Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and tenderness on the joints.

There are actually a hundred of different types of arthritis, two of the most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis which is the most common type causes wear-and-tear or damage to the joint’s cartilage. Cartilage — acts as a cushion to allow a frictionless joint motion.

However, if this is damaged, it can result in the grinding of bones, which causes pain and restricted movements.

A rheumatoid arthritis on the other hand, is a condition wherein the body’s own immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule (hard membrane that encloses the joint) to become inflamed and swollen.

The treatment for arthritis varies depending on what type it is. The symptoms of arthritis usually develop over time.

This is most common in adults over the age of 65, however, it can also happen to children, teens, and younger adults. Unfortunately, arthritis is found to be more common in women and people who are overweight.

The most common symptoms for arthritis in general are, joint pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness, causing restricted movements.

The majority of people with arthritis reported that their symptoms worsen and are more prevalent in the morning. The causes for arthritis also vary according to the type of arthritis.

Here are possible causes for your arthritis:

• Injury leading to degenerative arthritis

• Abnormal metabolism leading to gout and pseudogout

• Hereditary such as in osteoarthritis

• Infections such as in Lyme disease

• Immune system dysfunction

There are people who may be genetically more prone to develop arthritis. One’s diet and nutrition intake plays a big role in arthritis and your overall health.

There are certain foods that can trigger arthritis. Such as foods that can cause inflammation, specifically animal-derived foods and diets high in sugar worsens the symptoms.

A type of arthritis which is usually caused by diet is gout — this type of arthritis is caused by elevated levels of uric acid which may be due to a diet high in purines.

A diet high in purine such as red wine, seafood, and meats can trigger a gout flare-up.

Although there are several causes for arthritis, there are some factors that increase your chance of developing arthritis.

Family’s medical history - If one of your parents or siblings has this disorder, you may be more likely susceptible to develop arthritis. Your genes are a big factor in determining your medical conditions.

Age - As you age, your body slowly weakens.Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout are all types of arthritis that increases with age.

Sex - Women are more prone to develop theumatoid arthritis, while most of the people who have gout are men.

A history of joint injury - If you’ve had an injury affecting a joint, then you may be more likely to develop arthritis on the affected joint.

Obesity - This condition causes a person to carry excess pounds which will cause stress on the joints like your knees, hips, and spine. That is why people who are obese have a hugher risk in developing arthritis.

Here are natural remedies for arthritis you can use and partner with lifestyle changes:

See Also:

7 Natural Remedies For Restless Leg Syndrome

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Turmeric

This is a yellow-colored spice and medicinal herb. This is known to be popularized by India. This was traditionally used by indian medical practitioners or native healers.

The active chemical in turmeric is found to hold beneficial properties for arthritis. This starts from its plant form and into its powdered form.

The orange pulp found inside the stem contains a compound called curcumin — is said to contain anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.

Turmeric supplements may be a good addition to your diet since it helps with inflammation, cancer, and even depression.

Curcumin takes up the majority of the compounds found in turmeric. Since the curcumin is the most important component for anti-inflammation, you can try using curcumin-contained turmeric products.

An example of these products are turmeric tea, turmeric supplements, or as its natural powder form.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a plan that is used for its beneficial properties. Believe it or not, aloe vera isn’t just for skin conditions but also for alleviating joint pain.

Here are a few advantages in using aloe vera:

Relieves joint pain

This may actually be used in the treatment of Osteoarthritis or knee pain. This is because of its anti-inflammatory properties that helps prevent inflammation while providing relief.

Rich in Antioxidant Properties

The aloe vera plant contains rich antioxidant substances like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Flavonoids, Tannins, and Carotenoids. These substances help alleviate soreness and stiffness on the affected joint/s.

It can boost the immune system

Aloe Vera is said to have nutritional values which increases your body’s ability to fight infections.

Frankincense

This is actually a resin from the bark of the Boswellia tree. This has a strong and aromatic scent.

You can commonly see this used for incense, perfumes, and essential oils.

This may help with chronic inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

Borage Oil

Borage oil is found in the seeds of the Borago officinalis plant which contains large quantities of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) — an omega-6 fatty acid.

There is evidence that taking borage seed oil along with a combination of conventional painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications may decrease the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Eucalyptus

The eucalyptus oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. This is said to reduce pain and inflammation associated with several conditions.

Thus, it may also be helpful for alleviating joint pain. As a matter of fact, many popular over-the-counter topical creams and ointments used to soothe pain contain eucalyptus oil. This is due to the flavonoids and tannins in the eucalyptus leaves.

Ginger

This ingredient is popular amongst cooks, but it also has many medicinal benefits. Research suggests that ginger can ease arthritis symptoms like joint pain.

This ingredient has been traditionally used for treating nausea and several conditions. The strong flavor from ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for alleviating pain.

Cat’s Claw

This is also another anti-inflammatory herb that helps reduce pain and swelling. People have also traditionally used this herb to boost the immune system.

Based on the Arthritis Foundation, they noted that cat’s claw suppresses tumor necrosis factor and has the same effect as conventional drugs used for rheumatoid arthritis.

Cat claw appears to be safe when taken in small quantities. However, it is not advisable to use for pregnant women.