Using Holistic Homecare to Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis
Holistic remedies can be used to treat most ailments. However, these remedies cannot replace conventional medicine. Everyone’s best bet for treating Ankylosing Spondylitis is through a good rheumatologist and modern prescription medicine. Holistic care is more suited to reducing symptoms.
Turmeric Supplements
The anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric are well-established in both folk and traditional Western medicine. Turmeric is a spice, most often found in curries, but is not “hot” in flavor (unlike chili peppers). Many rheumatologists now recommend that their patients take turmeric supplements daily, although it generally takes 4-8 weeks to reap the benefits. It is essential to start with a lower dose to see how one’s body tolerates it, as it can cause acid reflux and/or diarrhea in some people. Anyone with a turmeric allergy should avoid taking it, as the anti-inflammatory aspects are negated in people with this allergy. Similarly, anyone taking blood thinners should speak with their doctor before beginning any supplements, as turmeric can interact with these medications. Additionally, turmeric is not recommended for pregnant women.
How Turmeric Can Be Used
Turmeric can be used in cooking and taken in pill form. The dose varies depending on how the individual’s body reacts to turmeric and body mass. About 500 mg is a good dose to start with. The capsules should be taken with a snack or meal containing healthy fats, such as avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, or nuts and seeds. It is also important to either consume black pepper with the supplements or find a supplement containing black pepper, as it helps the body to absorb turmeric. If turmeric is well tolerated, the dose can be increased up to 2,500 mg. However, exceeding 2,800 mg daily is not recommended, as doing so can lead to kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
Perhaps one of the most delicious uses for turmeric is golden milk. This is a blend of spices traditionally mixed into dairy or a dairy alternative. Almond milk is an excellent dairy alternative, and the flavor is well-complemented by turmeric. Golden Milk powder can be found on Amazon and in many health foods stores, and it can be mixed with spices at home.
Watch YouTube Video: Golden Milk (Turmeric Milk) | Dairy-free, vegan golden milk recipe. The video below provides a delicious recipe for vegans using turmeric milk.
Dried Hibiscus Flowers
Hibiscus has long been enjoyed as a hot tea or iced brew by cultures worldwide. It is also an essential ingredient in many folk medicines for promoting the normal, healthy function of the immune system. There have not been any modern pharmacological trials investigating the use of hibiscus in regulating autoimmune diseases. However, many people with Ankylosing Spondylitis are willing to try a tasty drink to benefit their health. Some of these (this author included) feel that consuming hibiscus daily correlates with a general improvement in mild symptoms.
Although there are many ways to make hibiscus beverages, the most concentrated concoction is called Agua de Jamaica. It’s popular in Mexico (thought to have originated in Jamaica) and can be found in many authentic Mexican restaurants and food trucks in the US. It is also effortless to make at home. It’s rich in Vitamin C and a beautiful deep red color (be careful, it’s also an efficient fabric dye). It has a fruity citrus flavor and is a bit tart (though it’s excellent with Manuka honey).
How Hibiscus Can Be Used
Dried hibiscus flowers can be purchased in many specialty grocery stores or online in loose form or tea bags. The following recipe is easy and quick. However, to avoid processed sugar (which can aggravate Ankylosing Spondylitis), we recommend substituting manuka honey for the sugar. Honey can be mixed in while the liquid is still warm, allowing it to dissolve. It is best to add honey to suit individual taste preferences.
Manuka Honey
Honey has many medicinal properties, among them reducing inflammation. It has long been used topically for wound care but is also beneficial when ingested. While all raw honey has anti-inflammatory properties, Manuka honey is more potent than other varieties. Many Ankylosing Spondylitis patients report benefits from consuming 1-2 tablespoons per day.
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