Ginger Root: A Potent Remedy Against Joint Pain

Joint pain, also called arthralgia, ranges from a mild ache to a severe, burning sensation in the joints. Most of the time, it is due to arthritis which has several types such as osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, viral arthritis, and spondylarthritis. There are also cases wherein the pain is caused by some other conditions including leukemia, hypothyroidism, hemochromatosis, osteomalacia, osteomyelitis, Paget's Disease of Bone, and Sarcoidosis.

Joint pain is usually associated with other symptoms such as red and warm skin, joint swelling and stiffness, weight loss, fatigue or fever.

For those individuals suffering from joint pain caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the use of ginger root can greatly provide some relief.

Yes, there are NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) available to help us attain relief from joint pains and inflammation. However, taking of them in large doses for a long time (months or years) may increase our risk of suffering from various side effects which include stomach bleeding, heart attack, stroke, kidney or liver problems, headaches, dizziness, allergic reactions like throat swelling and wheezing, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), heartburn, and leg swelling.

Due to these, many of us look for alternatives that are all-natural, does not cause such horrible side effects in the process, and as good as NSAIDs when it comes to relieving inflammation and joint pain.

At present, ginger root is one of the most popular remedies for joint pain. Many scientists believed in its potent healing properties. Ginger was actually been used in Ayurvedic and Chines healing as a treatment for various conditions, including joint pain.

Impressive Reasons Why Ginger Root Is Effective Against Joint Pain

According to lab tests, ginger contains gingerols, compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve pain, threat swelling, prevent damage to the cartilages, and improve function for all types of arthritis. These compounds work as a COX-2 inhibitor, the same way as common medications for rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis.

Also, a compound called shogaol was also present in ginger essential oil. It has anti-oxidant properties that help fight oxidative stress that can cause cell damage in the DNA and results in cell death and inflammation. Due to the presence of α, β-unsaturated ketone, shogaol has been found to be amazingly effective.

Moreover, experts believed that ginger can help control the production of cytokines and leukotrienes which are both involved in the immune response which cause rheumatoid arthritis.

Lastly, ginger contains salicylate which is turned by the body into salicylic acid, a component with potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities that can help reduce prostaglandin production (compound necessary for inflammation).

Several Ways Of Using Ginger Root Against Joint Pain

When it comes to a painful and swelling joint, we can use fresh ginger root or its powdered form.

1. Place 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root in a cup of hot water and allow to steep for 15 minutes. Strain and add a teaspoon of lemon juice or honey for additional taste and benefits. Drink the tea regularly.
2. Put a ½ inch piece of fresh ginger root in the mouth every morning and allow it to stay for several minutes.
3. Make a ginger tincture by filling a jar roughly 1/2 to 3/4 way full with chopped ginger. Pour high-proof alcohol (vodka or brandy) over top, until the jar is almost filled. Seal the jar with the lid, shake well and store in a dark cabinet for around two weeks, shaking periodically. After two to three weeks, strain and store the finished ginger tincture in a cool, dark place. Label the bottle "ginger root tincture" and with the date of preparation. The adult dose of ginger root herbal tincture is 3 ml added to warm water as needed.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of grated ginger root and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan for about 3 minutes. Once cold, massage it on the affected areas.
5. Place 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root and 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of lukewarm water. After 5 minutes, add 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper into the mixture. Stir and enjoy!