Image Source: NIFS

Joint pain can arise due to various reasons, such as osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, sprain or any other injury near the joint.Joint pain is usually common in body parts like knees, shoulders and hips. The pain may range from mild to severe and is often accompanied by stiffness and swelling. In case of joint pain rising due to arthritis, proper diagnosis and treatment is needed. So, consulting a doctor is a must. However, mild pain can be treated through home remedies. These remedies not only provide instant relief but also prevent the pain from occurring any further.

1. Massage

Massage is a great therapy to ease joint pain. This happens because massage boosts blood circulation and soothes inflammation. Moreover, a variety of studies prove that massage on a regular basis helps in alleviating pain, stiffness and range of motion in the joint.You can use a variety of oils like olive oil, coconut oil, mustard oil and castor oil. Just heat the oil slightly to lukewarm temperature and then massage on the affected joint in circular motion. Do it till the oil gets completely absorbed. Follow this remedy daily before hitting the bed.

2. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is another great remedy to heal joint pain. This is because fenugreek is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help in reducing the pain related arthritis in particular.Just swallow one teaspoon of finely ground fenugreek powder with a glass of lukewarm water. Follow this remedy regularly first thing in the morning.Alternately, soak a few fenugreek seeds in a cup of water for the entire night and then, consume these seeds the next morning.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar too is a superb ingredient to heal joint pain. It reduces the pain by flushing out accumulated toxins from the joints and connective tissues.Owing to its alkalizing effect, it is very effective on the pain related to arthritis. Moreover, apple cider vinegar is rich in several minerals, such magnesium, calcium, potassium and phosphorus. These are essential for strong muscle health.Take three teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar and some honey in one cup of lukewarm water. Stir well and then drink this solution three times in a day. Do it before having your meals. Repeat this remedy daily for quick healing.Alternately, mix one tablespoon each of olive oil and apple cider vinegar together. Now apply this solution on the affected joint and massage gently. Do it daily till the pain vanishes.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric is known to be a universal healer and an age-old Ayurvedic remedy for joint pain. This is due to the presence of an ingredient called curcumin, which possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.As per a study done in 2009 and published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, researchers basically compared turmeric’s effect with ibuprofen and found that the compound called curcumin (present in turmeric) had the same effect as ibuprofen on pain, particularly the one related to knee osteoarthritis.To consume it, just take one teaspoon of turmeric powder and mix it with some honey. Now add this concoction in glass of lukewarm milk. Consume it regularly for about a week or till the time the pain goes away.

5. Garlic

Garlic is another great healer known universally. And, it is quite effective on joint pain too.Just incorporate garlic in your curries and soups. Besides, you can also chew raw cloves of garlic first thing the morning. However, if you are afraid of bad breath, consuming garlic supplements is also a great choice. But do consult your doctor before doing so.Try another remedy by frying two cloves of garlic in about two tablespoons of sesame or mustard oil. Once the cloves turn golden brown, turn off the flame and strain the oil. Let the oil cool down and then massage your joint with this garlic infused oil.