Arthritis is a common and painful medical condition that causes stiffness and pain in joints and bones. Modern medicine deems it as an incurable disease and the only option doctors have is to perform a surgery. While medical professionals do prescribe medications to ease the pain in these conditions, one can also choose the alternative way and give nature a chance.
This short guide will provide you with a natural option to ease pain caused from arthritis using a popular spice - Turmeric. Let’s look at this topic in detail and try to understand how it is an effective solution.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a widely used spice in South East Asia and has special importance in Indian culture and kitchen. It is also an effective and common homemade medicine for treating a variety of ailments ranging from treating flesh wounds and all the way up to boosting immunity.
The main and active ingredient in turmeric is called curcumin, which provides it with most of its potential health benefits. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have proven that curcumin offers a wide range of health benefits, including reducing inflammation and pain, improving heart health, and supporting brain function.
Turmeric is available in various forms, including fresh turmeric root, turmeric powder, and turmeric supplements. Moreover, you can also choose from a wide range of turmeric supplements in the form of pills, powder, or concoctions.
How turmeric can help with arthritis pain relief?
Turmeric's potential as a natural remedy for arthritis pain relief lies in its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to infection, injury, or irritation. However the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in people with arthritis. This results in chronic inflammation leading to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Studies conclude that curcumin, the main ingredient in turmeric, can inhibit various inflammatory molecules, including cytokines, chemokines, and lipoxygenase (LOX). These molecules contribute to pain and tissue damage in arthritis.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, curcumin may also have analgesic properties, which means it can also help reduce pain. It can inhibit pain signals in the nervous system and activate the opioid receptors, which help with pain relief.
How to use turmeric for arthritis pain relief?
Turmeric is an easily available spice and it can be consumed in various forms. It can be taken as a supplement or used in cooking as a part of your food. However, it is also important to understand the amount of turmeric one needs.
- Add turmeric to your diet: One of the easiest ways to use turmeric for arthritis pain relief is to make it a part of your daily diet. Turmeric powder can be added to smoothies, curries, and soups, while fresh turmeric root can be grated or chopped and added to meals. You may want to start with small amounts and gradually increase the dosage over time. It's also important to note that turmeric is better absorbed by the body when consumed with black pepper or fat, such as coconut oil or ghee.
- Drink turmeric tea: Turmeric tea is another way to consume turmeric for arthritis pain relief. To make turmeric tea, put 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric powder or grated fresh turmeric root in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Consider adding honey or lemon to enhance the taste because raw turmeric tastes a bit sour. You can try our premix Turmeric Latte Blend which contains turmeric and other healing spices with an awesome taste. It not only helps with arthritis but also acts as a comprehensive herbal healing solution for your health.
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Take turmeric supplements: Turmeric supplements are available in pill or capsule form and can be found in most health food stores or online. When choosing a turmeric supplement, look for a standardized extract that contains at least 95% curcuminoids. Always use a high-quality supplement from a renowned brand to ensure purity quality. Such as our Turmeric joint relief capsules that contain over 97.5mg of curcumin per capsule along with other vital ingredients.
While the dosage of turmeric for arthritis ranges between 500-2,000 milligrams a day, the correct dosage for turmeric supplements varies based on the individual and the form of the supplement. The best route is to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the right dosage for you.
- Apply it on your body: Turmeric can also be used topically to reduce inflammation and pain in specific areas of the body. To make a turmeric paste, mix turmeric powder with water or oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, to form a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the affected area and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water afterwards. Topping the turmeric past with other ingredients, such as ginger or honey, can have better overall effects.
Other changes to compliment turmeric
While turmeric may help with arthritis pain relief, there are several other lifestyle changes that can also complement its use and improve overall joint health. Here are some examples of how to do it:
- Regular Exercise: Exercise can help improve joint flexibility, strength, and range of motion. Low-impact activities, such as walking, swimming, and yoga, are good options for people with arthritis. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a physical therapist to determine the right exercise program for you.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight puts extra stress on the joints and also increases the risk of developing arthritis. Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce joint pain and improve joint function.
- Take a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and also improve overall health in the long run. Avoid processed foods, sugary or carbonated drinks, and alcohol.
- Practice stress management: Stress can act as a big contributor and worsen inflammation and pain in people with arthritis. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and also improve your overall well-being.
- Get enough sleep: Poor sleep can worsen pain and inflammation in people with arthritis. Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep schedule to improve sleep quality. It will not only help with arthritis but also overall health.
Conclusion
Incorporating turmeric into your diet is a simple way to potentially reap its health benefits, including reducing arthritis pain and inflammation. However, as with any supplement, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before adding turmeric to your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.