Alternative Arthritis Medicine for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis that affects the cartilage surrounding your body's joints. It is often referred to as the "wear and tear" form of arthritis because it is mainly attributed to the deterioration of the joints due to long-term stress and strain. Alternative medicine can be beneficial in preventing further deterioration of your joints, and may help to combat many of the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Homeopathic Remedies

• Homeopaths frequently recommend a daily 16C or 30C dose of Bryonia for those who experience swelling and pain in their joints that is exacerbated with movement. When pain is described as tingling or shooting with accompanying numbness, a 16C or 30C dose of Aconite is recommended; and when joint pain is coupled with swelling and redness, a 16C or 30C dose of Belladonna may be prescribed.

Botanicals

• Boswellia has been a commonly used herb in Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years due to its ability to help fight both pain and inflammation. About 400mg of Boswellia two to three times daily can provide the same pain-fighting effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs without the possible side effects, such as stomach upset. Take 400 mg of Curcumin a day. Curcumin, which is found in both turmeric and ginger, has been a staple in Asia for generations to help combat the pain and inflammation often associated with arthritis.

Vitamins

• Supplementing with 1,200 mg daily of Glucoasmine may help repair damaged cartilage. Supplementing with 400 mg to 600 mg of SAMe daily helps to promote the production of cartilage in joints, which can help in reversing the determinative process of osteoarthritis. Supplementing with 800 mg of magnesium every day can reduce some of the pain symptoms of osteoarthritis by inhibiting a neurotransmitter known as Substance P, which is partially responsible for the signal of pain reaching your brain.

Tips

• Since osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but particularly weight-bearing joints, it's essential that to avoid exercises that involve, running, jumping or any form of stress on your joints. Instead, try low-impact exercise, such as strength-training or swimming. Avoid foods that contain trans-fatty acids, such as margarine and fast-foods, and foods in the nightshade family, including potatoes, tomatoes and peppers, which are known to increase arthritis pain symptoms.