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Holistic Medicine for Arthritis

By: James Bartell Holistic Medicine for Arthritis

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.

People with arthritis should eat a balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, grains, and fatty acids. A healthy diet can also help one achieve a normal body weight. This holistic medicine type comes in the form of organic foods that are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Select colorful fruits and vegetables that contain phytochemicals -- a potent element in fighting inflammation. Choose fruits high in vitamin C content such as blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi fruit, mango, cantaloupe melon and apples.

Consume vegetables that are rich in vitamins C and A, such as sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, kale, collard greens, carrots, cabbage, brussel sprouts, and broccoli.

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 form of arthrtic holistic medicine is aromatherapy. Many therapeutic oils can help relieve arthritis symptoms via body application, and are the highest quality essential oils available. Since they are highly concentrated, only a few drops are needed to obtain healing benefits. Mix therapeutic oils with carrier oils, such as olive or sunflower oil, before applying them to the body.

Common essential oils used in holistic medicine for arthritis include: Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary, Juniper, Eucalyptus, Chamomile, Angelica Root, Ginger, Black Pepper and Lemon. It's a good idea to work with a qualified Aromatherapist when working with essential oils. Some oils should not be used when taking prescription medications, or if you are pregnant or nursing.

Homeopathy was first developed in the 18th century as a holistic healing system. Since like is said to cure like, natural substances are used to help the body's own defenses fight specific symptoms.

Homeopathy requires extensive knowledge since it is so complex. Be sure to work with a proffesional homeopath in order to avoid possible side effects and obtain the maximum amount of benefits.