Granted, I'm getting older . . . but for the very first time I'm exhibiting real signs of long-lasting arthritis in my hands. I suppose this should not be a surprise. I recognize that in the past there has been some damage done to my hands due to over-use and over-zealous weeding, etc., and yes, I guess it's pay back time.
So, when I woke up about 2 weeks ago and couldn't close my hand without screaming I was very aware that "Arthur" had come for a visit - I just didn't know if it would be an extensive stay or not. I'm still working on the whole issue and thought, since I'm going through this, I could perhaps help someone else who's going through it as well. First of all, I tried the grape juice and pectin thing - and when you google or look up the natural approach to handling arthritis this is one of so-call cures that WILL come up. It may help you - it didn't help me.
Second, this Spring I made some White Willow Tincture and some Meadowsweet Tincture and so far the tinctures have really helped. They haven't fixed it completely but they do really ease the pain and make my ability to use my right hand easier. At least I could curl my hand a little. I couldn't quite make a tight fist but I was able to hold onto stuff.
I didn't take the tincture for 2 days and I'm back at the beginning - not being able to close my hand and feeling intense pain; so obviously, this leads me to believe that I have a lot of inflammation. Therefore, I'm in the process of making homemade turmeric pills (turmeric fights inflammation) and starting the tinctures again. I am now focusing on inflammation fighting foods such as greens - beet greens, spinach, kale, swiss chard - tuna, salmon, nuts, beets, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, onions, ginger, berries, cherries, and other good stuff. I don't know exactly what triggered my little darlin's visit but I'll keep you apprised of any further events; and hopefully, I can send him on his way. NOW REMEMBER WHAT I SAID - no laughing!!!
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