Relieving Osteoarthritis with the power of Ayurveda

Osteoarthritis (Sandhivata), a problem synonymous with old age which has now even affected the youths revolves around the condition wherein the joints of human body lack strength and flexibility. It also involves degradation of cartilages present in hips, knee, hands and wrist joints which results in stiffness, inflammation, and loss of movement. This makes it tough for the patients to perform even the daily bodily functions like walking, bathing, climbing stairs, etc.

For relief from the problem of Joint pain, especially from osteoarthritis, Ayurveda prescribes both Samana Chikitsa and Shodana Chikitsa. While on one hand, Samana Chikitsa includes herbal potions and medicine both for oral use and external body application; on the other hand, Shodana Chikitsa includes Ayurvedic Panchakarma and some yogic therapies for complete body detoxification and rejuvenation. Other than the customized ayurvedic plan as per the body needs of the individuals, here are a few dietary and lifestyle modifications along with some easy at-home herbal remedies that can hugely benefit the osteoarthritis patients:

• Choose foods that are easy to digest and warming.
• Excessive use of joints and underuse are both problematic, so get some easy joint exercise each day such as walking, swimming, and yoga. But remember not to overdo it.
• Do not withhold natural urges (such as burping, urinating, releasing gas, etc.)
• Use warm sesame oil to massage joints in the morning, this will improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation as well as stiffness.
• Set aside a teaspoon of fenugreek in a cup of water, overnight and then have this drink empty stomach next morning.
• Boil 10-12 slices of ginger in 8 cups of water for 5 minutes and let it steep for another 10-15 minutes. Drink this tea at a warm temperature throughout the day.