3 Natural Supplements That Can Ease The Discomfort Of Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common--and crippling--illnesses affecting people as they age. While professional medial evaluation is undeniably the best way to learn how to manage the pain of arthritis, it is important to consider that there are also a wealth of natural solutions. If you would like to learn more about natural supplements that can ease the discomfort of arthritis and osteoporosis, read on. This article will outline three key things to be aware of.

Capsaicin

Culinary types may recognize capsaicin as the heat inducing component jalapenos and other types of chili pepper. Fewer people realize that capsaicin can effectively put the quell arthritis pain when used topically. Of course, you don't just want to start rubbing raw chili peppers on your body. Instead, look for a capsaicin cream or gel at your local health foods store.

When applied to parts of the body that are experiencing arthritis pain, capsaicin creams can greatly reduce pain. They do so by inhibiting the action of a neurotransmitter known as substance P, which is responsible for delivering pain sensations to your brain. Just be aware that you may experience some minor sensations of stinging or burning while your body acclimates itself to the use of capsaicin creams.

Turmeric

Turmeric is the name of a spice widely used in Indian cuisine. A relative of ginger, turmeric grows as a root underground, before being dried and ground for culinary use. It has long been known that turmeric possesses certain anti-inflammatory properties. Yet now studies are also suggesting that turmeric can also be effectively utilized as a means of alleviating the discomfort of arthritis.

How you decide to integrate turmeric into your anti-arthritis regimen is up to you. Some people choose to integrate it into their cooking, while others simply begin taking a turmeric supplement in pill form. The key criteria here is dosage: you want to be enjoying turmeric doses of at least one gram each day.

Cat's Claw

Cat's claw is the common name of an herbal medicine derived from the root and stem of a species of vines found in Central and South America. It is generally available in capsule form at many pharmacies, grocery stores, and holistic health clinics. Like turmeric, cat's claw has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. In other words, it is capable of naturally reducing the inflammation, swelling, and stiffness that can make arthritis such a debilitating disease.