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Turmeric and ginger are amazing foods on their own. Each is packed with unique potent compounds that confer health benefits, such as pain relief. In fact, turmeric and ginger make quite the pain-fighting duo.

Both turmeric and ginger have been around for centuries. Over time, they have built up reputations for being super healthy and versatile as both tubers are used today for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Relieve joint pain with turmeric and ginger, a powerful combo

Outside the kitchen, turmeric and ginger are both commonly used as natural medicines throughout Asia. Ginger has its origins in ancient China, where it was used as both a spice and a medicine. It was long considered an herbal remedy for motion sickness, nausea during pregnancy and upset stomach.

Historically, turmeric was grown in south Asia, especially in India where it was used both in cooking and in Ayurvedic medicine. Today, India is the world’s biggest turmeric producer.

What we know as ginger and turmeric are rhizomes, which are stems that grow underground. Both plants grow beautiful flowers above the ground when they are ready to be harvested.

In traditional Chinese medicine, healers used turmeric and ginger to treat painful ailments. Experts now understand that the pain-relieving effects of both tubers come from their potent compounds.

Turmeric owes its analgesic effect to curcumin, its primary active ingredient. Curcumin can treat symptoms of painful inflammatory diseases like arthritis and colitis. Numerous studies have found that curcumin is just as effective as conventional painkillers. And unlike drugs, curcumin doesn’t have side effects.

On the other hand, ginger’s analgesic effect can be attributed to its phenolic compounds, such as gingerols, shogaols and paradols. These compounds also help reduce inflammation, which is implicated in the development and progression of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Other foods and supplements for joint pain

Turmeric and ginger are among the most popular natural remedies for joint pain. But certain foods, herbs and supplements do a good job at relieving pain as well. These include:

• Willow bark – Recent studies have shown that the bark of willow trees can reduce joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
• Fish oil – Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are known for reducing inflammation and joint pain.
• Capsaicin – Capsaicin is the compound in chili peppers that makes them spicy. When applied topically, capsaicin can relieve joint pain associated with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
• Rosehip – Rosehips come from the seed pods of roses. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Green-lipped mussel – Named for its green edges, the green-lipped mussel is a shellfish native to New Zealand. It can reduce inflammation because of its omega-3 fatty acid content.
• Bromelain – Bromelain is an extract derived from pineapple stems. It has been shown to help reduce pain and swelling in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

How to make turmeric and ginger tea for pain relief

You can find turmeric and ginger in most health food stores and groceries either whole or powdered. Powdered turmeric and ginger have a longer shelf life than the whole roots, which should be kept in a dry, dark place.

Turmeric and ginger are staple ingredients for stir-fries, curries and stews. You can also brew them to make tea for joint pain and other painful ailments, such as headaches and period cramps.

Here’s how to make a pain-relieving turmeric and ginger tea:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon organic honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Preparation:

1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan, then add turmeric, ginger and cinnamon.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a glass or mug. Stir in the honey. Let cool and add ice cubes if serving cold.

There are lots of natural remedies for joint pain, such as turmeric and ginger. To treat joint pain fast, whip up a mug of hot turmeric ginger tea.

Sources:

NaturalHealth365.com

MDPI.com

AllRecipes.com