In the context of Ayurveda, Rheumatoid arthritis is termed as ‘Amavata’. Every person is born with a unique “Prakriti” or body-mind type. This is based on a unique combination of three elements called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Doshas. People with predominant Vata or Kapha Dosha are more likely to suffer from Amavata. RA is an autoimmune and Inflammatory disease which mainly attacks the lining of joints in hands, wrists and knees initially, then progressing to the larger joints and eventually to skin, eyes, heart, kidneys and lungs. By autoimmune disorder it means instead of fighting the foreign substance, it starts attacking the healthy cells in the body causing inflammation (painful swelling) in the affected parts. This tissue damage can cause chronic pain, deformity and bone erosion. Some Common symptoms of RA include morning stiffness, fever, fatigue and swollen joints.
But there is Ayurvedic treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis, which will provide natural relief from its symptoms.
Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis
In adults there are two main types of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Seropositive and Seronegative.
Seropositive RA
This is a more common type as 60%-80% of people with RA are Seropositive. It means the antibodies residing in blood could attack the blood and inflame the joints. These antibodies are called anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides (CCPs).
Seronegative RA
Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis is a type of RA where individuals do not
have anti-CCPs in their blood. Despite this, they still feel similar symptoms to those who are Seropositive such as joint pain, stiffness and inflammation.
Ayurvedic Herbs to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
In Ayurveda, Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment aims at stabilizing Vata and kapha components of the body. Ayurvedic treatment can include natural herbs, supplements, dietary changes, yoga and deep breathing.
Ayurvedic Herbs offer potential benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis including natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help aid chronic joint pain and inflammation.
12 Ayurvedic Herbs for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Ayurvedic herbs have often been perceived as a holistic approach since ancient times, as they are free from synthetics, utilized in chemical products. They come up with potential benefits in the most natural way and with fewer side effects.
o. Ginger
Ginger has Anti-Inflammatory properties which helps treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is beneficial to add it in the diet as it helps alleviate joint pain.
Consumption: Stir fried veggie dish with chopped Ginger, eating fresh pickled ginger, drinking ginger tea or adding ginger to soups and smoothies.
o. Turmeric:
Turmeric is mainly known as the golden herb for Arthritis. It contains a compound called curcumin which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Consumption: Add it to the salads and curries or boil 2 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper at low flame for 10-15 minutes.
If there’s not enough time to consume it in the traditional way then add curcumin supplements or capsules in the diet with the consultation of an expert doctor.
o. Nirgundi
Nirgundi is a traditional herb with anti-inflammatory properties. It is beneficial in managing Rheumatoid Arthritis as it reduces inflammation and soothes pain.
Consumption: Boil a handful of fresh leaves of Nirgundi in water, strain and the drink is ready for consumption Or Nirgundi Oil can also be used for external application.
o. Thyme
It is a fragrant herb that has high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that could be therapeutic for RA patients.
Consumption: A sprig of thyme can be added in veggie dishes, soups and stews.
o. Garlic
Garlic retains anti-arthritic properties, that is, it prevents cartilage destruction and helps reduce inflammation.
Consumption: Sliced or chopped garlic can be added to stir fried veggies, or sandwich spreads.
o. Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains chemical compounds known as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid which helps in ease of joint pain. The antioxidant properties in cinnamon helps curb cell damage.
Consumption: Dried cinnamon can be added to soups, smoothies or oatmeals.
o. Black pepper
Black pepper possesses anti-inflammatory effects which inhibits swelling and provides relief from pain.
Consumption: Use it to season any dish, salad or soups.
o. Punarnava
Punarnava helps to correct digestive fire and reduce Ama, improving bone and joint strength in RA.
Consumption: punarnava powder in warm milk, after a healthy meal.
o. Ashwaandha
It is embedded with anti-inflammatory, pain relieving and anti stress properties. Ashwagandha extracts can be beneficial for arthritis pain, stiffness and swelling.
Consumption: Ashwagandha powder with lukewarm water,
or capsules and tablets can be added in the daily diet under the guidance of an expert doctor.
o. Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola have powerful anti-inflammatory characteristics which are useful in significantly reducing joint pain in RA.
Consumption: Fresh Gotu kola leaves can be added in the form of soup, dal or salad.
o. Hadjod
Hadjod has valuable minerals and antioxidants that help repair bone and joint disorders in RA.
Consumption: 2.5g of Hadjod powder with milk or water after meals, twice a day or a paste of Hadjod leaves can be applied on inflamed joints to soothe pain and swelling.
o. Simhanada Guggul
Simhanada Guggul is mainly used for the treatment and management of joint pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation associated due to Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Consumption: One to two tablets of Simhanada Guggul may be taken in a day under an expert guidance.
Therefore, Ayurveda offers a Natural approach in managing the condition. Changing to a healthy lifestyle that is by practicing daily meditation, yoga and deep breathing followed by a healthy diet, one can see visible changes. Ayurvedic treatments are more holistic and leave no side effects if followed under the supervision of an expert.
