Showing posts with label #Diet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #Diet. Show all posts

Thursday, 25 June 2026

Sore Throat Diet: What to Eat (and What to Avoid) for Faster Relief

 


A sore throat can make even simple activities like eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable. Whether it's caused by a viral infection, cold, allergies, pollution, or excessive strain on the voice, the right food choices can help soothe irritation, support recovery, and keep you nourished during illness.

When your throat is inflamed, soft, warm, and easy-to-swallow foods are often the most comforting. Nutrient-rich foods can provide the vitamins, minerals, and fluids your body needs to fight infection and heal. On the other hand, certain foods and beverages may worsen irritation, increase discomfort, or delay recovery.

Hydration is equally important. Drinking adequate fluids helps keep the throat moist, reduces irritation, and prevents dehydration, especially when accompanied by fever or congestion.

In this blog, we'll explore the best foods and drinks to include when you have a sore throat, the foods that are best avoided, and practical dietary tips that can help ease symptoms and promote faster healing.

A few simple changes to your diet can make a big difference in comfort and recovery. Let's discover how food can become your ally in soothing a sore throat and getting back to feeling your best. 🌿✨

— Mallika Majumdar, Dietitian
Be Fit Diet Clinic


Mechanisms, Etiology, Dietetic Management, Prevention & Dietary Guidelines



A sore throat is usually a sign of irritation or infection in the throat lining. While medicine (when needed) helps treat the cause, nutrition can reduce irritation, support healing, maintain hydration, and preserve immunity —especially when swallowing is painful.


Seek medical care urgently if you have trouble breathing, drooling, severe pain on one side, high fever, rash, dehydration, or symptoms lasting more than 3–5 days (or recurring often).


1) Mechanisms: Why sore throats feel so painful

A sore throat often results from one (or more) of these processes:


- Inflammation and edema: immune activation increases swelling → pain and scratchiness.

- Mucosal irritation/dryness: dehydration and mouth-breathing make throat tissues less lubricated.

- Microbial effects: viruses or bacteria can directly inflame the throat lining.

- Reflux-related irritation (GERD/LPR): stomach acid can reach the throat → chronic soreness, hoarseness, burning.

- Post-nasal drip: mucus from the nose/sinuses irritates the throat, causing frequent throat clearing and discomfort.


Nutrition helps by:

- keeping the throat “moist” and comfortable,

- reducing mechanical irritation,

- providing protein + micronutrients for tissue repair,

- supporting hydration and energy intake.


2) Etiology (common causes)

Sore throat causes vary by age and season, but common ones include:


 Infectious

- Viral infections (most common): common cold, influenza-like illnesses.

- Bacterial pharyngitis (less common but important):e.g., Strep throat (often higher fever, swollen glands, no cough).


 Non-infectious

- Allergies/post-nasal drip

- Acid reflux (GERD/LPR)

- Dry air, smoking, pollution

- Overuse of voice

- Irritants: alcohol, very spicy food, smoking/vaping


3) Dietetic management: What to eat for faster relief

Your diet should follow a simple clinical goal: soothing + hydrating + healing support.


A) Prioritize hydration (this is the 1 supportive measure)

When throat tissues are hydrated, pain and burning often reduce.


Good options (warm or room temperature):

- Warm water, herbal tea (non-irritating)

- Clear soups (dal soup, vegetable soup)

- Warm water with honey (if age-appropriate; avoid honey for infants)

- Coconut water (if tolerated)

- Buttermilk/curd-based drinks (if they don’t worsen mucus for you)


Tip: Avoid very hot fluids—they can worsen inflammation.


 B) Choose soft, easy-to-swallow textures

These reduce mechanical friction on inflamed tissue.


Comfort foods:

- Khichdi (moong dal) + soft vegetables

- Oats porridge (not too thick)

- Idli, soft rice, dal-rice

- Soft soups and pureed vegetables

- Mashed banana, applesauce (if available)


 C) Ensure protein for tissue repair (even if appetite is low)

Protein supports mucosal healing and immune function.


Include:

- Dal, moong/masoor (soft, well-cooked)

- Curd/paneer (only if tolerated)

- Eggs (if non-veg)

- Chicken/fish soups (if non-veg)


Clinical approach: small frequent meals with protein is often easier than large meals.


D) Add immune-support micronutrients

Support recovery with foods rich in:

- Vitamin C: amla (if it doesn’t burn), guava, citrus (may irritate some)

- Zinc: lentils, dairy/eggs, pumpkin seeds (if tolerated)

- Vitamin A and carotenoids:  cooked carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato


If citrus or amla worsens burning, swap to cooked vitamin-rich options (carrot/pumpkin) or consult your clinician.


E) Consider soothing “therapeutic” options (simple and practical)

- Warm dal soup with mild spices

- Ginger tea (mild) if it’s not too strong for your throat

- Honey in warm water (adults/children above 1 year) for throat comfort


 4) What to avoid (common irritants that slow relief)

During a sore throat, many people feel worse with the following:


Avoid/limit

- Very spicy foods: chili, hot pickles, extra garam masala

- Fried and oily foods: can feel heavy and worsen throat discomfort

- Acidic foods/drinks if they sting: lemon, orange juice, tomato-based items (for some)

- Alcohol and smoking/vaping

- Dry, rough textures: chips, toast, crackers, very crispy snacks

- Very hot tea/coffee (heat + irritation)

- Strong peppermint/mint (may worsen reflux-related throat irritation in some)


Important: What triggers you can differ—use your body as the guide.


 5) Dietary guidelines by situation (so it’s actually usable)

If sore throat is mild and you can swallow normally

- Soft meals + hydration + protein at each meal

- Continue light activity; sleep is part of recovery


 If swallowing is painful (odynophagia)

- Pureed soups, khichdi, oats

- Avoid dry foods; focus on warm liquids and soft solids


If reflux symptoms are present (burning, sour taste, hoarseness)

- Avoid late-night meals (finish 2–3 hours before sleep)

- Reduce coffee/tea, chocolate, peppermint, very fatty/spicy foods

- Choose bland, warm foods; consider smaller portions


If there’s post-nasal drip (mucus, throat clearing)

- Hydration + warm soups

- Avoid very cold drinks

- Allergies may need targeted management


 6) Prevention: reduce the chances of recurrence

Sore throat can be prevented by addressing the common drivers:


- Hand hygiene during cold/flu seasons

- Adequate hydration and humidified air if dryness is common

- Manage reflux: avoid late meals, reduce caffeine and fatty meals if you notice triggers

- Avoid smoking/vaping

- If allergies are frequent, consistent allergy management helps reduce throat irritation


 7) Sample “Sore Throat Relief” day plan (Indian-friendly)

Breakfast: - Oats porridge (warm) + banana


Mid-morning:- Warm water or herbal tea  

- Optional: honey in warm water (adult/child > 1 year)


Lunch: - Moong dal khichdi + soft cooked bottle gourd/lauki or pumpkin  

- Light curd (if tolerated) / or warm dal soup


Evening snack:- Idli with mild sambar (not spicy) OR clear soup


Dinner:  - Soft rice + dal + vegetable soup  

- Keep spices mild; finish dinner 2–3 hours before sleep


 Conclusion: The goal is “soothe, hydrate, heal”

A sore throat diet from Be Fit Diet Clinic focuses on:

- soothing textures and warmth,

- hydration and electrolytes,

- protein + micronutrients to support repair,

- avoiding spicy, acidic, fried, dry irritants.




Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The content reflects general nutrition and health recommendations and may not be suitable for everyone. Individual health conditions, medications, allergies, and nutritional requirements can vary significantly.
Always consult your physician, registered dietitian, or other qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or treatment plan. The author and Be Fit Diet Clinic are not responsible for any adverse effects, losses, or consequences resulting from the use of information presented in this blog.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.




Wednesday, 3 June 2026

Tachycardia: When Your Heart Beats Too Fast – Causes, Symptoms, and Lifestyle Management

 


Hello everyone,

Welcome to my new blog post! Today, I would like to talk about Tachycardia, a condition in which the heart beats faster than normal while at rest. Generally, a resting heart rate above 100 beats per minute in adults is considered tachycardia.

Our heart naturally speeds up during exercise, stress, excitement, or illness. However, when it continues to beat too fast without an obvious reason, it may require medical attention. Symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fatigue, or even fainting in some cases.

Tachycardia can occur due to various reasons such as heart conditions, fever, anemia, thyroid disorders, dehydration, excessive caffeine intake, certain medications, or emotional stress. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

A heart-healthy lifestyle plays a vital role in managing and reducing the risk of tachycardia. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in regular physical activity can support overall cardiovascular health.

In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and dietary considerations for individuals experiencing tachycardia. Understanding your heart is the first step toward protecting it.

Your heart works tirelessly for you every day—take care of it, listen to it, and never ignore its signals.



Understanding Tachycardia: When the Heart Beats Too Fast


It’s normal for your heart rate to jump when you exercise, feel stressed, or have caffeine. But sometimes your heart starts racing—even when you’re resting. That can be a sign of tachycardia, a condition that affects how fast your heart beats.


In this guide for wellness-focused readers, we’ll explain what tachycardia is, what can cause it, when to worry, and what you can do next—practically and safely.


What Is Tachycardia?


Tachycardia means your heart rate is faster than normal. In many adults, it’s commonly defined as a resting heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute.


Your heart rate can be fast for different reasons:

- Some are temporary and harmless (like anxiety, dehydration, or caffeine).

- Others can be related to an underlying health issue that needs attention.


What Does Tachycardia Feel Like?


People may notice:

- Racing or pounding heartbeat

- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

- Shortness of breath

- Chest discomfort

- Weakness or fatigue

- Anxiety or a sense of “something isn’t right”


Sometimes, tachycardia causes no symptoms and is found during monitoring. Other times, it comes with symptoms that deserve prompt care.


Common Types 


Doctors describe tachycardia by where the abnormal electrical signals start. You may hear terms like:

- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): Often starts above the heart’s lower pumping chambers; can start and stop suddenly.

- Atrial fibrillation (AFib): Irregular rhythm that can cause fast heart rates and increases stroke risk.

- Ventricular tachycardia (VT): Starts lower in the heart; can be more serious and requires urgent evaluation.


You don’t need to memorize these—what matters is that “tachycardia” can have different causes and levels of urgency.



Why Does Tachycardia Happen? (Common Causes)


Tachycardia can be triggered by lifestyle factors, body stress, or medical conditions.


Lifestyle / day-to-day triggers

- Stress, anxiety, panic

- Caffeine or energy drinks

- Nicotine

- Poor hydration

- Alcohol

- Lack of sleep


Body-related and medical causes

- Dehydration

- Anemia (low iron/low red blood cells)

- Thyroid problems (especially hyperthyroidism)

- Infections or fever

- Low blood sugar or blood sugar instability

- Electrolyte imbalances (like low potassium or magnesium)

- Heart rhythm conditions(like AFib or SVT)

- Certain medications or supplements (including stimulants)



When Is Tachycardia an Emergency?


Please don’t “wait it out” if tachycardia comes with warning signs. Get emergency care immediately if you have:


- Chest pain/pressure

- Severe shortness of breath

- Fainting or near-fainting

- New confusion

- Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking)

- A very fast heart rate that does not improve and feels dangerous


If the rapid heartbeat is mild but keeps recurring, it still deserves medical evaluation.


What Should You Do If It Happens to You?


If you experience a fast heartbeat, try these safe, wellness-friendly steps—especially if you don’t have severe symptoms:


1) Check your basics

- Sit down and take slow breaths.

- Sip water if you might be dehydrated.

- Avoid caffeine/nicotine for now.


2) Try a calming technique

- Slow breathing (for example, inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 6 seconds).

- Grounding exercises if anxiety is part of the trigger.


3) Pay attention to patterns

- Does it happen after meals? During workouts? After stress?

- Does it correlate with caffeine, alcohol, or poor sleep?

- Does it start and stop suddenly?


That information helps your clinician pinpoint the likely cause.


Wellness Steps That May Help (But Don’t Replace Medical Care)


Many people can reduce triggers and improve overall cardiovascular health with targeted habits:


Hydration + steady fueling

- Drink enough water throughout the day.

- Avoid going long periods without eating if blood sugar swings trigger symptoms.


Reduce stimulant triggers

- Cut back energy drinks and high-caffeine beverages.

- Watch “pre-workout” supplements and fat burners (many contain stimulants).


Support electrolyte balance

- Get adequate minerals through food (especially magnesium- and potassium-rich foods).

- If you have frequent episodes, ask a clinician whether bloodwork is needed.


Sleep and stress support

- Prioritize consistent sleep timing.

- Practice stress reduction daily (walking, breathing, gentle yoga, journaling).



Nutrition and Lifestyle: How They Connect to Heart Rate


Your heart rate is influenced by your nervous system, blood volume (hydration), oxygen delivery, and metabolic stability.


For example:

- If you’re under-fueled or eating high-sugar meals, blood sugar can swing—some people feel racing heart sensations.

- If you’re dehydrated, your body compensates by increasing heart rate to maintain circulation.

- If anxiety and stress drive adrenaline, heart rate can rise quickly.


A “better body rhythm” plan often includes hydration, balanced meals, and consistent movement—not extreme restrictions.


When to Get Checked (Even If It Passes)


Make an appointment if:

- Episodes happen repeatedly

- Your resting heart rate is consistently elevated

- You have risk factors (family history of arrhythmias, thyroid disease, diabetes)

- You notice worsening symptoms over time


A clinician may recommend:

- An ECG/EKG

- Holter monitor or event monitor

- Bloodwork (thyroid, anemia, electrolytes)



Tachycardia is a fast heartbeat, but the “why” matters. Sometimes it’s related to stress, dehydration, caffeine, or sleep issues—and often those can improve with lifestyle changes. Other times, it may be connected to an underlying rhythm problem or medical condition that requires evaluation.


If your heart is racing and you feel unwell, trust your instincts. Get checked—your heart health is worth it.


“Better habits. Safer rhythms.”








Thursday, 28 May 2026

Ulcer-Friendly Nutrition : What to Eat for Faster Healing

 





Ulcers are not just a “burning stomach problem”—they involve a complex interaction between acid/pepsin, mucosal defense, infection, and lifestyle factors. Diet can’t replace medical treatment, but it plays a major role in symptom control, healing support, and prevention of recurrence.


Important: If you have alarm symptoms (vomiting blood, black stools, unexplained weight loss, trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting), seek medical care urgently.


1) Mechanisms: how ulcers form

A. Gastric and duodenal ulcers (peptic ulcers)

Most peptic ulcers develop when the stomach/duodenum lining is damaged faster than it can repair.


Key mechanisms:

- Mucosal imbalance: weakening of the protective mucus-bicarbonate barrier

- Acid + pepsin injury: hydrochloric acid and pepsin damage exposed tissue

- Impaired healing: inflammation reduces regeneration capacity


B. Esophageal ulcers (esophageal injury/ulceration)

Esophageal ulcers are commonly linked to reflux (GERD) or severe esophageal inflammation.

Key mechanism:

- Repeated acid exposure to the esophageal lining → irritation → erosion → ulceration in severe cases


2) Etiology (causes and contributors)

The major causes

1. H. pylori infection (strongly associated with gastric and duodenal ulcers)  

2. NSAIDs (painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen) which reduce protective prostaglandins and increase mucosal damage


Additional contributors

- Smoking

- Alcohol

- High stress (can worsen symptoms; contributes through behavioral/lifestyle pathways)

- Irregular meals / skipping meals (can aggravate discomfort)

- Dietary patterns that increase reflux or irritation (varies person to person)

- Severe reflux / hiatal hernia (for esophageal ulcers)


3) Dietetic management: what to eat to heal and stay comfortable

Diet management focuses on:

- Reducing irritation

- Supporting mucosal healing

- Maintaining nutrition and protein intake

- Avoiding reflux triggers (especially for esophageal involvement)


The “ulcer-friendly” diet principles

1) Choose soft, bland, and easily digestible foods (during flares)

- Cooked grains: oats, suji/semolina (not too coarse), rice, khichdi

- Soft proteins: dal, curd/paneer if tolerated, eggs (if you eat)

- Gentle vegetables: lauki, bottle gourd, carrot (cooked), pumpkin, spinach (cooked)


2) Use gentle fats and cooking methods

- Prefer steaming, boiling, baking, stewing

- Limit deep-frying and heavy gravies

- Avoid very spicy tadka and chili oil during active symptoms


3) Don’t eliminate food groups blindly—balance matters

Healing requires adequate:

- Protein (for tissue repair)

- Calories (to avoid weight loss during painful recovery)

- Micronutrients (zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, B vitamins)


4) Dietary guidelines by ulcer type

A) Gastric & Duodenal ulcer dietary guidance

During symptoms, aim for:

- Smaller meals 4–6 times/day (avoid “empty stomach” long gaps if it worsens you)

- Avoid foods that increase irritation or acid secretion for you personally


Usually tolerated better:

- Plain idli/dosa (less spicy chutney)

- Khichdi with soft dal

- Oats porridge

- Boiled/steamed vegetables

- Rice + dal + mild sabji

- Yogurt/curd or buttermilk if it doesn’t worsen your burning


Often worse for many people:

- Very spicy foods, chili, pickles

- Fried foods

- Tea/coffee on an empty stomach

- Alcohol

- Tomato products if they trigger burning (some people are sensitive)


B) Esophageal ulcer / reflux-related guidance (GERD/ulceration)

For esophageal ulcers, diet must primarily:

- reduce reflux triggers

- increase symptom-safe eating habits


Core guidelines:

- Avoid eating within 2–3 hours of bedtime

- Use smaller portions

- Keep meals slower (avoid overeating)


Common reflux triggers to limit/avoid:

- Tea/coffee

- Chocolate

- Mint

- Fatty/fried foods

- Very spicy foods

- Citrus (lemon/orange) and tomato (if triggers your burning)

- Carbonated drinks


Better tolerated:

- Oats, idli, soft roti/chapati with mild sabji

- Warm, non-acidic foods

- Lean proteins (dal, eggs, curd if tolerated)

- Cooked vegetables and soups


5) Foods and nutrients that may support healing

These are “supportive,” not miracle cures.


1) Protein for tissue repair

- Dal, rajma/chole (only if tolerated), eggs, fish/chicken, paneer/tofu


2) Vitamin C (support collagen and repair pathways)

- Amla, guava, oranges—but only if tolerated (some ulcer patients find citrus irritating). If it burns, choose alternatives or consult your dietitian.


3) Zinc for mucosal healing

- Pumpkin seeds, legumes, dairy/eggs, whole grains


4) Omega-3 / anti-inflammatory support (if tolerated)

- Flaxseed (ground), chia (start small), fish (if non-veg)


5) “Soothing” options (individual tolerance)

- Oats, banana, curd (if not worsening), warm soups


6) What to avoid: practical “ulcer irritation” list

Avoid or limit during active ulcers or reflux flare-ups:


- Spicy foods (chili, garam masala heavy use, hot sauces)

- Fried/greasy foods

- Pickles, vinegar-based sauces

- Citrus and tomato if they worsen burning

- Coffee, strong tea, energy drinks

- Alcohol

- Carbonated beverages

- Very late-night meals

- Smoking (major healing inhibitor)


Personalization matters: Two people can react differently. Track your triggers for 1–2 weeks.


7) Sample “Ulcer-Friendly” day plan (Indian style)

Breakfast:

- Oats porridge (milk/soy/curd if tolerated) + banana


Mid-morning: 

- Warm water or light buttermilk (if tolerated)


Lunch:

- Khichdi + soft dal  

- Cooked vegetable (lauki/pumpkin)


Evening snack:  

- Idli (plain) or curd (if tolerated) + mild oats/fruit


Dinner:  

- Rice + dal + mild sabji  

- Keep dinner light and finish 2–3 hours before sleep


If reflux is prominent: reduce tea/coffee and keep fat low at dinner.


8) Prevention: reducing recurrence risk

Diet prevention focuses on maintaining mucosal health and avoiding reflux triggers.


Preventive pillars

- Complete H. pylori treatment if prescribed (diet can’t eradicate it)

- Avoid NSAIDs unless your doctor approves

- Maintain regular meal timings

- Avoid smoking and excess alcohol

- Manage stress and sleep

- For esophageal ulcers: avoid late meals, elevate head of bed if recommended


9) When diet must be adjusted (clinic-level personalization)

We tailor diet based on:

- ulcer location (gastric vs duodenal vs esophageal)

- severity and current symptoms

- presence of anemia/low B12/iron

- other conditions (diabetes, IBS, celiac, etc.)

- whether you’re vegetarian/non-veg

- medication schedule (especially PPIs and antibiotic regimens)



Key Takeaway

Ulcer-friendly nutrition is about gentle digestion, adequate repair nutrition, and symptom control through smart food choices. 

- For gastric/duodenal ulcers:  protect the lining, avoid irritants, eat smaller balanced meals.  

- For esophageal ulcers: control reflux—timing, portion size, and trigger reduction are critical.


At Be Fit Diet Clinic, we create individualized ulcer-friendly meal plans based on your ulcer type, symptoms, and health profile—so you can heal comfortably and reduce recurrence.


#these are my opinion, individual results may vary. the diet should be based on clinical, physiological, biochemical and medical parameters of an individual




Tuesday, 16 July 2024

ARTHRITIS: REMEDIES TO EASE THE ACHE

 ARTHRITIS



It’s winter time! Holidays, thanks giving, festivals,  foods and lots of enjoyment. But winter is a time for joint pains and aches. Arthritis is one such problem. It may be the oldest known ailment on Earth. Mummies in Egypt, prehistoric people, even the  dinosaurs had it. 


There may be 100 types of arthritis but Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common.

Patients complaints of pain and stiffness in the large joints due to arthritis in ALKAPTONURIA.



REMEDIES TO EASE THE ACHE-

  • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT- The more you are overweight, the more stress and pressure you place on your joints.

  • EXERCISE- Take up tai chi or Chinese shadow boxing. When practiced correctly , it relaxes all joints. Yoga also helps. Aerobic exercise programs work well.

  • LESSEN YOUR STRESS- People who have things in their lives under control are better pain managers than people who don’t.

  • RELAX- Listen to music , read books, gardening etc. helps

  • Apply muscle ointment in the night to prevent morning stiffness

  • SWIMMING- in warm water relaxes the stiff joints. WATER EXERCISES work wonders.

  • MASSAGE- massage with oil and then steam or moist heat with warm towels or soaking hands and feet in warm water relaxes.

  • ICE PACKS- Apply for 15-20 minutes, then remove for 15 minutes, repeat.

  • HEAT- When joints become hot, swollen and tender, heat is the best solution.

  • Oily fish such as mackerel, salmon and herring provide omega 3 fatty acids that ease swelling and pain. Fish oil supplements in case someone does not like fish. Don’t over consume

  • Vitamin C has a positive influence on the course of disease. Citrus fruits, kiwi, sweet peppers.

  • Avoid solanine containing foods like potatoes, brinjal, tomato

  • Include Vegetable oils rich in EFA- sesame, safflower seed, sunflower seed

  • Groundnut and cashew nut

  • Cherries

  • Mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds , coriander seeds, sesame seeds, fennel seeds

  • Ginger, black pepper, garlic

  • Vitamin D

  • Vitamin E ( abundant in plant oils intercepts so called oxygen radicals which form in greater quantities with acute inflammatory diseases

  • Avoid coffee, alcohol, and nicotine. Reduce saturated fat intake by cutting down on meat, fatty cheese, butter and cream, avoid processed foods specially nitrates

  • Diet rich in fruits, vegetables, salads, whole grains, reduced fat milk helps ease the symptoms

Osteoarthritis- It is a degenerative joint disease

  • Apply cold moor mud or fuller’s earth poultices or mud bath is beneficial

  • Rub arnica oil 

  • Drink a cup of stinging nettle tea 3 times a day. Use 1 tbsp. Add dried herb in 250 ml of water and allow it to steep for 10 minutes.

  • Try Borage oil capsules

  • Salves containing arnica, comfrey or capsaicin ( active ingredients in chilli peppers)

  • Root of devil’s claw

  • OIL WRAP- Soak a cotton cloth in hot water and wring it out.

Mix rosemary, marjoram and lavender oil in equal proportions , put 10 drops of mixture onto the cloth. Wrap on the affected joints for about 10 minutes a day. 


Rheumatoid arthritis- It’s an autoimmune disease as well as metabolic disease that results in joint pains and deformity

  • Low Fiber diet results in Rheumatoid arthritis

Diet should provide adequate amounts of fiber, iron, copper, folic acid and vitamin B12. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis excreted 0.5 mg folic acid daily in their stools (Girdwood, 1950) 

Negative nitrogen balance has been reported to occur in rheumatoid arthritis so good quality protein should be consumed

  • Ice pack

  • Cold pack of mud, fuller’s earth or clay

  • Relax . Relaxation techniques also eases pain

  • Stinging nettle tea, Meadowsweet or heartsease (1-2 tsp per 250 ml water)

  • Celery infusion- mince 1 heaped tablespoon of celery and pour 250 ml water over it. Boil, steep briefly and strain. Sweeten with honey and drink 500 ml a day. DO NOT USE IT IN KIDNEY INFECTIONS

  • Sulphide waters and radioactive waters work well.