There are many methods for maintaining healthy joints, and one of them is the use of essential oils. Why not nourish cartilage tissue through the skin, especially if you do this in addition to other comprehensive treatment for arthrosis? Let's consider the main approaches in this direction.
High-quality essential oils are a real storehouse of beneficial components for joints
How essential oils can help
The main goal of any therapy is to ensure blood supply and nutrition to the joint, as well as remove unwanted substances from it, such as insoluble calcium. For this purpose, a variety of methods are practiced, and each of them is combined with the use of essential oils.
Essential oils contain not only aromatic compounds, but also chemical components that are very beneficial for joints. Among the latter are terpenoids and terpenes, hydrocarbons and aldehydes, organic acids, amines, etc. All of them have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and regenerating effects. Entering through the skin by rubbing, they moisturize the joint, which is especially important in conditions of synovial fluid deficiency.
Of course, this is not enough to restore full functionality. A course of intra-articular injections of a synovial fluid substitute, for example Noltrex, is required. However, when combined with it, essential oils can speed up recovery.
What essential oils are considered the most beneficial? Aromatherapist's opinion:
Nutrition for acute rheumatic fever
Nutrition for acute rheumatic fever is based on the characteristics of the course of the disease, its phase, the presence of circulatory disorders, and drug therapy. The characteristics of products recommended for inclusion in the diet of patients with rheumatic fever are given in Table. 1.
General characteristics of the diet for patients with acute rheumatic fever
Acute rheumatic fever is characterized by severe allergic and inflammatory phenomena, in particular in the joints (polyarthritis), and increased body temperature. Metabolic processes are disrupted, especially carbohydrate and water-salt, which, with increased vascular permeability, leads to retention of fluid and sodium in the tissues; a pronounced deficiency of vitamins and microelements is also observed.
The principle of limiting carbohydrates, especially easily absorbed ones, calories, table salt, extractive substances, with a normal amount of proteins and fats is observed. At the same time, the diet is enriched with vitamins C, P, PP, B1 and B2.
Culinary processing. Dishes are prepared without salt, meat and fish are served boiled or slightly stewed, vegetables are well boiled.
The body weight of the diet is 2 kg. The total amount of free liquid is about 1 liter (including the first course). Number of meals - 6 times a day.
Table 1. Foods and dishes recommended for patients with rheumatic fever
| Products | Recommended | Excluded |
| Bread and flour products | White and gray wheat bread, bran, baked without salt, white bread crackers, savory cookies | Fresh bread, butter and puff pastry products |
| Soups | Vegetarian from various cereals and vegetables, fruit, dairy, beetroot, ½ serving | Meat and fish broth, mushroom broth, legume soups |
| Meat and poultry | Lean varieties of beef, veal, chicken, turkey, boiled rabbit and then baked | Fatty meats, duck, goose, smoked meats, canned meat |
| Fish | Navaga, hake, cod, pike, ice and other low-fat varieties, boiled in pieces or chopped | Fatty varieties, salted, smoked fish, canned food, caviar |
| Milk and dairy products | Milk, kefir, yogurt, cottage cheese in its natural form and in dishes. Cream and sour cream limited in dishes | Spicy cheese, sweet cheese |
| Eggs | Steamed and baked protein omelettes. Whole egg ½ pcs. in dishes | Fried eggs |
| Cereals and pasta | Porridges from various cereals, baked puddings, boiled vermicelli | – |
| Vegetables | Carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, beets, cauliflower, boiled potatoes. In raw form - cucumbers, tomatoes, grated carrots. Limited - green peas, white cabbage | Legumes, spinach, sorrel, radish, radishes, mushrooms, salted, pickled, pickled vegetables |
| Fruits, berries, sweets | Sweet ripe fruits and berries, raw and after heat treatment. Dried apricots, apricots, figs, raisins, prunes, watermelon, honey, sugar, jam | Fruits and berries rich in fiber. Chocolate, cakes |
| Beverages | Weak tea and coffee with milk, fruit and vegetable juices, rose hip and black currant decoction | Black coffee, cocoa, carbonated drinks |
| Sauces and spices | Parsley, dill, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, milk sauce (white fat-free flour sauté) | Sauces based on meat, fish, mushroom broth, pepper, mustard, horseradish |
| Snacks | Salads from raw vegetables and fruits, mild cheese and soaked herring - once a week | Fatty, smoked sausages, salted smoked fish, canned food |
| Fats | Butter and ghee, vegetable oils | Lamb, beef, pork, cooking fat for dishes |
| Specialized medical nutrition products | Dry protein composite mixture “Diso®” “Nutrinor” (contains easily digestible protein) | Dry protein composite mixtures that do not meet the requirements of GOST R 53861-2010 “Dietetic (therapeutic and preventive) nutrition products. Dry protein composite mixtures. General technical conditions" |
Energy value and chemical composition. Proteins - 90 g, fats - 70 g, carbohydrates - 200 g, energy value - 1800-2000 kcal, table salt - 4 g. It is necessary to include in the diet and additionally prescribe a sufficient amount of vitamins (ascorbic acid - 150 mg, thiamine and riboflavin - 4 mg, vitamin P - 0.5 mg, nicotinic acid - 20-30 mg/day).
The norms of therapeutic nutrition are applied when following a diet with a physiological amount of protein while reducing the calorie content of the diet (a variant of a diet with reduced calorie content) with the inclusion of specialized food products, mixtures of dry protein composites in a volume of 24 g of the mixture (for example, when using SBCS "Diso®" "Nutrinor" - 9.6 g of protein) as part of a daily set of products.
In table 2 shows a sample diet menu for patients with acute rheumatic fever. The duration of its administration is determined by the duration of the acute phase of the disease. Typically, with modern active antirheumatic treatment, relief of the main disease syndrome (fever, polyarthritis and inflammation in the myocardium) occurs on the 6th–12th day.
Table 2. Sample menu for one day of diet for patients with acute rheumatic fever (1927 kcal)
| Name of dishes | Output, g | Proteins, g | Fats, g | Carbohydrates, g |
| First breakfast | ||||
| Soft-boiled egg | 2 pcs. | 10,0 | 10,8 | 0,5 |
| Rolled porridge | 150 | 4,9 | 6,1 | 21,3 |
| Tea with milk | 200 | 1,4 | 1,8 | 2,3 |
| Lunch | ||||
| Baked apple without sugar | 100 | 0,4 | – | 15,0 |
| Dinner | ||||
| Vegetarian cabbage soup without salt (half portion) | 250 | 1,9 | 6,8 | 10,0 |
| Boiled meat | 55 | 15,9 | 3,2 | – |
| Vermicelli | 125 | 3,8 | 8,2 | 28,2 |
| Fruit jelly | 125 | 0,1 | – | 28,2 |
| Afternoon snack | ||||
| Steamed meatballs | 110 | 17,5 | 7,6 | 10,6 |
| Rose hip decoction | 200 | – | – | – |
| Dinner | ||||
| Boiled fish | 85 | 16,0 | 4,6 | – |
| Cabbage-carrot cutlets | 200 | 6,7 | 16,6 | 25,6 |
| Tea with milk | 200 | 1,4 | 1,8 | 2,3 |
| For the night | ||||
| Kefir | 200 | 5,6 | 7,0 | 9,0 |
| All day | ||||
| White bread | 100 | 7,9 | 1,9 | 52,7 |
| Total | 93,5 | 76,4 | 205,7 | |
In the acute phase of the disease, the diet must contain a sufficient amount of vitamins, since they are directly related to metabolic processes in the body. Ascorbic acid is necessary primarily to compensate for its deficiency in such patients and reduce inflammatory processes in connective tissue.
It is known that vitamin P not only has a positive effect on metabolic processes in the vascular wall, promoting, in particular, the restoration of the vascular endothelium, but also participates in the normalization of protein metabolism, which is significantly impaired in this disease. Pyridoxine is involved in protein metabolism, which leads to an increase in albumin content and a decrease in globulin levels.
The content of riboflavin in the body of the patients in question is, as a rule, reduced. Meanwhile, this vitamin is directly related to redox processes and is involved in the metabolism of amino acids. Therefore, it is necessary to include a sufficient amount of riboflavin in the diet. Naturally, this also applies to other B vitamins. An important source of vitamins of this group is baker's yeast, which can be included in the diet of patients with rheumatism in the form of a yeast drink at the rate of 50 g of pressed baker's yeast per 300 ml of black cracker infusion.
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So, the purpose of the diet for acute rheumatic fever should be determined by its effect on the basic mechanisms of the disease, that is, it should actively have a positive effect on the main regulatory systems of the body, and above all on metabolic processes, promote the activation of immune defense reactions, reduce the increased permeability of connective tissue structures, equalizing the disturbed water-salt balance and optimizing metabolic processes in the heart muscle and vascular wall.
Diet of patients with chronic rheumatic heart disease (CRHD)
Studies have confirmed the leading importance of proteins in a therapeutic diet for chronic disease, the content of which in the diet in the attenuation phase of the rheumatic process and in the inactive phase can be increased to 140 g/day. In accordance with the norms of therapeutic nutrition, when following a diet with a high amount of protein, a specialized food product is included in the patient’s diet: a protein composite dry mixture in a volume of 36 g of the mixture (for example, when using SBCS “Diso®” “Nutrinor” - 14.4 g of protein) in composition of the daily set of products.
An increase in the amount of carbohydrates, especially with a simultaneous decrease in protein content, often contributes to an exacerbation of the rheumatic process. Therefore, the amount of carbohydrates should be limited (250–300 g/day).
To ensure adequate nutrition for patients with CRHD in the inactive phase, it is necessary that, in addition to animal fats, the diet also includes vegetable fats (20–25 g) with a sufficiently high total calorie content. Food must contain the required amount of vitamins, especially water-soluble ones (PP and C).
If the disease relapses, you should return to a more limited diet, especially in relation to table salt, carbohydrates and fluids. During this period, it is advisable to switch to a diet with a high content of potassium salts for 4–6 days (including potatoes, cabbage, dried apricots, rose hips, raisins, prunes). The ratio of potassium to sodium is 8:1.
You should limit the amount of carbohydrates for a long time to 250–300 g/day (especially easily digestible ones - sugar and confectionery). It must be remembered that the granulomatous rheumatic process in connective tissue sometimes lasts for 4–6 months, so the body is in a state of sensitization readiness, and under the influence of pathogenic factors (exacerbation of focal infection, hypothermia, physical and mental stress, etc.) the disease can worsen . That is why even in this phase of the disease there remains an urgent need to adhere to a certain dietary regimen (restriction of carbohydrates).
Dietary recommendations should also be coordinated with drug treatment. Thus, when prescribing glucocorticoids to patients, the diet also includes foods containing large amounts of minerals, especially potassium and calcium. Among products rich in calcium salts, milk and dairy products should be mentioned - cottage cheese, acidophilus milk, koumiss, kefir, yogurt, etc.
Thus, diet therapy for chronic rheumatic heart disease should be carried out taking into account the pathogenetic features of the disease, as well as the phase and stage of the disease, the presence or absence of circulatory disorders.
TOP 10 essential oils that are recommended for arthrosis
In the treatment of arthrosis, arthritis and muscle pain, essential oils based on the following components are most effective:
- basil;
- birch;
- cedar;
- nutmeg;
- juniper;
- chamomile;
- eucalyptus;
- thyme;
- geranium;
- sage.
Choose essential oils that contain no more than 3-4 components
What is the effect of each component
- Lavender, ginger, geranium, mint, rosemary and marjoram are ideal for reducing pain.
- You can relieve inflammation with the help of products that contain oregano, eucalyptus, cloves, cedar, pine and thyme.
- Rubbing and compresses with essential oils containing sage, dill, lemon, cypress and juniper help relieve swelling.
- To enhance blood circulation, you should choose a product with black pepper, garlic, geranium and eucalyptus.
Before using essential oil, do an allergy test
How to use essential oils
There are several ways to use essential oils other than just rubbing. With their help, you can make compresses, they can be used for massage during the period of remission of osteoarthritis. In addition, you can take baths based on them. Of course, you should not expect immediate results from these procedures. However, in combination with other therapy, provided that they are used regularly and there are no allergic reactions, they will give a positive result.
- For compresses - dilute 8 drops of oil in 10 ml of alcohol, and then in 200 ml of hot water.
- For rubbing, 2-3 drops diluted in 10% propolis tincture or 70° alcohol (10 ml) are enough.
- For rubbing – 5 drops of oil are diluted in 10 ml of any vegetable oil.
- For massage - 15 drops of essential oil must be diluted in 30 ml of vegetable or special massage oil, and then heated in a water bath.
- For a general bath - mix 10 drops with a teaspoon of salt (you can use kefir, milk or whey instead to obtain a water-soluble emulsion).
- For a local bath (for example, for feet or hands) – 3-4 drops, also mixed with a spoon of salt, are enough.
Compresses with essential oils are applied only to intact skin.
Top 15 essential oils
Orange essential oil
This common fruit can also be found in oil form. The citrus scent is great for stimulating the senses. The oil energizes and helps you be more productive. The oil also contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain caused by inflammation.
Ginger essential oil
This root spice has long been known to have many health benefits, but its oil can also be used on the skin. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger make it great for sore muscles and relieving muscle spasms. Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis are an indication for the use of ginger oil.
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Frankincense essential oil
An excellent healing essential oil, frankincense oil helps relieve pain throughout the body. Frankincense is believed to work by blocking leukotrienes, substances that cause inflammatory reactions in the body. This essential oil can also act as a mild sedative, making it an excellent stress reliever.
Lavender essential oil
It is known to have many therapeutic properties. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects can be used to relieve muscle and joint pain. Lavender oil can help calm and relax the mind and body. The oil helps dilate blood vessels, eliminating stress, anxiety, fear and tension.
Cayenne pepper essential oil
Relieves muscle pain and throbbing sensations by negating the effects of Compound P (neurotransmitter).
Rosemary essential oil
Derived from a widely used plant, this essential oil has analgesic properties that help relieve arthritis. The oil can even be used to increase energy levels and relieve nervous tension and mental fatigue. It is best used in aromatherapy, but should be avoided during pregnancy.
Chamomile essential oil
This plant is well known for helping you relax and improve much-needed sleep. But it can also be used to relieve pain due to its sedative properties. Chamomile oil works to reduce inflammation. Simply massage the chamomile oil solution onto the desired area to get relief.
Birch essential oil
Reduces discomfort in muscles, joints and bones due to its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiseptic, disinfectant, diuretic and astringent properties.
9.Lemongrass essential oil
Helps improve blood circulation, is great for lowering cholesterol, and also has powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Lemongrass oil is also used to dilate blood vessels, ensuring smooth blood transport.
10.Marjoram essential oil
This essential oil has warming and soothing properties, helping to relieve joint pain and muscle spasms. The oil is also known to have many other benefits, such as helping with high blood pressure, arthritis pain, and indigestion.
Basil essential oil
Basil oil is an antispasmodic that helps relieve muscle tension. It also acts as a decongestant, antiseptic, muscle relaxant and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent remedy for reducing pain caused by inflammation.
12.Gaultheria essential oil
Useful for muscle pain, it is also known to help relieve some kidney problems, nerve pain, throbbing joints and menstrual pain. However, wintergreen is known to cause several side effects when taken orally, such as tinnitus, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
13.Sandalwood essential oil
Effective sandalwood essential oil is beneficial for any type of skin conditions. It is considered antiseptic, helps prevent infection and has calming properties.
Peppermint essential oil
This pleasantly scented oil can help with most forms of pain. This effect makes peppermint oil excellent for relieving joint and muscle pain. Peppermint essential oil is refreshing and uplifting.
15.Eucalyptus essential oil
As this oil is absorbed by the body, the powerful compound eucalyptol acts as a powerful vasodilator, increasing the size of blood vessels. This allows more blood to flow and circulate around the body. This action helps relieve pain when combined with the strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus.
Recipes for essential oil mixtures to relieve arthritis pain:
Bath oil blend
Ingredients:
- 4 drops ginger oil
- 10 drops lavender oil
- 10 drops cypress oil
- 10 ml carrier oil
Massage oil for knees and thighs
Ingredients:
- 15 drops juniper oil
- 15 drops marjoram oil
- 10 drops rosemary oil
- 5 drops black pepper oil
Massage oil for arthritis pain
Ingredients:
- 5 drops eucalyptus oil
- 5 drops ginger oil
- 5 drops mint oil
- 1 tablespoon carrier oil