By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience
Doesn’t joint pain affect your daily activities and routine? Whether it’s arthritis, injury, or simple wear and tear, natural pain relief herbs help alleviate inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort. In this blog, we take an inclusive plunge into the best herbs for joint pain, which not only provide effective relief but also foster the health and flexibility of joints.
The Best Herbs for Joint Pain Relief
Turmeric
One of the most famous herbs for joint pain is Turmeric. This golden herb contains a compound called curcumin, which is anti-inflammatory in nature. Turmeric reduces the inflammation of joints, which helps increase flexibility and decrease the pain gradually, especially among people who suffer from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This natural herb for joint pain can be taken either by ingestion or as a supplement. Mix turmeric with black pepper to increase absorption due to the presence of piperine in black pepper, which enhances the properties of curcumin.
Ginger
The other powerhouse is Ginger, which has been mainly responsible for relief from joint pains. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features help in reducing swelling, stiffness, and pain associated with arthritis. Various studies have indicated this natural pain relief herb mediates an inhibitory action on the formulation of some inflammatory chemicals in the body. Ginger also acts as a natural substitute for over-the-counter pain medications. Include ginger in your tea, or eat it with meals or as a supplement to maintain the health of joints and ensure pain reduction over some time.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is one of the herbs for joint pain, widely recognized for its soothing effects on the skin. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and inflammation in joints. Apply aloe vera gel on sore areas or drink it as a juice to reduce the pain and improve joint mobility.
Boswellia
Boswellia, or Indian frankincense, is one of the best herbs for joint pain in Ayurveda and possesses potent anti-inflammatory action. The extract of Boswellia lowers the inflammation of the joints and inhibits the loss of cartilage. This property of boswellia primarily helps individuals suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Take it as a supplement regularly to lessen pain, heighten the functioning of the joints, and raise mobility in general.
Eucalyptus
The tannins in the leaves of the Eucalyptus plant are anti-inflammatory that can be used for soothing aching joints and relieving them from pain. The oil, when applied topically to the skin, helps in the treatment of stiffness and joint pain in creams and ointments. Apply eucalyptus oil on affected areas, or just inhale its soothing aroma as it brings immediate relief from pain and comforts you after a long exhausting day.
Thunder God Vine
Traditional Chinese medicine, Thunder God Vine is one of the herbs for joint pain with powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressing action. You should extract it from the root as it is effective in treating autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. Being so potent, use it under the supervision of a healthcare professional to avoid any adverse effects like swelling in the joints.
Willow Bark
For centuries, Willow Bark has been used as a pain reliever. The herb contains Salicin - a predecessor to aspirin-which is very potent at reducing joint pain and swelling. Tests prove the efficiency of using willow bark for treating osteoarthritis of the knees, back, and hip. Willow bark, taken in supplement or tea form, assists in the chronic pain experienced in joints and thereby enhances mobility at large.
Cat’s Claw
As one of the herbs for joint pain, Cat’s Claw contains anti-inflammatory compounds that are derived from a tropical vine that alleviates joint pain in individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. This is because it inhibits a chemical called tumour necrosis factor, which is used by the body in its inflammatory processes. The herb is also used to treat a person’s joints with this illness by hindering the gradual destruction of joints.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known for its warm taste and smell, as well as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This natural pain relief herb lessens the rigidity and pain of the joints, especially for those who have already been suffering from arthritis. This blood sugar regulation aspect of cinnamon can hence be favourable for patients experiencing diabetes-related joint pain. Consume cinnamon through your diet or as a supplement to enhance general joint functionality.
Green Tea
Green Tea is rich in polyphenols, which are a class of antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory actions, hence protecting the joints from damage. This makes it very useful in the arrest of the progression of arthritis and the reduction of pain and swelling in the joints. Regular consumption of green tea may support joint health for a long period and reduce dependency on pain-relieving medications.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen in Ayurveda, which helps the body to resist stress and reduce any kind of inflammation. Since it is known that ashwagandha lowers cortisol levels, this natural herb for joint pain automatically lowers inflammation. It improves muscular strength and the stamina of the overall physique, hence proving to be a very great herb for those suffering from chronic pain in joints. Intake of Ashwagandha as part of daily regime supports nature in strengthening joints and relieving joint pains.
Borage Oil
Borage oil is a product of the seeds of the Borage, plant. It is mainly a source of gamma-linolenic acid, an omega-6 fat with anti-inflammatory properties. These fatty acids help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Studies have said that borage oil is especially effective for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. It aids in joint functioning and may decrease inflammation with time, promoting mobility.
Other Complementary Methods
Exercise
One of the most efficient ways to maintain healthy joints can be through exercise. Aerobics includes low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, and yoga. Such activity will help increase the flexibility in your body, strengthen muscles around the joints, and decrease joint stiffness. Regular exercise will also help you manage your weight, which will take pressure off your joints.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese therapy where very fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body. It has relieved many people with joint pain, especially those suffering from osteoarthritis, through the activation of the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy helps to reduce stiffness in the joints and improves blood circulation, hence helping to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. Regular massages can give relief from chronic joint pain, improve mobility, and generally help one to feel better.
Conclusion
Joint pain management need not necessarily veer towards prescription medicines and invasive treatments. Adding these 12 potent herbs into your daily routine will go a long way in providing natural relief from inflammation, and stiffness, boosting up joint health. These include turmeric, ginger, and boswellia, which give symptomatic long-term relief, and their benefits can be enhanced with supportive therapies like exercises and massage therapy.
FAQs
What’s a good herb for joints?
Turmeric is categorized in the A+ category of herbs that have so far been very helpful due to their anti-inflammatory components, which classify them as a superb model for the mitigation of joint pain. Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, helps lessen inflammation and relieves pain in many cases, especially among people with arthritis.
What tea is best for joints?
Green tea is rated among the best teas for the health of joints. It contains a great amount of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect joints against any form of destruction.
What is the golden herb for pain relief?
Turmeric, known as the golden herb for pain relief, gives it its great colour and powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The most apt in the management of joint pains and flexibility improvement.
If you are serious about taking responsibility for the health of your joints, then try home remedies for knee and joint pain. Or you can also check out Dr Vaidya’s range of ayurvedic medicines for pain relief like Pain Relief Oil, Capsules or Balm. Formulated using Wintergreen Oil, Nirgundi Oil and Shalaki, these are the perfect herbal remedy that enhances the overall quality of life for arthritis patients and anyone suffering from joint pain.
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)
Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.