Arthritis is a group of diseases that cause swelling, pain, and joint stiffness. Though there is no known cure for arthritis, one can get relief by adopting natural ways like exercising, hot and cold therapy, taking dietary supplements, and consuming a healthy diet.

Diet is known to play an important role in arthritis management by relieving pain and easing inflammation. Some of the foods that one can consume to relieve arthritis symptoms are spices (turmeric, garlic, ginger), and green leafy vegetables (spinach). The use of Indian frankincense and eucalyptus oil can also be beneficial.

The popular Indian spice turmeric contains the active anti-inflammatory component curcumin which can help reduce inflammations and pain associated with arthritis. Supplements containing curcumin can also be taken to relieve symptoms of arthritis.

Garlic is not just tasty but highly beneficial in treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis as it contains an anti-inflammatory compound known as diallyl disulfide. It may also prevent arthritis-associated cartilage damage.

Research indicates improvement in knee pain associated with osteoarthritis by arresting the production of substances that can trigger inflammation, when participants were given ginger extract for about 6 weeks. Ginger can be consumed fresh, dried, or in powdered form.

The green leafy vegetable, Spinach, is loaded with antioxidants that can protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are harmful by-products of metabolic processes in the body. Spinach is also rich in Calcium which promotes bone health.

Most of us are familiar with the aroma of this plant used as incense in our homes. A clinical trial conducted in India revealed that the extract of Boswellia improved knee-joint functions and provided pain relief in patients suffering from osteoarthritis. It is usually taken orally as a tablet, capsule, or bark decoction.

Applying eucalyptus oil on the joints can soothe painful joints and reduce arthritic pain. Additionally, this oil is an essential ingredient in most medicinal pain-relieving creams and ointments.

Research supports the efficacy of dietary supplements in the management of arthritis-related conditions, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Dietary supplements are products created synthetically to provide nutrients in increased quantities. However, it cannot substitute a nutrient-rich diet and must be used only as a nutrient-enhancer. Supplements must be taken only after the doctor’s advice.

Taking an adequate amount of vitamin D and Calcium can help in preventing osteomalacia, osteoporosis, and relieving bone-related pains.

Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish are known to have a modulatory effect on the disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis. It can help in reducing pain, tenderness, and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.