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Arthritic Holistic Medicine

Today, more and more people are turning to holistic medicine to treat their arthritis symptoms. There are many different types of holistic treatments available to arthritis sufferers. This article provides a brief overview of the most popular holistic arthritis treatments.

Acupressure is beneficial to people with arthritis because it helps relieve stiff, achy joints. Rheumatoid arthritis patients particularly benefit because acupressure improves blood circulation. During a session, a practitioner will apply pressure to different areas on the body, and a typical sessions lasts between a half hour to an hour.

Acupuncture is when fine needles are inserted into different anti-inflammatory points on the body, which helps circulation. Pain is relieved when blockages open from improved circulation. Acupuncture also helps the body make endorphins, which are natural pain killers.

Arthritis diets focus on providing the proper balance of fruits, vegetables, grains, and essential fatty acids. They can also be effective in helping one achieve normal body weight. This type of holistic medicine comes in the form of fresh, whole organic foods that are rich in vitamin, mineral, and fiber content.

Many colorful fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals, which are helpful in fighting inflammation. Fruits high in vitamin C, such as blackberries, strawberries, kiwi, raspberries, cantaloupe, apples, and mango are all ideal.

Select vegetables with high contents of vitamins A and C. These include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, collard greens, kale, spinach, squash, and sweet potatoes.

Along with fruits and vegetables, be sure to consume foods and supplements high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish and plant oils are the main sources of Omega-3s, and are known to reduce inflammation and arthritis pain. Primary sources for fish oil are salmon, mackerel, halibut, herring, and sardines, and sources for plant oil are flaxseeds, canola, pumpkin, walnut, and soybeans.

Another alternate form of holistic medicine for arthritis is aromatherapy Therapeutic oils are the highest quality essential oils available, and can relieve many arthritis symptoms through contact with the body. These oils are very concentrated, and therefore only require a few drops to produce benefits. Before applying therapeutic oils to the body, make sure to mix them with carrier oils, such as sunflower or olive oil.

Lemon, Black Pepper, Ginger, Angelica Root, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Rosemary, Thyme, and Lavender are all common essential oils used in arthritic holistic medicine. Since some oils should not be used while pregnant or nursing, or while taking certain prescription medicines, be sure to work with a qualified Aromatherapist.

Homeopathy is a holistic healing system first developed in the 18th century. Based on the concept that “like cures like”, homeopathic remedies use minute amounts of natural substances to stimulate the body’s own defenses against specific symptoms.

Homeopathy is complex and requires extensive knowledge in the subject. It’s best to work with a professional homeopath in order to obtain maximum benefit and avoid potential side effects.

Tags: Health & Fitness //