Arthritis is a term to discuss multiple types of joint pains and ailments. Swelling, pain, muscle stiffness and motion limitation in joints are key symptoms of arthritis. Rheumatoid Arthritis, known as amavata in Ayurveda, arises from an imbalance of Vata and Kapha. Eranda (castor oil) is considered to have a direct impact on Vata-related health issues and therefore, it is widely used for treating and healing neuro-muscular pain disorders like arthritis.
Direct topical application of castor oil on joints/muscles is considered to be very beneficial in relieving arthritis-induced pain.
Many research studies have emphasized the use of castor oil as a base oil for topical joint-care blends that are used to treat arthritis.
This post explores the healing qualities of natural castor oil for arthritis and reducing joint inflammation. The article also lists the 5 best ways of using pharmaceutical-grade castor oil for relief in arthritis.
Healing Qualities of Castor Oil for Arthritis
1. Joint Pain Relief: The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil ease joint pain, nerve inflammation, and tight muscles. Massaging the affected area with castor oil and applying a hot water bag provides instant relief.
2. Improved Circulation: Massaging the affected areas with castor oil can help improve blood circulation, which in turn can reduce inflammation and promote healing in the joints affected by arthritis.
3. Symptom Reduction: Natural anti-inflammatory properties make castor oil an effective massage oil for arthritis pain and inflammation. Regular massage with castor oil can noticeably reduce pain within a week.
4. Soothing: Castor oil has moisturizing properties that can help soothe dry, irritated skin often associated with certain types of arthritis. Applying castor oil to the skin can provide relief from itching and discomfort.
5. Muscle Spasm Reduction: Stimulative laxative properties of castor oil increase muscle movement and reduce spasms. The ricinoleic acid in the oil reduces pain caused by inflammation and swelling, leading to reduced muscle spasms within days.
6. Antioxidant Benefits: Castor oil contains antioxidants that may help reduce oxidative stress in the body, potentially benefiting individuals with arthritis by reducing inflammation and supporting overall joint health.
7. Bone Strengthening: Castor oil accelerates the repair and healing process of damaged nerves and tissues in the bones, promoting healthy bones and muscles without additional medication.
8. Muscle Fatigue Reduction: Regular massaging of aching muscles and joints with castor oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, reduces muscle fatigue. Repeating this technique twice a week yields better results for arthritis.
How to Use Castor Oil for Arthritis?
While conventional or alternative medicine plays a significant role in healing, chemical-free remedies like pharmaceutical-grade castor oil can effectively soothe joints, reduce acute inflammation, and alleviate arthritis pain, providing much-needed comfort during painful episodes. However, the efficacy depends on how correctly one applies castor oil to mitigate arthritis-related pain and inflammation.
Below are 5 ways of applying castor oil for relieving arthritis-related pain symptoms:
#1 Castor Oil Pack
Soak a cotton pad in castor oil overnight, squeeze off the excess, and apply it to the affected area. Use a hot water pack or hot water bottle to massage the area. Apply this remedy weekly or bi-weekly depending on the intensity of pain and inflammation. Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and acute inflammation. Hot water packs alleviate arthritis pain.
#2 Castor Oil in Ginger Tea for Arthritis Relief
Prepare ginger tea by grating ginger into boiling water and letting it simmer for 5-10 minutes. After simmering, filter the pulp and add 1-2 teaspoons of castor oil for each serving. This remedy helps relieve arthritic pain and inflammation and promotes better sleep. It is recommended to take this remedy 2-3 times a week for maximum benefits.
Note:
- Avoid this remedy if you have sensitive bowel syndrome, diarrhea, or other digestive health issues due to castor oil’s laxative properties.
#3 Castor Oil and Flannel Pack for Arthritis Relief
Warm about 20 ml of castor oil. Soak a folded flannel in the warm castor oil until it absorbs the oil. Place the flannel on the affected joint and cover it with a cloth or towel. Secure the flannel with plastic wrap and leave it on for 30-45 minutes. Apply this pack 2-3 days consecutively, then take a break and continue after a week. As relief sets in, reduce the duration to 15-20 minutes.
This remedy helps reduce joint pain and inflammation. The heat from the pack aids in reducing swelling.
#4 Castor Oil Massage
Warm castor oil and soak cotton pads in it. Thoroughly massage the oil onto the arthritis-affected area. Apply a hot water pack or hot water bottle to the area. Use this therapy once a week for general joint stiffness and at least twice a week for arthritis. The oil stimulates antibody production, reducing inflammation and swelling for faster relief.
#5 Castor Oil and Capsaicin for Knee Pain Relief
Capsaicin, found in chilies and peppers, is used as a warming remedy for muscle pain. Castiva, present in castor oil lotion, has a cooling formula due to the presence of menthol. Combining both capsaicin and castiva can effectively treat knee and joint pain.
Castor Oil is effective on Arthritis and without side effects
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Conclusion
Diet, lifestyle decisions, and proper sleep and exercise are important in keeping arthritis under control. Opt for cold-pressed and pharmaceutical-grade castor oil, distinguishable by its yellow hue and viscous consistency. Such castor oil contains botanical components, minimizing the potential for adverse reactions in contrast to chemical-based medications and muscle-soothing creams.
If you need better results and no side effects, then seek out reputable producers like Ambuja Solvex castor oil manufacturers in India, who extract it naturally.