Arthritis is the inflammation of joints, causing pain, stiffness and swelling. There are over 100 different types of joint diseases and conditions.
There are many different treatments for Arthritis, ranging from conventional medication to exercises. However, conventional treatments can often come with side effects. With natural healing gaining popularity in recent years, many have made a transition to Ayurvedic treatments for arthritis.
Before we take a closer look at Ayurvedic arthritis remedies, let's learn more about the causes and symptoms of this joint disease
Causes of arthritis:
There are two types of arthritis, namely:
-
Osteoarthritis:
This is the most common type, caused by wear and tear on the joints, leading to the breakdown of cartilage, cushioning the bones.
-
Rheumatoid Arthritis:
This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, pain and eventually, joint damage.
Arthritis can be a result of several factors, such as:
- Age: The risk of this disease increases with age.
- Genetics: If your family has had a history of arthritis, it can raise the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Injury: Previous joint injuries can lead to arthritis later in life.
- Infections: Certain infections can also trigger arthritis.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put stress on the joints, particularly the knees, hips and spine. This can lead to osteoarthritis.
- Autoimmune diseases: In such cases, the immune system attacks healthy tissues, causing pain and damage.
Symptoms of Arthritis:
-
Joint pain
-
Swelling
-
Stiffness, especially in the morning
-
Decreased range of motion
-
Redness and warmth around the joint.
The Ayurvedic Perspective on Arthritis: Dosha imbalances and treatments
According to Ayurveda, Arthritis is the result of Dosha imbalances: Vata, Pita and Kapha. All Ayurvedic treatment for Arthritis aims to holistically treat and balance all three doshas, bringing back the body’s harmony. Here’s how dosha imbalances can cause arthritis:
- Vata Imbalance: The Vata dosha is associated with movement, and air and space elements. When this dosha becomes imbalanced, it leads to dryness, coldness and instability in the body, affecting the joints and the bones. Factors such as excessive physical activity, mental stress, irregular eating habits and exposure to cold and dry environments can cause Vata-based arthritis.
- Pitta Imbalance: The Pitta dosha is associated with heat, metabolism, and fire and water elements. An imbalance in the dosha leads to inflammation in the joints, as well as a burning sensation and swelling. Causes include high stress, overexertion and consuming spicy, sour or fried foods regularly. Anger and frustration are also contributing factors.
- Kapha Imbalance: The Kapha dosha is linked to structure, lubrication and water and earth elements. When the Kapha is imbalance, it leads to stiffness, heaviness and the accumulation of fluids, causing swelling in the joints. A sedentary lifestyle, overeating, and regularly eating heavy, oily or sweet foods can aggravate this dosha.
Ayurvedic arthritis remedies:
If you are looking to treat your arthritis effectively, then here are 7 ways:
-
Ashwagandha:
This powerful adaptogen helps reduce inflammation and improves overall joint function. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and pain caused by arthritis. Ashwagandha can be taken either in powder or capsule form.
-
Shallaki:
Shallaki is known for having anti-inflammatory properties, and helps in preventing cartilage breakdown and reduces pain and inflammation in the joints. This herb is usually taken after meals.
-
Ginger:
Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties, and reduces joint pain and swelling. It can be consumed as a tea, through supplements or applied in oil form. Add some ginger to your daily diet for long-term benefits.
-
Turmeric:
Turmeric has curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing joint inflammation and pain effectively. It can be taken in powder form, added as a spice or taken as a supplement. It is mostly mixed with warm milk or water and consumed.
-
Eucalyptus oil:
This oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that are known to relieve arthritis symptoms when applied to the joints. It penetrates the muscles and joints, thus decreasing pain and stiffness. Massaging this oil gently on the affected joints can help with arthritis relief.
-
Dietary changes:
Eating foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, along with anti-inflammatory foods such as green leafy vegetables, and herbs like cumin, coriander and fennel are beneficial for arthritis.
-
Panchakarma Therapy:
This detoxification and cleansing process helps remove toxins, or ama from the body, balancing the Doshas and relieving arthritis symptoms.
Jamna Herbals’ Vatantak Gold Tablet:
Armed with powerful herbs such as Ashwagandha, Yograj Guggulu, Kutaki and Rasna, this Ayurvedic tablet for Arthritis helps reduce inflammation in the joints and provides strength to the muscles. Additionally, it also aids in improving digestive health and helps give an energy boost!
So, if you are looking to complement your Ayurvedic treatment for arthritis with an effective medicine, then try Jamna Herbal’s Vatantak Gold Tablet!