The subject of the case was a 27-year old mother who had just given birth by caesarian section. The patient said that the symptoms started the following month after delivery. She would then complain of pain and swelling in both knees and ankles, morning stiffness, anorexia, and body aches.
After determining that the symptoms that the patient was having were similar to those set forth by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) for rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune disease wherein the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. This may lead to cartilage damage and joint deformity. (Related: Scorpion venom: A natural remedy for rheumatoid arthritis?)
The researchers also used Ayurvedic principles for their diagnosis and determined the condition to be amamvata, a condition similar to rheumatoid arthritis.
To treat the condition, the patient was given the following medication.
- Simhanada guggulu (250 mg) and Pratapalankeshwara rasa (250 mg), administered thrice a day after meals - Simhanada guggulu is an Ayurvedic medicine used for joint pains, swelling and inflammation caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Pratapalankeshwara rasa (or Pratap Lankeshwar Ras) is used to treat chronic fever and diarrhea.
- Dashamoola katutraya kashaya (20 mL), given with warm water twice daily after food intake - This medicine is widely used to treat respiratory conditions.
- A combination of Swarnabhupati rasa (60 mg), mahavatavidhvansa (125 mg) and Tapyadi loha (125 mg) and Chopachini (Smilax china), Shunthi (Zinziber officinale), and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), taken twice a day with honey - These herbs are all used to manage pain.
The patient also underwent panchakarma treatment, which included the topical application of medicated oil and sudation of the body in a wooden steam chamber and kala basti. Panchakarma (which translates to five cleansing actions) is a purification therapy designed to eliminate toxins from the body by balancing the energetic forces in the body.
Fifteen days after the first treatment, the subject noted a significant decrease in body ache and anorexia. The need for analgesics was also cut down. A month after the procedure, there was a noticeable reduction in morning stiffness, with it being grossly reduced, together with tenderness and joint edema 75 days after the start of medication. Finally, four months after the start of treatments, the patient was free of symptoms and did not need analgesics.
Through the case report, researchers concluded that with the right use of Ayurveda principles, relief from RA is possible, especially when lactation in mothers limits the use of modern medicines. "[Nowadays], incidence of amavata in postpartum stage is increasing," researchers wrote. "With apt application of Ayurveda principles good results can be seen." They also added that further studies would be needed to properly identify the mechanisms in Ayurveda treatment that address rheumatoid arthritis.
Natural treatments to relieve rheumatoid arthritis
Those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis need not fret since there are natural solutions to help save your joints without you ever going to the bank.
- Get enough sleep and rest. Regular rest and sleep patterns greatly benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Low impact exercises. Walking, swimming and water aerobics are a great way to stay fit without overburdening your joints.
- Try Tai Chi. This ancient form of Chinese martial arts has been proven to ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, using slow, gentle movements that promote wellness and deep breathing.
- Add fish oil to your diet. It contains omega-3 fatty acids that lower inflammation due to swelling and pain.
- Try using essential oils. These oils from various plants are rich in nutrients and minerals that ease pain and inflammation. Some of these include peppermint, orange, ginger, frankincense, myrrh, and turmeric.
- Try heat and cold. An ice pack can help reduce swelling, numb pain and relax muscles; while tight, aching muscles need a warm bath or shower to soothe them. A hot towel, heating pad, and a hot pack will soothe tight muscles and lessen pain and stiffness.
- Go for vegetables. Get most of your protein from vegetables like spinach, nut butter, tofu, beans, lentils, and quinoa instead of meat and dairy.
- Go natural. Avoid salt, preservatives, and additives from your diet. Read food labels well to check if these are on the list of ingredients.
You don't need to be a prisoner of rheumatoid arthritis, even if it runs in the family, or age is catching up with you. Your body should move freely and allow you to bond with friends and loved ones. It should let you go where you want to go. Ayurvedic medicine and natural remedies will show you the way.
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