Can stinging nettles help relieve Arthritis Pain ?

Posted on | January 22, 2009 |

The simple answer is yes, well not for all, but for many, Yes nettles really can offer some relief from the pain and inflammation . Nettles have been used for thousands of years in one form or another for there healing properties. In the case osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis many plants and natural substances exist that that are known to aid joint pain and inflammation, with the most extreme probably being the common Stinging Nettle.

There is some science behind this age old folklore. Recent studies carried out at the University of Plymouth UK, offer some scientific proof that this ancient remedy does actually work.

27 Arthritic volunteers at the University of Plymouth underwent treatments consisting of stinging nettle leaves being applied to the hands daily for a week. The results were then compared to the effect of a placebo, namely, the white deadnettle leaf, (which does not sting), also applied one week. The research indicated that stinging nettles not only significantly reduced pain, but they also diminish the level of remaining pain

How Does It Work

The theory is, the nettle leaf contains thousands of microscopic stinging spines which are thought to pierce the skin similar to acupuncture which triggers histamine (the body’s own anti-inflammatory) as well as a sting, to concentrate on the treated area, the by product being arthritis pain and inflammation relief. Pain relief was most likely to occur if a sting with weal’s (nettle rash) was produced.

This is an age old folklore, that seems to work for many people across the world. The stinging nettle is a freely available plant which grows in may countries around the world and its sting seems a safe treatment. Stinging nettles may indeed reduce the pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

How to Treat Your Arthritis Using The Stinging Nettle Treatment

Quite simple really, the best and the traditional way to treat your arthritis with stinging nettles is to grasp the plants stem with a gloved hand and then thrash the affected joint with the leaves until nettle rash appears, repeat for all affected joints, in most cases this will help reduce the pain and swelling quickly for a short period of time.

Although proof does exist, that nettles can offer short term relief, the thought of thrashing yourself with them may not be one to relish. well the good news is nature has provided many long and short term answers for most types of arthritis and there are easier and far less extreme ways of reducing your pain and inflammation believe me.

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