Arthritis is often a normal, bothersome and painful result of the again process. Different forms of arthritis exist, some more troublesome than others, but osteoarthritis is the most common type. It involves the degeneration of cartilage and cushioning between inflamed synovial joints, and is frequently caused by the normal wear and tear a body experiences over a lifetime. Homeopathic remedies for arthritis are sought due to the fact that existing arthritis drugs often fail to relieve pain and stiffness. Some people combine homeopathic arthritis remedies with medical therapies, but the individual's physician should be kept informed on the substances being ingested.
Herbs are some of the most popular homeopathic arthritis remedies. Black cohosh is a favorite of female arthritis sufferers who are menopausal, but little research has been performed on the substance. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should never take it. Celery seed is thought to help detoxify the body and improve circulation. Common dandelion greens, mixed in salads or brewed into a tea, are a homeopathic arthritis regimen said to increase flexibility and mobility.
Turmeric, known primarily as a cooking spice, has been used in arthritis relief for literally thousands of years. The spice was typically used in Middle Eastern and Asian countries, but has gained popularity in the west since the 1930s. Research appears to indicate that turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory. Willow bark, brewed into a tea, has been used as a homeopathic arthritis remedy since the early days of colonial America. This is not surprising, as willow bark contains salicylic acid, the primary substance found in aspirin.
Homeopathic arthritis remedies are often determined based on the severity and location of the afflicted person’s pain. Homeopaths sometimes recommend belladonna for arthritis that strikes quickly and involves sharp pains. Cayenne creams are applied topically to provide relief. The working ingredient in cayenne — capsaicin — provides short-term pain relief that has been confirmed in legitimate, double-blind studies. Powdered ginger, taken orally, is another homeopathic arthritis remedy that seems to function as an anti-inflammatory.
Lesser-known homeopathic arthritis treatments include packs of hot castor oil applied to the site of the pain. Hot baths in water steeped with hayflower are also suggested. It should be noted that these correctives have no basis in scientific fact, but they do not pose a health threat. The most well known remedy for relieving arthritis pain consists of wearing a copper bracelet. Thousands of people swear that wearing copper bracelets stave off arthritis pain, although it is unknown how many people making these claims happen to sell copper bracelets.