Remedies for Rheumetoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes the body's immune system to attack the tissues surrounding the joints. The lining of the joints swell up, resulting in aches, pains and gradual deformity. Because the specific cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, there is currently no cure for it. However, many people are able to find relief from RA pain with homeopathic and home remedies.

Homeopathic Remedies

• Try lotions or creams containing capsaicin. Apply the lotion directly to the affected area to relieve minor joint pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Although capsaicin is the first homeopathic or herbal remedy we'll mention, it's certainly not the only one. Topical products that contain turpentine oil, menthol or camphor may also provide relief from minor symptoms.

  Take capsules of turmeric, feverfew or ginger for general RA pains. All of these herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling of the joints.

  Use the arnica herb for chronic arthritis that involves joints that feel bruised. Apply topical arnica ointments and gels directly to sore or inflamed areas.

  Take rhododendron capsules if your RA causes extreme soreness and swelling just before a rainstorm. You can also relieve any wandering pains with pulsatilla, kali bichromicum or aurum metallicum.

  Try ruta graveolens, dulcamara or calcarea carbonica for deep aches and lameness triggered by cold, damp weather. The calcarea carbonica herb can also contribute to helping with symptoms of fatigue, weak muscles and sluggishness.

  Keep in mind that while these herbs are not known to have any serious side effects, the effectiveness of these homeopathic remedies has not been seriously tested by traditional medical researchers. Always follow the manufacturer's directions listed on the bottle.

Home Remedies

• Exercise regularly. Getting regular aerobic exercise can strengthen the muscles around your joints as well as help you feel more energized. Walking and swimming are generally considered the safest and most effective types of exercise for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers.

  Eat a healthy diet. While there are no specific diet programs that work for all RA patients, many sufferers find they feel better when they eat a lot of fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Others swear by a high-carbohydrate and low-protein regimen. This diet eliminates all foods with animal origins, including milk and milk products.

  Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids. You can do this by eating cold-water fish, such as salmon and mackerel. Flaxseeds, walnuts and hemp oil also contain healthy amounts of omega-3. Try taking a fish oil supplement if you are following a low-protein diet.

  Eliminate or reduce your use of tobacco products and coffee. Both of these have unfortunately been linked to increased RA pain levels.

  Practice relaxation techniques. Meditation or yoga can help you keep balanced emotional and mental states, which, in turn, can improve your autoimmune responses. Some rheumatoid arthritis sufferers control their pain with hypnosis or guided imagery.

  Apply heat to your affected areas. Heat can temporarily ease your pain and relax your tense muscles. Stand in a hot shower or soak in a tub full of hot water for at least 15 minutes. You can also use an electric heating pad or a hot pack.

  You can also apply cold to dull the sensation of pain and decrease painful muscle spasms. You can soak your affected joints in cold water, apply cold packs or do an ice massage.

  Avoid overworking your joints. Work at a moderate, steady pace and avoid rushing around. Take rest or stretch breaks frequently so you don't become sore or fatigued, which can force you to back off all activity for a period of time. Be sure to alternate light and moderate physical activities throughout your day.