Abstract
Joint pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints these days which is affecting individuals across all age groups. Its prevalence has increased steadily due to factors such as sedentary lifestyle, obesity, age, stress, autoimmune diseases and post-infectious inflammatory conditions. It commonly manifests in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, etc. The chronic nature of joint pain often leads to decreased mobility, sleep disturbances, emotional stress and reduced productivity. As chronic joint conditions become more common, the demand for effective pain relief strategies continues to grow. Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) remain the most commonly prescribed and over the counter medications for initial management of joint pain. So learn about this in detail.
Introduction
Joints are structures that connect bones, providing mobility and support. Inflammation or injury to these joints can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced functionality. Inflammation is the body’s protective response to injury or infection but can become harmful when persistent. Inflammatory processes involve immune cells releasing mediators like cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes which increase blood flow and immune activity in the affected joint.
While acute inflammation helps repair tissue but the persistent inflammation causes cartilage degradation, bone erosion and chronic pain. Factors that lead to inflammation and joint pain are degenerative joint disorders, autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, infections, injury, hormonal and lifestyle changes. The treatment includes NSAIDS, analgesics, physiotherapy, vitamin support and in severe cases, joint replacement. However long term use of NSAIDs may cause gastric, cardiac or renal complications thus leading to seek some safer options.
In Ayurveda, joints are known as ‘sandhi’. Joint pain and inflammation are features of sandhigatavata (Vata dosha affecting joints) and are primarily attributed to Vata Dosha aggravation that is often combined with Ama (metabolic toxins) and imbalance of Kapha and Pitta Dosha. Prolonged use of analgesics and NSAIDS can lead to significant adverse effects on the body. Recent studies show a heightened risk of renal damage associated with their long term use. This highlights the importance of identifying and developing safer herbo-mineral alternatives for the effective management of arthritis. Here are some of the herbs that are commonly used for the management:
Herbs Used for Joint Pain and Inflammation
1. Guggul (Commiphora mukul)
It possesses strong anti-inflammatory, deepana (appetizer), pachana (digestive) properties, which collectively help reduce Ama and balance Vata and Kapha doshas. It also helps reduce weight which lowers excess strain on the joints and thus eases discomfort. Additionally, it contains Guggulsterones, volatile oils, α- and β-guggulic acids, etc. which exhibit antimicrobial and analgesic effects that contribute to symptomatic relief in joint pain.
2. Nirgundi (Vitex negundo)
It has a Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) and Katu (pungent) rasa with a warm virya (potency). It is light and dry in nature and is effective for balancing Kapha and pacifying Vata. Its strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions due to nishindine, vitricine and hydrocotylene provide relief in arthritis, nerve pain and back pain.
3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
It has tikta rasa (bitter taste) and ushana virya (warm potency), with light and rough qualities, and contains Curcumin and other curcuminoids that work as potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents helping reduce the underlying pathogenesis and symptoms of joint pain.
4. Dashmool
It is a blend of roots from ten medicinal herbs including Patala, Gambhari, Brihati, Shalparni and others. It provides a potent anti-inflammatory effect and is especially effective in managing Vata Roga.
5. Shallaki (Boswellia serrata)
It helps strengthen the joints, reduce pain, diminish swelling and improve mobility. It pacifies aggravated doshas responsible for joint disorders due to its Vata pacifying properties and presence of monoterpenes, diterpenes, etc.
6. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
It exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties, calming aggravated Vata while nourishing muscle and bone tissues. Its adaptogenic action reduces pain caused by stiffness and continuous stress on joints and muscles.
Commonly Used Formulations
- Rasnasaptaka kashayam
- Yograj guggul
- Maharasnadi kashayam
- Dashmoolarishtam
- Dhanwantara kashayam
- Sahacharadi kashayam
Clinically Tested Products Of Planet Ayurveda For Joint Pain And Inflammation
- Boswellia Curcumin
- Joint Aid Plus
Joint Care Kit - Clinically Tested
Product Description
1. Boswellia Curcumin
It is a capsule formulation consisting of Haridra (Curcuma longa) and Shallaki (Boswellia serrata). It is clinically tested for joint pain and inflammatory conditions. Research shows improvement in joint mobility and reduction in pain. Boswellic acids inhibit 5-lipoxygenase and curcuminoids suppress NF-κB and COX-2 pathways, reducing inflammation. It improves circulation and balances Vata and Pitta Dosha.
Dosage: One capsule twice a day with plain water after meals.
2. Joint Aid Plus
It consists of Nirgundi, Shallaki, Guggul, etc. Studies show that Joint Aid Plus reduces pain, swelling and stiffness in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory activity is due to boswellic acids and guggulsterones, which inhibit leukotriene synthesis and pro-inflammatory cytokines. It balances Vata and Kapha dosha and reduces Ama.
Dosage: 1–2 capsules twice a day with plain water after meals.
Conclusion
Joint pain and inflammation are not merely signs of aging but indicators of underlying conditions requiring timely attention. While NSAIDs offer quick relief, they often suppress symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. Ayurveda considers joint pain as a result of dosha imbalance and impaired Agni. By balancing Vata dosha, improving digestion, and restoring natural equilibrium, Ayurveda provides long-term relief from joint pain and inflammation.
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