Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition characterized by the progressive breakdown of cartilage covering the bones in the joints. It most often results from mechanical wear (physical work, sports, repetitive movements, micro-traumas, vibrations), excess weight, or genetic predisposition. Pain generally increases with activity, joints become stiffer, and the most commonly affected areas are the knees, hips, lumbar and cervical vertebrae, and fingers.

Natural solutions to relieve pain
The goal is twofold: support cartilage repair and reduce pain and inflammation.

Plants with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects
The most effective include: devil’s claw, meadowsweet, turmeric, blackcurrant, birch, poplar, white willow, ash, Canada goldenrod, goldenrod, nettle, scrofula.

• Take devil’s claw and blackcurrant regularly in capsules of dry extracts (200 mg), 2–3 times per day.
• For pain relief, add meadowsweet capsules.
• As a long-term treatment, continuous intake of avocado and soybean unsaponifiables can be beneficial.

Topical use
Apply to the painful joint:

• Arnica gel
• Comfrey cream
• Or a blend of anti-inflammatory essential oils (wintergreen, Scots pine, cypress, thyme, rosemary) diluted in a vegetable oil and massaged into the joint.
• Clay poultices can also be applied.

Other complementary approaches

• Thermal spa treatments
• Massage and physiotherapy
• Manual therapy techniques
• Swimming and gentle exercise
• Acupuncture
• Joint support if needed
• Weight loss in case of overweight
• Anti-inflammatory and alkalizing diet
• Adequate hydration
• Supplements: type II collagen, MSM, glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, etc.

Anti-inflammatory herbal tea
Drink 3 times a day:

• Equal parts ash leaves, nettle leaves, and juniper berries.
• Use 1 tablespoon per cup, steep for 15 minutes, and drink hot.