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“Rheumatism” or rheumatic disease/disorder is a medical condition which is marked by immense pain, swelling and even inflammations in the joints, tissues and muscles. Though a medical condition, there is popular belief that rheumatic pain has a close link to the environmental weather, especially fluctuations or changes in the barometric pressure.

Many patients suffering from rheumatic pain have confirmed that cold or wet weather conditions only results in greater joint pain, whereas warm or dry weather helps to decrease the pain. The most commonly occurring ones are “osteoarthritis” which is caused by intense wear and tear taking place at the joints; and “rheumatoid arthritis” where the joint-linings are attacked by the immune system.

Research shows that almost three fourth of those suffering from “rheumatoid arthritis” are women. A disease affecting millions, rheumatism has several prescribed medicines. There are also some herbal remedies for rheumatism. Some of the noted ones are:

5 Various Herbal Remedies For Rheumatism

Celery

An accepted traditional medicinal herb, celery is known for its’ anti-spasmodic qualities, and has long been used for the treatment of joint pain and known to provide relief from it. Because of its anti-inflammatory, diuretic and analgesic properties celery is known to be able to cure both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and also gout.Clean and washed celery can be had directly in salads or as celery juice. Externally a solution can be prepared by boiling a handful of celery leaves in water and allowing it to cool for a while. This can next be poured over the affected areas and bandaged with cloth or wool. Keep it in that state for 2 hours for best results.

Licorice

A very effective herb, licorice acts on the inflamed parts by reducing free radicals, and restricts the production of enzymes. It contain ‘glycyrrhizin’ that is able to provide protection from inflammation. It further helps by assisting the body to release ‘cortisol.’Cortisol is able to moderate the immune system which acts as a prevention from arthritis. It can be taken as a tea twice a day, or alternatively in the form of capsules of 5-15gms. Licorice is known to have other side-effects, so it is recommended that a doctor be consulted before having this herb.

Turmeric

The turmeric herb is very effective in providing relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Known for its’ anti-inflammatory properties, it contains the powerful component, ‘curcumin’ and also curcuminoids, that helps to cure the disease and also acts as an antiseptic. It can be taken directly by adding it to regular diet, or as a supplement.It can also be added to a glass of warm milk and drunk once a day. For best results however, it should be rubbed on the inflamed parts in the form of a paste and then allowed to dry for some time.

Nettle

The herb nettle is rich in calcium, iron, beta-carotene and several essential vitamins and is therefore considered an essential remedy for arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in building stronger bones. Nettle leaves can be had in the form of tea, preferably two to three cups daily and also as a soup.However, a more potent treatment is to cut a part of the herb and rub it on the inflamed muscles and joints. This provides relief from the joint pain, as the stinging nettles is able to pull blood to the painful joints.

Guggul

This herb, also known by its’ English name- ‘Indian Bedellium’ is known to be having analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has therefore been used worldwide for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Its’ resin extracts have several bio-chemicals such as ketosteroids and diterpenoids, as well as chemicals such as linolenic acid and plamitic acid which help in providing relief.It is best used externally as a pasted, prepared by grinding a handful of leaves and boiling it in water. The paste should be warm when applied to achieve best results. 2-4gms of guggul can be alternatively added to warm milk and taken as a tonic.