Rheumatism is a general term which covers any inflammatory process in the muscles or joints. Here its meaning will be limited to muscular rheumatism as arthritis has already been covered. Much of the advice for fibrositis is also relevant as this is sometimes simply placed under the healing of rheumatism.
Home remedies for Rheumatism
Aromatherapy - To aid the cleansing of the tissues, essential oils are probably best used in the bath; appropriate oils are Cypress , Juniper, Pine and Rosemary, while Lavender may be added for greater muscle relaxation. Lavender and Rosemary are in addition quite analgesic in effect, giving some welcome relief from the pains and stiffness. If not too uncomfortable, massaging in a choice from these two, or else Juniper or Marjoram, diluted to 2 per cent in a base vegetable oil, speeds up the removal of toxins and improves blood supply to the affected muscles, and can be done regularly.
Home Treatment for Rheumatism
As a rule, the emphasis of natural treatments is placed even more on detoxifying the system than is the case with joint problems, removing waste matter that congests and irritates the muscles to allow greater freedom of movement. A combination of dietary changes, exercise within limits of comfort, and other natural methods outlined in this section can dramatically improve rheumatic disorders over time. Improves blood supply to the affected muscles, and can be done regularly.
Herbalism - Elimination of irritant waste materials can be encouraged very effectively by herbal remedies. Try Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) as a first choice for home use; the leaf is more diuretic, increasing output from the kidneys, while the root is a gentle liver tonic and mild laxative.
For maximum benefit, make the leaf as an infusion and the root as a decoction, and take each for a week. They can be combined with an herb such as Nettle (Urtica dioica), which is not only rich in various minerals but acts as a "blood cleanser", helping to provide the means for tissue repair and renewal. If pain is a significant factor, a remedy like Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) can be very useful. These last two herbs can be used as infusions for a couple of weeks; for persistent discomfort get professional treatment.
If the circulation is definitely restricted, and the aching and stiffness are made worse by damp, cold weather, add a small amount of fresh Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) to any infusion. Ginger root is a strong circulatory stimulant and has a large part to play in treating many rheumatic/arthritic disorders.
Homeopathy - Here are a few potentially helpful remedies; also compare with the suggestions for other conditions in this section which may be appropriate.
ACTAEA RAG: particularly good for painful, stiff muscles in the back and neck; also good for aching muscles after exercise or for neuralgic pains.
ARNICA: for general aching of limbs, with a feeling of being bruised.
BRYONIA: for stiffness and swelling, for instance of the hands and arms; it the joints feel uncomfortable and "crack" with movement, this remedy may well be very useful too.
Naturopathy - It is important to keep active as far as possible, so exercise is to be encourages within individual limits of ability. Diet should be aimed at reducing acid waste matter, with plenty of vegetables and fresh fruit (with the probable exception of oranges) and very little refined carbohydrates or sugary foods. A supplement may be useful: take a multi-vitamin and mineral tablet once a day or else initially just takes Vitamin B supplement. In winter, especially in cooler climates, taking a fish oil supplement such as cod liver oil capsules may ease stiffness.
