Treat Your Osteoarthritis with Traditional Kerala Ayurveda

Here are some key Ayurvedic treatments for osteoarthritis:

Diet:

• Personalized plan: Based on your dosha imbalance, emphasizing warm, nourishing, and easily digestible foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Focus on: Grains like rice, oats, barley, legumes, leafy greens, vegetables like broccoli and carrots, fruits like berries and papaya, and healthy fats like ghee, avocado, and olive oil.
• Avoid Cold, dry, astringent foods that aggravate Vata, such as cold cuts, processed foods, and excessive red meat.

Herbal Remedies:

• Turmeric: A potent anti-inflammatory herb, rich in curcumin, recommended in doses of 200-500mg four times a day for up to 8 months.
• Boswellia: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving, helpful for joint pain and stiffness.
• Guggulu: Blood-purifying and anti-inflammatory, reducing joint swelling.
• Ashwagandha: Adaptogenic herb, manages stress and balancing hormones, indirectly benefiting arthritis.
• Other herbs: Triphala, Guduchi, Shallaki, Nirgundi, depending on individual needs.

Panchakarma Detoxification:

• Aimed at eliminating “ama” (toxins) believed to contribute to the disease.
• Involves therapeutic procedures like medicated enemas, massages, and herbal baths to cleanse the digestive system and promote lymphatic drainage.
• If not suitable for everyone, consult a qualified practitioner for suitability.

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Gentle exercise: Yoga, stretching, low-impact activities like swimming or tai chi to improve joint flexibility and strength.
• Meditation: Manage stress and promote overall well-being.
• Adequate sleep: Crucial for managing symptoms effectively.
• Stress management: Avoiding stressful situations, and practicing relaxation techniques.

Additional Practices:

• Local fomentation: Applying herbal pastes with anti-inflammatory properties to affected joints.
• Oil therapy: Massages with warm sesame oil to improve circulation and joint mobility.
• Sauna or hot therapy: Can ease stiffness and pain