Natural Arthritis Pain Relief – Angelica or Dong Quai
Angelica root, also known as dong quai in Chinese herbal medicine, has been a common natural arthritis pain relief method since ancient times in both Europe and China. It has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties, which makes angelica a favorite natural arthritis pain relief formula. It is most commonly taken as a tea for natural arthritis pain relief. As a perennial plant, angelica normally grows in moist areas such as ravines and coastal areas. The leaves and rootstock of the angelica plant are the parts which contain medicinal value and are used to make teas and angelica powders.
Angelica provides natural arthritis pain relief when used as part of a regular pain management program. It is recommended that patients seeking natural arthritis pain relief boil a tablespoon of angelica or dong quai in one pint of water. Once the mixture has cooled to room temperature, the tea should be split into three doses throughout the day. For natural arthritis pain relief, drink the daily tea for two to three weeks. After such time, give your body a break for a period of one week to ten days before resuming treatment. This routine can be safely followed as often as needed.
It is necessary to note that patients who use angelica for natural arthritis pain relief should be aware of side effects and interaction with other medications and herbs. The FDA considers angelica and dong quai safe for natural arthritis pain relief. However, as with any medication or supplement, awareness and precautions are important. As a natural arthritis pain relief option, angelica has been known to raise blood pressure, and can increase blood sugars. Patients being treated for hypertension or diabetes should ask their physician before using angelica or dong quai to avoid potential problems.
Angelic taken in conjunction with vasoconstrictors may increase the risk of hypertension. The use of medications containing ephedrine or other vasoconstrictors is not recommended when angelica or dong quai is used for natural arthritis pain relief. Since angelica is used for natural arthritis pain relief, it is not uncommon for users to have prescriptions for corticosteroids from their doctor as well. Angelica is a diuretic, and as such, it may be more prone to cause hypokalemia in patients taking corticosteroids. Therefore, it is advisable to speak to your physician or health care provider before beginning a natural arthritis pain relief routine involving both angelica and corticosteroids to discuss possible side effects.
