Arthritis is one of the most widespread chronic conditions affecting people across the globe. In India alone, over 180 million people suffer from some form of arthritis, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Surprisingly, it’s not just the elderly who are at risk—arthritis can affect people as young as 18. In fact, 1 in 3 adults between the ages of 18 and 64 may experience symptoms of arthritis.
The disease severely impacts mobility and quality of life, gradually worsening over time if left untreated. Let’s dive deeper into what arthritis is, its causes, symptoms, and some effective home remedies you can try to manage it naturally.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that primarily affects the joints—including the knees, hips, spine, and feet. It causes inflammation, stiffness, swelling and pain in the affected areas, which can make everyday movements difficult and uncomfortable. Over time, the damage to joints can become permanent without proper care.
Types of Arthritis
There are more than 100 types of arthritis, but the most common include:
- Osteoarthritis – Caused by wear and tear of joints
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – An autoimmune condition
- Psoriatic Arthritis – Linked to psoriasis
- Gout – Caused by uric acid buildup
- Lupus – An autoimmune disease affecting joints and other organs
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
Symptoms may vary depending on the type, but general signs include:
- Persistent pain in joints (knees, hips, spine, feet)
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling and redness around joints
- Limited mobility or difficulty in movement
- Fatigue and low-grade fever in severe cases
What Causes Arthritis?
Several factors can contribute to the development of arthritis, such as:
- Obesity and being overweight
- Muscle weakness or lack of physical activity
- Joint injuries (new or old)
- Autoimmune disorders
- Family history or genetics
- Aging – risk increases with age
- Overuse of joints, especially legs
- Infections that affect joints
Possible Complications of Arthritis
If not managed properly, arthritis can lead to serious complications, including:
- Heart issues
- Lung disease
- Severe walking difficulty
- Permanent joint damage
- Skin and eye problems
- Blood vessel inflammation
- Chronic fatigue and fever
Dos and Don’ts for Managing Arthritis
Do:
- Engage in regular movement to keep joints flexible
- Perform stretching exercises and yoga
- Switch to olive oil for cooking
- Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet
- Take care of your immune health
Don’t:
- Eat junk or salty food
- Smoke or drink alcohol
- Consume red meat
- Ignore injuries or delay treatment
Effective Home Remedy for Arthritis
You can try this herbal drink for joint pain relief:
Ingredients:
- 20–25 Neem leaves
- 2 tbspPapaya seeds
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
Steps:
- Crush the neem leaves using a mortar and pestle.
- Boil water alone for 5 minutes.
- Add crushed neem and papaya seeds to the boiling water and continue to boil until it reduces to half.
- Strain the liquid and add lemon juice.
How to Use:
Drink half the mixture in the morning and the remaining half in the evening, both on an empty stomach. Continue for 1–2 months for visible benefits.
What to Eat for Arthritis Relief
Add the following foods and herbs to your diet for natural inflammation relief:
- Ginger and black pepper (in teas or meals)
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons daily)
- Fenugreek and carom seeds (ajwain)
- Turmeric milk (Haldi Doodh)
- Herbal juices like Ashwagandha and Giloy
Top 5 Tips to Manage Arthritis Naturally
- Massage joints with cinnamon or therapeutic oils
- Use a cold compress in the early stages
- Try warm compresses for chronic arthritis
- Practice gentle yoga and joint-friendly exercises
- Stick to a nutritious, anti-inflammatory diet
Final Thoughts
Arthritis may be a lifelong condition, but with the right approach—including lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and natural remedies—you can significantly reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life. Always consult a medical professional before starting any new treatment or remedy, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.
