Effective Indian home remedies for Rheumatoid Arthritis in the hands, feet, knee and ankles.
Ayurveda has the best medication for Rheumatoid Arthritis pain and is regarded as one of the remedies for Arthritis in lower back (spine) and through out the other body joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or AmaVata
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which causes inflammation of the lining of the joints and causes pain, warmth, and swelling. The inflammation is symmetrical and this can destroy cartilage and bone, deforming the affected joints. As the condition worsens, the affected joints become more painful and in some cases it doesn’t remain functional.
In Ayurveda, AmaVata is described as a disease associated with Vata Dosha and accumulation of Ama (mal digested product) in joints. The accumulation of Ama in the body joints and body tissue leads to swelling, pain and stiffness.
It must also be noted that Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is similar to Amavata (an Ayurvedic disease of the human body joints).
Also, both the diseases cause pain, swelling, and affect the joints. But, RA is an autoimmune disease, which means RA occurs when the body immune system responds abnormally. Similar condition, known as Gout is due to elevated levels of uric acid in the blood.
It is said that an intake of incompatible foods (like fish with milk or milk products), drinking heavy dose of alcohol, an excess of daytime sleep or staying late night awake are some major causes of RA.
Not popular, but some believe that overindulgence of physical exercises and excessive sexual activity can also lead to this condition.
Remedy For Weather Arthritis Pain In Knees And Lower Back
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. Also, take a nap during the afternoon if possible.
- Regular exercise (mild) is another great way to strengthen muscles and joints.
- Yoga (Forward Bend Yoga Asana and Lotus Yoga Asana) can also be very effective in reducing RA pain and inflammation.
- Body massage done by a trained therapist has been said to increase the joint strength (bone).
Food Habits for RA and Gout
For RA and Gout, low-uric acid and Low oxalate forming foods (fruits, vegetables and beverages) is must.
Such people should also stop consuming meat or seafood and they should also stop consumption of any kind of alcoholic beverages.
Foods and drinks which are high in purines should be avoided.
- All kinds of alcoholic drinks, beer, vodka and whiskey.
- Meat, especially red meat, lamb, fish and pork.
- All kinds of organ meats, such as liver and kidneys.
- Seafood, especially river fish, shrimp, prawns, crabs, lobster, and sardines
- Carbonated drinks and high-fructose drinks, such as soda and fast food drinks.
In general. foods which have high fiber and low protein should be consumed daily. Sour, salty, spicy and fried foods should be avoided.
Herbs which are useful includes, Shallaki (Boswelia Serrata), Lashun (Garlic), Guggul (Commiphora Mukul), Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia), Turmeric, Sunthi (Ginger) and Kumari (Aloe vera). Triphala, Giloy, Neem and Bitter Gourd should be consumed on a daily basis.
Heat and cold
Many doctors recommend heat and cold treatments for rheumatoid arthritis. Both of these (heat and cold) has their own set of advantages:
Cold is said to curb joint swelling and inflammation. It is advised to apply an ice pack to the affected joint for 15 minutes at a time. Repeat the whole process for 4-5 times with at least a 15-minute break between two treatments.
Heat is said to relax the muscles and enhance the blood flow around the affected area. Use a moist, warm towel and wrap it around the painful area on the body for 15 minutes at a time. Repeat the whole process for 4-5 times with at least a 15-minute break between two treatments.
One must also make necessary lifestyle changes. Abhyanga is also highly beneficial in treating RA and gout.