- Allergic reactions have been known to occur when using herbal remedies. The use of herbs can adversely affect other medications. Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, whether herbal or pharmaceutical, when inquiring about arthritis treatments. Herbal remedies should never be used without consulting a physician first.
- The capsaicin in cayenne pepper is a natural form of aspirin. Use the pepper oil in a cream base for joint pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, capsaicin as an herbal treatment for arthritis will give temporary relief to the inflamed area.
- Fresh or dried stinging nettles help alleviate internal pain of arthritis by attacking the nerves in the derma surface when it comes in contact with the skin. The external pain sensors are triggered, causing the internal pain receptors to slow down according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This treatment is slightly painful but effective. Once the internal pain is gone, the area can be washed to relieve the sting of the nettles.
- Chamomile, a natural anti-inflammatory, is an effective arthritis herbal treatment. Generally used as a tea, chamomile can also be used as a wash. Soak the afflicted joints in hot water that has been infused with chamomile. It is safe to use this herb in the bath for an all over body soak. The Modern Herbal states chamomile is good for painful inflammation and external swelling.
- The weeping willow tree bark contains natures own aspirin, salicin. This herb acts as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. Willow bark helps to reduce the swelling when joints become irritated and inflamed. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center patients given a dose of 240 mg of willow bark showed significant pain reduction. The dosage for a tea is simmer 1 or 2 tsps. of dried bark in 8 oz. of water for 15 minutes. Allow this to steep for 1/2 hour. It is recommended to drink three or four cups of this tea on a daily basis.
