helps lessen pain and swelling. Aside from culinary uses, you can prepare turmeric milk by adding one tablespoon of turmeric to a glass of warm milk. Drink this nightly before sleep for potential relief.
Apple cider vinegar with honey
Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and honey into a glass of warm water, and drink once daily. ACV offers anti-inflammatory effects that may decrease joint pain and stiffness. Soaking in an apple cider vinegar bath for 20 minutes can also provide relief.
Hot and cold therapy
Applying heat increases circulation and can ease joint stiffness, while cold constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling. Alternating between these therapies can temporarily relieve pain.
While these natural solutions can help, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended before trying new remedies to ensure safety and avoid allergies. RA often affects individuals after age 30, with symptoms typically appearing around age 60, and women are three times more likely to develop it. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity and proper nutrition play vital roles in managing the condition.
