Today, millions of people suffer the painful symptoms of arthritis and related diseases, which include inflammation, swelling, redness, pain and stiffness.

Although there are literally hundreds of different kinds of arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout are the three most common. As far as treatments are concerned, until recently the most popular have been the NSAIDs, or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs; unfortunately these prescription medications come with potentially painful side effects.

The good news is that many natural remedies for arthritis can be quite effective in providing pain relief and may be a good option for those who cannot take medication due to side-effects or other problems.

These remedies can also be taken along with the prescribed drugs as a support therapy. However, please ensure that you consult with your physician before taking anything orally, especially if you suffer from diabetes or heart trouble.

Natural remedies

The following herbal remedies are believed to be highly effective for all forms of joint ailments

A cup of papaya seed tea taken six or seven times daily for two to three weeks.

Garlic cloves fried in butter.

Chapatti made of roasted grams flour in clarified butter.

Half teaspoon of turmeric powder dissolved in warm water and taken at least thrice a day; this is held to be especially helpful in curing arthritis. A teaspoonful of turmeric in hot milk is considered the ideal treatment for all kinds of bone and muscle pains, especially in case of injury.

Two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and two teaspoons of honey dissolved in a small glass of warm water, taken twice a day. Alternatively, you can try fresh carrot juice mixed with equal parts of lemon juice; take one teaspoon a day.

Two teaspoons of winter cherry mixed with ghee and molasses. This should be taken first thing in the morning for two weeks or so for maximum benefit.

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acid and vitamins.

Bananas are considered the best fruit for joint problems as they provide strength and grease to the joints. Carrot juice is also highly beneficial as it strengthens the ligaments.

Ointments and massage oils

Rub the aching joints with hot apple cider vinegar before going to bed. Different types of massage oil can be made by mixing

Methyl salicylate camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol, or two parts pure olive oil and one part of kerosene oil, or equal amounts of camphor oil and sunflower oil.

Simply massaging affected areas with olive oil can be beneficial as well.

In addition, a warm bath is an age-old remedy for joint pains. Exercise is also very important as it increases your joint flexibility and strengthens your bones. Exercise in water — it can reduce pain and improves flexibility.