Arthritis

There are two major types or arthritis; osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, each has different symptoms. Osteoarthritis is related to wear and tear of aging and the thinning or cartilage around joints, other factors can include injuries. Rheumatoid arthritis is different and is sometimes defined as an immune disorder, it is caused when the body defence system attacks its own cells. The result is swollen, painful, often deformed joints and a general feeling of being unwell. For rheumatoid arthritis it is not recommended to self treat, please consult with your doctor or herbalist that can monitor your condition. A daily dose of cod liver oil is suggested up to 1 teaspoon which is beneficial for joints and reduce stiffness. Keeping an active lifestyle and a diet high in essential fats, rich in vitamin and minerals is greatly needed. On top of a healthy lifestyle there are tea and decoctions that will be beneficial. Detoxifying the system is important as it eliminates irritant waste material and reduces muscular aches and pains. Stiff joint are also helped with stimulating the circulatory system. Teas and decocotions that are for this purpose includes; dandelion, nettle, meadowseet, celery seed and ginger. Dandelion leaf has diuretic properties that increases the functionality of the kidney helping you eliminate waste. The root is a gentle liver tonic and mild laxative. Nettle is rich in vitamins and iron but acts like a blood cleanser. This helps repair and renew tissues. It can be taken alone 'or mixed with dandelion. Meadowsweet is useful for easing discomfort of muscle pain. It should only be taken as a tea once daily for no longer that 2 weeks at a time. Celery seed has an alkalizing effect to the system and helps remove acidic toxins.For maximum effect use celery seed with parsley as it helps enhance the benefits. Celery seed should not be used during pregnancy or with kidney diseases. Ginger has a warming effect that stimulates the circulatory system. It is recommended for both types of arthritis but should not be taken in high doses.

Pain and stiffness can benefit from compresses. use 5 drops of the essential oil versions of the herbs mentioned above in 300ml (1/2 pint) of hot water, dip cloth, wring it out and apply to affected area.

A warm bath helps relax the muscles of the body adding 5 drops of the recommended oils with 3-5 of lavender oil will help your aching joints and muscle. 

Rheumatism Liniment

this is a liquid preparation that combines herbal oil with tincture. This should be applied at body temperature and massaged into the effected ares. Use 6 cloves garlic, 1 1/4 cups olive oil, 2 tablespoons juniper tincture. Crush garlic without peeling them and put in a bowl pour olive oil over the garlic and cover with foil and stand it over a pan of simmering water. Heat gentle for an hour. Strain out the oil and leave until lukewarm then stir in the juniper tincture and pour into a stoppered bottle. This will keep for several months.