Rheumatism is not an isolated ailment but a collective term used for a number of ailments like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, cervical spondylitis etc.
It can be caused by several factors including infections, genetic factors and hormonal imbalances.
Some of these problems like rheumatoid arthritis are also an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body’s tissues. There is no cure for rheumatism in modern medicine but there are some herbal remedies for rheumatism which can not only lessen the pain, but also slow down the progress of the disease.
Various Herbal Remedies For Rheumatism
Celery Seeds
Take some celery seeds and grind them to a powder. Add one teaspoon to a cup of hot water and take before each meal. Celery seeds are used to treat several problems like indigestion, inflammation in the stomach etc.These seeds have potent anti inflammatory properties and hence help the inflammation in the case of rheumatism. This in turn reduces the pain. You can also boil celery seeds in some olive oil and massage this oil on the affected area for relief from pain.
White Willow Bark
White willow bark is a natural pain killer and has been in use due to this reason from the time of Hippocrates. It is best to take white willow bark in the powdered form. To know the right dosage, you must talk to an herbalist so that you know how much to take.It will give great relief from pain. In fact its pain relieving action is comparable to modern pain killers like aspirin and ibuprofen. This is one of the great herbal remedies for rheumatism.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a wonder root and is used for the treatment of various ailments. It is a very strong antibiotic and anti bacterial and hence is very useful for the treatment of infections ranging from common cold to more serious problems.
Turmeric also has potent anti inflammatory properties and hence is very useful in the treatment of rheumatism. You can either add turmeric to your food or consume it in capsule form. A topical application of turmeric mixed with olive oil will also act as herbal remedies for rheumatism.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is also a very effective natural pain killer when applied topically. Capsaicin creams are readily available in health food stores and can be applied on the affected area four times a day for as long as necessary.
Some people may experience a slight burning sensation when the cream is applied and if the burning is very intense you should discontinue the use of the cream. Otherwise capsaicin cream is excellent for getting relief from the pain of rheumatism.
Tripterygium Wilfodii Hook F
This is an herb which mainly grows in the south of China. It has been mentioned in Chinese medical documents as a remedy for joint pain. The recommended dosage is 60 mg per day for at least two months.In studies the patients being given this herb reported significant improvement in swelling, tenderness, morning stiffness, and grip strength. You can find this herb is stores selling herbal remedies for rheumatism and other ailments.