Seeking Ayurvedic Advice for Arthritis Relief - #12

For severe arthrosis in your knees and hips, Ayurveda offers remedies that can help alleviate pain and improve joint mobility. One of the most effective herbs for joint issues is Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), which has strong anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve pain and swelling in the joints. You can take Shallaki capsules (300-500 mg) twice daily. Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) is another excellent herb known to reduce inflammation and support joint health—Yograj Guggulu or Mahayograj Guggulu can be taken 1 tablet twice daily after meals. For external application, massaging the affected areas with Mahanarayan oil or Dhanvantaram oil can help reduce stiffness and provide relief from pain; after the massage, apply a warm compress to the joints. Ayurvedic therapies like Pizhichil (a therapeutic oil bath) and Kati Basti (localized oil treatment) can deeply nourish the joints and reduce inflammation when done under the supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner. Additionally, taking Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 500 mg twice daily can strengthen the bones and muscles and help manage chronic pain. It’s important to follow a diet that pacifies Vata dosha, including warm, nourishing foods and avoiding cold, dry, and processed items, which can aggravate joint pain. Light, joint-friendly exercises like yoga or swimming can help maintain mobility without straining your joints.

Dealing with arthrosis can be really tough, especially when it gets in the way of living life. But Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, offers some effective strategies to tackle the root of the issue. First, let’s dive into understanding the imbalance leading to your discomfort. Ayurveda often sees artrhosis as an imbalance in the Vata dosha, causing dryness and degeneration in joints.

A key step is including a Vata-pacifying diet, rich in warm, cooked foods. Cooked vegetables, whole grains, ghee, and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric and ginger can be your allies. These will not only aid digestion but also nourish the tissues. A little ghee (clarified butter) added to your meals can work wonders on joint lubrication.

Hydration is essential too. Warm water, herbal teas, or soups should be preferred over cold drinks. Starting your day with a glass of warm water and lemon can stimulate digestion. Avoid cold, raw or dry foods, as these can aggravate Vata, potentially worsening your symptoms.

For pain relief, consider consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner about herbal formulations like Ashwagandha, Shatavari or Guggulu. These herbs are known for their anti-inflamatory properties and help in rebuilding the tissues. But always have them prescribed – herbal supplements can be quite potent.

Regular oil massage (abhyanga) with sesame or warm castor oil can also significantly reduce pain and improve mobility. Massaging in slow, circular motions around the joints early in the morning or before bath enhances circulation.

Gentle yoga or stretching exercises tailored to your condition could also help keep the joints flexible. But avoid overexerting – it’s not about pushing through pain but gently coaxing movement.

Finally, if symptoms remain or get severe, don’t ignore them. Ayurveda is great for holistic care, but sometimes more immediate medical intervention might be necessary. Listenin’ to your body is key. Hope these tips bring some relief and a path to feeling better soon.