4 Natural Solutions For Arthritis

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“The weather is changing, I can feel it in my bones…”

Cherries or Cherry Juice

Most people may have heard of this particular remedy or solution before, however tart cherries and tart cherry juice have been clinically shown to reduce and eliminate inflammation. Anthocyanins, the antioxidant compound found in tart cherries, is what gives them their strong natural red pigment. This antioxidant has been correlated to a significant decrease in inflammation and been shown to be as effective at doing so as many OTC medications.

The standard red maraschino cherries that most of us might prefer, often come soaked in things such as corn syrup, citric acid, artificial flavors, sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, red#40, and sulphur dioxide. These ingredients and their negative impact on health is a subject for another time…

 

Organic Unpasteurized Apple Cider Vinegar

Why Organic and Unpasteurized?

This means that the, “Mother” is intact, which is a strand-like enzyme of connected protein molecules. With the “mother” you can be sure that the apple cider vinegar offers the full spectrum of health and healing benefits, including relief from Arthritis and Gout.

There are two compounds that are found in ACV, that are directly responsible for relief from gout and arthritis and the prevention of it. These two acidic compounds cause the breakdown and ultimately dissolve the buildup of uric acid, which is the cause of gout and arthritis pain.

These compounds are called acetic acid and malic acid. Like their names suggest, they are acidic before consumption. Then, through the process of digestion, these two compounds become alkaline, creating a natural alkaline body chemistry. When consumed on a regular basis apple cider vinegar, creates a perfectly balanced pH for the body.

I simply use one to two teaspoons in an 8 ounce glass of water once daily.

Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM

Glucosamine – is what composes the majority of joint cartilage.

Chondroitin – is a component of human connective tissue, found in cartilage and bone.

We all heard of this little trick in the many years I spent working at a horse boarding facility. It’s benefits weren’t just seen in horses but many of the boarders proclaimed the effectiveness of taking this over the counter supplement.

There is an all in one version of these three compounds, Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM, which in my opinion is the one to get, or they can be purchased separately. The reason I would suggest the all in one, while being aware of the specific type of the compounds being used, is as follows.

According to at least one doctor, the type of Glucosamine used matters.

“There’s a fair amount of data that glucosamine sulfate is beneficial, but glucosamine hydrochloride is not,” Dr. Altman says. “Almost all of the products that are sold here in the United States are glucosamine hydrochloride. There are no trials demonstrating that glucosamine hydrochloride benefits people with osteoarthritis.” According to the article, 13 Natural Remedies for Arthritis.

Some research has shown that Chondroitin Sulfate is effective at slowing the progression of arthritis. However research has not determined if it actually helps relieve symptoms such as the pain associated with arthritis. Therefor, using  it in combination with Glucosamine and MSM, along with some Apple Cider Vinegar would be very beneficial.

Be Aware of The Source!

Many supplements for Glucosamine, are derived from the shells of shellfish such as shrimp, lobster and crab.

In supplements, chondroitin sulfate usually comes from bovine trachea or pork by-products.

Bromelain From Pineapples

There is evidence to suggest that bromelain found in Pineapples reduces the pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis and that it may also increase mobility. Enzymes like bromelain have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects comparable to NSAIDs.

A study in Germany, done in 2005, showed promising results that bromelain also activated immune cells that fight off infections.

Instead of eating a pineapple every day, unless you really like pineapple like I do, there are supplements available in capsule and tablet form. The usual recommended dosage of bromelian is 500 mg to 2,000 mg three times a day.

Be Aware!

— DO NOT use this method if you are sensitive or allergic to Pineapples.

— Also make sure when consuming pineapples that they are fully yellow of the outside prior to cutting into them. If the outside of the pineapple is still green, leaving it at room temperature for a day of two will help it ripen faster. The flesh of the pineapple should be a dark or almost orange – yellow pigment to ensure maximum sweetness and ripeness. Following this rule will help ensure that you do not develop canker or mouth sores from eating pineapple that is not ripe.

 

Additional Information

Why Natural Remedies and Not OTC Medications?

The main side effect of the usual recommended treatment route can involve gastrointestinal side effects that include nausea and vomiting in the least. More serious side effects of acetaminophen, the main ingredient in most OTC pain relievers, can include severe liver damage.

Really, most people know this but they choose this route of pain relief because they either don’t know or won’t try the natural and effective routes, of which there are many. Once anyone does they will likely never want to go back to the masking agents, that are what we have come to call “medicine” in our society.

Most people I have known, have at some point, abused this particular drug, perhaps under the false assumption that since it is OTC that somehow makes it “safer.”

My philosophy is, get to the source of the problem and solve it instead of treating it, prevent it or cure it.

We are coming out of an era in which man has tried to conquer nature. We are transitioning into a New Consciousness, in which we are beginning to understand, that we must work in harmony with it, if we wish to have tranquility.

 

 

Sources 

http://www.gourmetsleuth.com/ingredients/detail/maraschino-cherries#ixzz3GpHHrUcv

http://www.livestrong.com/article/532249-can-apple-cider-vinegar-treat-gout/

http://www.arthritistoday.org/arthritis-treatment/natural-and-alternative-treatments/supplements-and-herbs/supplement-guide/bromelain.php

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20443624_6,00.html

http://www.arthritistoday.org/arthritis-treatment/natural-and-alternative-treatments/supplements-and-herbs/supplement-guide/bromelain.php

 

Jill Spirit Horse Quin
I love Herbalism with a passion! I believe in becoming conscious of all personal habits and their relation to overall health, not just for physical and mental well-being but also for Spiritual Well-Being. I am constantly learning, and love to share and exchange knowledge with others. I love to aid others, in recovering from and preventing disease. I give one on one guidance, about ways to implement Sustainable Balanced and Positive Change into Your Individual Health and Spiritual lifestyle. I am not religious, I am Spiritually driven. I am on a mission to help others, on their journey, as we are all part of one source. I Bring Balance to situations which call for it. I do not rest on my laurels, but neither do I push my beliefs on others. I believe if people are properly informed they will naturally gravitate towards the right choice, as we are currently in a new state of consciousness which is continuously evolving. To Contact me about our team's Services, Email me at [email protected] to find out more about projects involving Mind, Body and Spirit! In the Subject Line Put "Natural Spirit"
Enjoy!