Herbs for Strong Joints and Muscle Recovery

Our joints' heath is essential when it comes to every physical activity we do, be it simply going to the store or sweating off at a heavy gym session. An American Medical study shows that 50 million adults and 300,000 children in the U.S. suffer from arthritis.The condition is characterised by joint inflammation, pain and stiffness. We take a look at some of the natural remedies that prove to alleviate arthritis symptoms and pain. 

Borage Oil

The Borago officinalis plant or otherwise knowns as the starflower, are known to contain big quantities of omega-6 fatty acid GLA.GLA helps maintain the cell structure and healthy functioning of joints. The body also converts GLA into prostaglandins, which act like hormones to support the immune system. GLA helps stop joint inflammation and may also prevent some of the body’s inflammatory responses.

Turmeric

One of the most potent Indian plants, it contains the potent agent curcumin, which is known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric could be taken as a supplement, but can also be taken as powder, mixed in warm milk, making for a delicious treat. 

Cat's Claw

A native vibe plant from Central and South America, some studies show that it has properties beating joint pain and inflammation. Cat's Claw should be taken in moderate quantities and should be avoided by pregnant women. 

Eucalyptus

The oil extracted from eucalyptus leaves is proven to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.It also is used as an antioxidant. 

Some studies show that eucalyptus leaf extracts significantly reduce the levels of two inflammatory enzymes: interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. This may help to reduce symptoms of inflammation, such as joint pain.It's best to use eucalyptus as an essential oil, which can be inhaled or mixed in a warm bath. 

What's muscle soarness?

Muscle soreness is a side effect of the stress put on muscles when you exercise. It is commonly called Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, or DOMS, and it is completely normal. DOMS usually begins within 6-8 hours after a new activity or a change in activity, and can last up to 24-48 hours after the exercise. The muscle pain is due to inflammation within the muscle, which is one of the main triggers for this muscle soreness.

When do we experience DOMS?

We usually experience muscle soreness when starting a new physical activity, when switching between various activities or if we do the same activity over and over again, without a sufficient rest in between. 

Supplements aiding muscle sourness

Turmeric

The golden Indian herb seems to be good for almost anything bodily-related.It promotes healthy joint function and mobility by supporting the body's inflammatory response, and its antioxidant action can help support the body after a workout. Turmeric has been used to support the body's response to occasional pain and promote normal inflammatory function - such as after pushing your body during exercise.

Boswellia

Also known as Indian Frankincense, Boswellia has traditionally been used to support a healthy response to occasional pain and to promote a healthy inflammatory response by naturally inhibiting certain enzymes. It also supports healthy, comfortable joints and promotes healthy blood flow to the body's connective tissue. In addition, Boswellia's support for a healthy inflammatory response also supports gut health - an aspect of health you may know all too well during long runs and strenuous workouts - by nourishing the mucosal lining of the GI tract.

Green Tea

Green tea has been shows to posses strong metabolic properties and has been used for thousands of years as an anti-oxidant, supporting metabolic and cardiovascular health.Combined with additional caffein, green tea is shown to improve endurance and to aid muscle-building.

American Ginseng 

The name of the American Ginseng comes from the word panacea, and the word Ginseng means "wonder of the world." Long used by the Native American populations of North America, American Ginseng is said to be energetically cooler than the Asian counterpart, and in traditional Chinese medicine it was used as a yin tonic. It takes at least seven years for the root to mature, and often much longer! 

In the past, it was used as a tonifying herb for the nervous system, also as a digestion aid. Modern herbalists classify American Ginseng as an adaptogen. In addition, American Ginseng supports healthy metabolism of lactic acid, which is important to athletes and to all physically- active people.