Herbs Used for Arthritis

Herbs used for arthritis that can alleviate pain and symptoms associated with arthritis, yet not many of those suffering from arthritis are aware of them and how they work. While doctors can prescribe drugs for the symptoms, there is no cure for arthritis or the more debilitating rheumatoid arthritis. Unfortunately, often the drugs have side effects that are just as devastating as the arthritis.

Drug side effects are just one of the reasons that more and more people are turning to arthritis herbs for relief. These herbs used for arthritis include:

• Alfalfa - contains many minerals that alleviate pain and tension in the joints. Trained herbalists recommend using alfalfa tea rather than using it in its powdered form.


• Angelica - has many anti-inflammatory properties that act as muscle relaxants, relieving the pain and tension associated with arthritis. Portions of the roots can be boiled in water and served as a fast-acting, pain-relieving tea


• Boswellia - has anti-inflammatory properties and is comparable with many synthetic drugs that fight arthritis, without the side effects


• Cayenne pepper - applied to the affected area in the form of a paste. It is also possible to put a spoon of pepper into a glass of water to drink. It does not burn the tongue or the inside of the mouth as badly as you might think it would.


• Celery - contains anti-inflammatory ingredients to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Celery seeds that placed in a cup of boiling water and brewed as a tea are commonly used.


• Devil's claw - is available at pharmacies in capsule form. Approximately one gram per day will reduce pain and inflammation.


• Feverfew - the effects are stronger than those of freely available anti-inflammatory drugs without the usual side effects.


• Ginger - used in a tea or a compress reduces inflammation and is a common remedy for arthritis.


• Hop - tea has properties similar to those of steroids that doctors often prescribe for pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Drinking the tea before sleeping will relieve pain and allow for an undisturbed night of rest.


• Oregano - antioxidant properties that rejuvenate the joints and relieve tension and pain.

Other useful herbs include White willow, Burdock and Chaparral, as well as Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Chamomile essential oils.

Many people have made the decision to move from synthetic painkillers to herbs used for arthritis. The benefits of using herbs as opposed to manufactured medications far outweigh the disadvantages. Side effects are minimal if they are experienced at all and there is very little effect from using most herbs for a long time

*For a full selection of essential oils, we recommend Mountain Rose Herbs.

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