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Aloe Vera aids the management of many problems and these pages are designed to educate and inform the
visitor. Suggestions made are not to be interpreted as a medical consultation.
Aloe Vera in the treatment of Osteo Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
The condition of Arthritis is familiar to most of us and affects many thousands of people every year. Osteo Arthritis is caused by wear and tear of the large weight
bearing joints, such as the knees, ankles and hips. It also occurs quicker in the highly mobile joints of the cervical and lumbar spine as well as the shoulder girdle.
The lubrication and ease of movement of these joints are maintained by synovial fluid within the joint and the healthiness of the cartilage which surrounds the interface of the
bones at the joint. With age and over use, the synovial fluid shrinks and cartilage undergoes wear and tear, eventually causing bone to grind against bone. This causes pain and poor mobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is caused by auto anti-bodies which are produced by our own immune system. These anti-bodies attack the synovial lining of the joints and cause
destruction of the synovial membrane and cartilage. This results in inflammation which is characterised by pain, swelling, heat and redness. The condition can affect any age
group. Immunologically induced arthritis can also be part of other systemic illnesses such as Lupus (SLE), Scleroderma, etc.
How Aloe Vera Works In Acute, Painful and Swollen Joints
Acutely inflamed swollen joints caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis or trauma respond very well to ingestion of Aloe Vera Juice, as well as topical application
of Aloe Vera Cream or jelly on the affected joints. Aloe Vera contains anti-inflammatory agents such as Bradykininase, salicylates, natural steroids called phyto-steroids and vitamins A,B,C and E
which act as powerful anti-oxidants. They act by mopping up high speed super oxides produced during the process of inflammation. Aloe Vera is also high in
mineral content; these are needed for enzyme reactions in the joint and allow the joint to heal quicker.
Chronic Arthritis
Osteo Arthritis and long standing Rheumatoid Arthritis eventually result in deformation of the joint and loss of function.
Marked improvements can be made with Aloe Vera if taken on a regular basis. Aloe Vera contains high levels of glucosamine which is required for cartilage formation.
The anti-inflammatory effects of Aloe Vera relieve sore and inflamed joints. The lignin content in Aloe Vera allows for deep penetration through the skin.
Orthodox medicines can help but have their own side effects. Aloe Vera has no side effects.
How to apply Aloe Vera cream and jelly
Clean the skin over the affected joint and apply Aloe Vera cream or jelly topically. Gently massage in for 20 seconds and repeat the process. In acutely inflamed joints
effective pain relief can be obtained by applying every hour. In chronic conditions four times a day would be ample. Oral ingestion of Aloe Vera Juice, 25-30 mls three times
a day, will promote faster healing.To deal with conditions that have a longer duration of pain, for example, Osteo Arthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis, it is important to maintain a regular ingestion of Aloe Vera
Juice twice a day. This can vary between 20-50 mls twice a day. It can take up to 2-3 months to produce beneficial effect. It is important to note that compliance is the
essence of success, particularly in conditions that have been on going for 20-30 years. |
