How to Use Cider Vinegar to Treat Arthritis

How to Use Cider Vinegar to Treat Arthritis

Millions of Americans suffer from arthritis, a medical conditions that takes over 150 forms. This painful condition affects the joints in the hands, feet and the rest of the body. The joints get inflamed and stiff, and the condition get worse with age. Patients suffering from arthritis can treat their symptoms with apple cider vinegar or simply cider vinegar. The properties of apple cider vinegar help treat arthritis symptoms such as inflammation and pain.

1. You can use cider vinegar to treat arthritis in a number of ways. For instance, you can take it internally or use it externally by applying it directly to the affected joints.

2. Put two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water and stir. Add two teaspoons of honey and stir until the honey melts and you get a homogenous juice. Drink a glass of the mixture every day, preferably in the mornings. Apple cider vinegar dissolves deposits of uric acid from the joints and releases tension between the joints and the muscles. The treatment proves very effective in patients suffering from rheumatism.

3. Mix one-quarter cup of cider vinegar with one-half cup of water and microwave it. Soak your painful joints in the hot mixture for 10 minutes. You can repeat the procedure a few times a day, depending on how painful your joints are. The cider soak will reduce swelling and inflammation in your joints.

4. Dip an athletic bandage in warm cider vinegar and wrap it around your knee. This helps with swollen joints. Place a dry towel around the bandage to keep in the heat. Take the bandage off after a while and repeat the procedure. You can do this several times a day when you experience trouble with your joints and want to reduce the swelling and stiffness.

5. If cider vinegar proves too acidic for your skin, reduce its acidity by adding one-half teaspoon of baking soda to the mix.

6. Go to a health food store and get organic apple cider vinegar for the best results. You should also use distilled water when you mix it with the cider vinegar, as it comes free of impurities and is healthier for your joints.

7. Use cider vinegar treatment complementary to the medication prescribed by your doctor. You shouldn’t stop taking your medication even if the symptoms get better.

8. Exercise regularly. No matter what treatment you take for your arthritis, if you have a sedentary life your condition will not get better. Make a habit of moving your joints several times a day. Also, exercise for one-half hour every other day and always stretch before starting your physical exercises. Ride your bicycle, take walks in the park and lift light weights.