Tag: Natural remedies for osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is considered a chronic degenerative joint disorder that is characterized by loss of cartilage, which leads to joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and restricted movement. Mostly weight-bearing joints such as hands, spine, hips, and knees are affected, which hampers the quality of life. The risk of osteoarthritis is increasing day by day due to sedentary lifestyle habits, trauma, strain over joints, poor posture, lack of physical activities and improper nutrition intake.  Inflammation and repetitive stress plays an important role in progression of these diseases. So it is important to manage these diseases with time with change in daily routine and physical habits because if the cartilage gets damaged it is irreversible and joint mobility gets decreased and the movement becomes restricted.

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is chronic degenerative joint disorder which is due to the wear and tear of cartilages which further leads to change in structure and surrounding tissues of the joints. It is typically characterized by the activities which worsens joint pain and symptoms which are worsening joint pain includes crepitus, swelling, morning stiffness and tenderness. With time if these symptoms are not treated then it can hamper work quantity and quality of life. Treatment of osteoarthritis primarily focuses on managing pain, tenderness, stiffness and maintaining joint mobility. In Ayurveda Osteoarthritis can be correlated with sandhigata Vata. It is a condition which becomes progressive by the aggravation of vata dosha. When vata dosha localizes in the joints then it can lead to degeneration of Asthi Dhatu (bone tissues) which results in pain, stiffness, crepitus and restricted movement. Ayurveda mainly focuses on balancing the vata dosha, and nourishment of joints by snehan (oleation), sweden (fomentation) and use of rasayan (rejuvenative) and vata shamak (balancing of vata dosha) herbs. Panchkarma therapies such as janu basti (therapeutic knee pulling for knee joint) , kati basti (lumbar oil pulling therapy) plays an important role. Other than this lifestyle modification and dietary habits plays an important role in managing osteoarthritis.

Herbs That are helpful in Osteoarthritis

1. Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) acts as a rasayana (rejuvenator) which helps in promoting joint health and is helpful in balancing aggravated vata dosha which is helpful to those who are suffering from osteoarthritis and it helps to slow down degenerative changes. Its analgesic and antiinflammatory property helps in reducing joint pain,  swelling and discomfort in the affected joints. It helps to strengthen tissues and muscles which helps in joint stability and movement.

2. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) helps to improve lubrication in the joints which helps to cope with dryness which is due to imbalance vata dosha. Its active constituents have inflammatory action which helps to reduce inflammation which is due to pain and swelling. It is used for long term bone health and boosts joint health in osteoarthritis.

2. Hadjod (Cissus Quadrangularis)

Hadjod (Cissus Quadrangularis) is helpful in balancing vata dosha which is helpful in managing degenerative changes in musculoskeletal diseases. It has properties such as shotha hara (reduces swelling), vedana shamaka (relieves pain), Bhagna ropan (fracture healing) and asthi sandhaniya (Bone joining and strengthening). Its active constituents reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected joints. It is rich in calcium and anabolic phytochemicals which helps in improving stability and density of joints.

3. Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna)

Arjuna (Terminalis Chebula) helps in maintaining balance of vata dosha which helps to reduce degeneration and pain and Pitta dosha which helps to reduce burning sensation and inflammation. It helps in preventing joint tissues from oxidative stress and damage. It is helpful in reducing pain during sitting, walking and climbing. It improves bone mineralization and also strengthens bones, cartilages and tissues around the joints.

Home Remedies and lifestyle changes for osteoarthritis

1. Daily Abhyanga (Gentle massage) with oils having vata shamaka properties such as mahanarayan oil, sesame oil or castor oil helps in balancing vata dosha and also helps in reducing stiffness and maintaining lubrication in the joints.
2. Practice swedana (Hot fomentation) which helps to relieve stiffness and improves joint mobility.
3. Maintain healthy body weight which helps to reduce strain and pressure over weight bearing joints.
4. Use ginger, garlic, turmeric, flaxseeds, and fenugreek in the diet which helps in relieving pain and inflammation naturally.
5. Prefer intake of less oily, freshly cooked and warm foods so that vata dosha cannot get aggravated.
6. Avoid prolonged standing and excessive strain over the joints. Use supportive knee caps, cushions and other alignments whenever needed.
7. Maintain proper body posture and balance while standing, sitting , holding things or walking to prevent imbalance.
8. Proper intake of calcium and mineral rich foods so that joint and bone strength gets improved.
9. Practice pranayama and meditation which helps to reduce pain, relaxes muscle and improves overall joint movement.

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a trusted Ayurvedic healthcare company dedicated to reviving the true essence of classical Ayurveda through scientifically validated and ethically prepared herbal formulations. Established under the guidance of experienced Ayurvedic physicians, the company follows ancient Ayurvedic principles while integrating modern quality standards. Planet Ayurveda manufactures 100% vegetarian, preservative-free, and chemical-free herbal products, ensuring purity, safety, and therapeutic effectiveness. All formulations are prepared using standardized herbal extracts and traditional processing methods to retain maximum potency. The company emphasizes holistic healing by addressing the root cause of diseases rather than merely suppressing symptoms. With a strong commitment to research, sustainability, and patient education, Planet Ayurveda serves individuals across India and many international countries, promoting natural healing, preventive care, and long-term wellness through authentic Ayurvedic wisdom. For managing Osteoarthritis Planet Ayurveda has Osteoplan Capsules.

Osteoplan Capsules

Ostroplan capsule is a capsule formulation by planet ayurveda which is made using Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera),  Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), and Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis). It helps in supporting and strengthening bones by improving bone mineralization and bone density. It supports Osteoarthritis management by reducing stiffness, pain and improved joint movement. It helps in the nourishment of asthi dhatu (Bone tissues). It provides Calcium and nutrients to the bones that strengthens skeletal framework and provides strength and stability.

Dosage :- 1 or 2 Capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.

Conclusion

Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive degenerative joint disorder which is characterized by pain, stiffness and swelling. Due to sedentary lifestyle habits it can occur in young people also. It not only affects a person physically but it also affects the quality and quantity of the life of the person. It is important to protect joints so it is essential to practice daily exercise and maintain healthy body weight, ensure adequate intake of proteins and nutritions which are needed for healthy maintenance of bones and joints. Ayurveda mainly emphasizes balancing dosha, Dhatu, agni and use of herbs. It also emphasizes on dietary regulation and use of herbs which are useful in maintaining bone health and prevents it from degeneration.