The two commonest types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteo­arthritis. Arthritis causes inflammation, pain, stiffness and possibly, deformity of the joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis results from damage by the body’s own immune cells. It most often affects the joints in the hands, wrists, feet and arms. It can occur in early childhood, although it generally affects older people. Women are more prone to it than men. The affected joints become inflamed and hot, painful and stiff. Cold compress treatments often help this condition.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis usually results from years of overuse. It eventually causes degeneration of the cartilage inside the joints and causes swelling, pain, stiff­ness, bone shrinkage and creaking and eventually, joint deformity. Heat compress treat­ments help relieve the pain.

Cooling Compress For Arthritis

The following recipe is helpful for rheumatoid arthritis when there is swelling and painful, burning sensation.

• 10 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
• 4 drops juniper essential oil
• 3 drops yarrow essential oil

Blend the essential oils together, and use 6 drops in 600 ml cold water.

Get the essential oils for this recipe from our Essential Oils Shop

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