Easing the pain of arthritis and joint discomfort
Arthritis comes from the Greek word "arthron" meaning joint. Arthritis literally means 'joint inflammation'. According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 different diseases that produce joint pain and inflammation -everything from the flu to certain cancers. The two most common forms of 'arthritis' are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (osteo - bones or bones) is a degenerative disorder in which the cartilage between the joints wears away. The body attempts to repair this damage by producing bony outgrowths at the margins of affected joints, but these, in fact , cause pain and stiffness. It is usually age-related and affects the hips, knees, spine and shoulders in particular. Obesity is an aggravating factor.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, progressive disorder. The synovial* membrane lining the joint becomes inflamed, spreading over and eroding the cartilage, causing the characteristic pain and stiffness. Anaemia, joint infections and pericarditis* are all complications of rheumatoid arthritis.

Nature provides us with many plants that will aid in the relieving of joint pain. The most radical and perhaps the most daunting is one of the uses of Stinging Nettles. It is called urtication - from nettles botanical name, Utrica dioica- and dates back to the biblical times. Quiet simply the plant is grasped in a gloved hand and the stiff, swollen joint is swatted, thrashed with the sting. Urtication often provides considerable relief. The tiny stingers of the nettle plant actually provide microinjections of several chemicals, one of which is histamine.

Ginger is another fantastic herb. Used for the treatment of many aliments, it is very beneficial in relieving arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a well know arthritis treatment. Ginger contains zingibain, a special proteolytic* enzyme. Research shows that proteolytic enzymes have anti-inflammatory properties. Taken as a tincture, as a tea or fresh, it does not have any reported side effects to high dosages. A dish prepared with ginger will actually give you a medicinal dose of the herb.

Calcium is always needed by the body and especially to aid in the prevention of osteoporosis. Food and herbs high in calcium are : Alfalfa, Liquorice, Red clover shoots, Camomile, Chives, Coltsfoot, Dandelion, Horestail, Meadowsweet, Nettle, Plantain, Watercress, Cabbage, Thyme and basil.

Additional herbs that will assist in treating arthritis are: Turmeric, Willow a natural pain killer, Liquorice which has anti-inflammatory qualities, rosemary, oregano, basil, camphor, celery seed, meadowsweet.