Natural Remedies for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Although the major pharmaceutical companies would prefer you not know this, there are natural means to alleviate the aches of arthritis without the use of dangerous drugs.

This article will give you a broad overview on these alternatives.

First, one of the natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis that is often overlooked is simply exercise. Obviously, when you are suffering from joint pain and fatigue, you often do not want to exercise. But, if you can begin a doctor supervised regular exercise program, you will find that you have more energy and less pain.

Water aerobics is particularly popular for those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Pain relief is experienced because exercise stimulates the production of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins block pain and help improve one's mood. Other natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief include a variety of herbs and botanicals that are naturally analgesic (pain relieving) and/or anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling).

One of the natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief is valerian. Valerian is sometimes recommended by herbalists for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief and, indeed, was used traditionally by Native Americans to treat pain. However, the phyto-chemical compounds found in valerian have not been studied for anti-inflammatory effects. In addition to providing rheumatoid arthritis pain relief, it may help those who suffer from the disease to get a good night's sleep. It is a known sedative and is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. Those with liver disease should not use valerian. Withdrawal symptoms have been experienced by people who abruptly stop using it.

Natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis should be purchased from a herbalist or doctor of naturopathic medicine; plants and herbs can have side effects, and it is important to be aware of these before use.

Another of the natural remedies is mullein. It is believed to be an anti-inflammatory and was used traditionally by Native Americans for pain relief. Only the flowers and leaves are used. The seeds contain a toxin that may cause skin irritations or rash.

Among the oldest known natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief is comfrey. Salves composed of comfrey root were used historically by native peoples throughout the world to reduce swelling, promote healing of broken bones, and for arthritis. Today it is still recommended by herbalists and naturalists to reduce inflammation. In order to provide rheumatoid arthritis pain relief, reducing inflammation is the key.

Comfrey should not be used by pregnant women and there may be other side effects. As previously mentioned, it is important to consult a herbalist or other expert schooled in herbal and natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief before you begin use.

One of the most exciting natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief comes to us from the rainforests of Thailand. This remedy may also be the safest for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief, since it is a fruit. Known as the mangosteen — sometimes referred to as "Queen of Fruits" — it was used in traditional Asian folk medicine to treat a wide array of ailments, but was particularly effective as a pain reliever. According to Dr. J. Frederic Templeton, a primary care physician, "The mangosteen's benefits span a wide range of effects: anti-inflammatory (stronger than indomethacin)..."

Indomethacin is a powerful non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug, prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis pain relief and a variety of other conditions. Dr. Templeton's statements are supported by scientific research from around the world. A puree of the mangosteen is taken as a health or dietary supplement and is not known to have any side effects.

About The Author:
Mike Leuthen is chief editor of www.restore-your-health.com Visit his site for more information on health conditions A to Z.