The rise of natural solutions in joint health

The growth of the complementary medicines industry has opened up a range of natural options that can help manage symptoms for the one in five Australians over the age of 45 living with joint discomfort.

The industry has doubled in size during the last 10 years.

According to Complementary Medicines Australia, it is currently valued at $5.6 billion in Australia and is forecast to grow by another 22 per cent over the next decade.

Products specifically supportive of joint and bone health form the second largest category of products, behind general health.

We are becoming more open as a nation to try out natural options, too.

Over the past year, three-quarters of Australians have used at least one form of complementary medicine - be it vitamins and supplements, aromatherapy products or herbal medicines, such as ayurvedic and Chinese medicines.

Ayurvedic practitioner Rafeena Kidavintavida believes one reason for this is a desire for a holistic approach to health issues.

"People want to know how to support the body to thrive. They can see connections with their lifestyle and health; they want more understanding and holistically addressing the challenge," she says.

For patients with mild joint pain and inflammation who want to address symptoms, there is growing interest in curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, which is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to relieve mild joint pain, pain, and inflammation.

A member of the ginger family with a peppery, spicy aroma and bitter pungent taste, turmeric is an Indian spice that has its roots in Ayurvedic medicine's 5,000-year-old tradition - and has demonstrated evidence-based benefits to supporting joint health.

"Turmeric is one of the most commonly used herbs for decreasing inflammation in traditional Ayurvedic herbal preparations. Curcumin can also help reduce toxins and process free radicals," says Kidavintavida.

Curcumin has not only been shown as a traditional ayurvedic medicine to relieve and reduce mild joint pain thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but it also provides support for cognitive function including learning, memory and attention.

It relieves digestive malaise and maintains health in the liver.

There are many easy and delicious ways to take advantage of the benefits of turmeric - from cooking curry, soup and paella to sprinkling it in latte or tea.

The experts note that it is important to seek advice from a health professional to address your particular concerns and examine the causes and factors of lifestyle that contribute to your health concerns.

Choose Blackmores Curcumin One-A-Day, which is traditionally used to relieve mild joint aches and pains in Ayurvedic medicine.

Read the original article "The rise of natural joint health solutions" at https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/the-rise-of-natural-solutions-in-joint-health-20201216-p56nwp.html