11 DIY Ways To Use Turmeric For Arthritis Treatment

Arthritis refers to inflammation or pain that commonly affects joints such as those in the fingers, elbows, knees, hips, jaw, and more. It can cause symptoms like swelling, redness, stiffness, joint damage, and even disability. While there's no definitive cure—especially for autoimmune forms like rheumatoid arthritis, where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues—natural remedies can help manage the pain and inflammation.

One such powerful natural remedy is turmeric, a golden spice long used in traditional medicine for its healing properties. The rhizome (underground stem) of turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving effects.

In this article, we explore how turmeric, alone or combined with other natural ingredients, can help relieve arthritis symptoms effectively.

# Turmeric with Warm Milk

Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder into a cup of warm milk. Drink it before bedtime for better sleep and reduced joint pain. Regular consumption can help manage inflammation. This method is backed by research, including the study "Turmeric Extracts Containing Curcuminoids Prevent Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis."

# Turmeric in Water

Boil 1 teaspoon of turmeric in water for 15 minutes to create a curcumin-rich solution (up to 12%). Drink it within 4 hours, as curcumin content decreases significantly after that.

# Turmeric and Ginger Tea

Both turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory benefits. Brew ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder and ½ teaspoon of dried ginger root in boiling water for 20–30 minutes. Sip this herbal tea to relieve joint pain.

# Turmeric and Coconut Oil Paste

Combine 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough coconut oil to form a paste. Apply it to the affected joints, leave it on for a few hours, then gently rub off. Repeat regularly for pain relief.

# Turmeric, Lime, and Saltpeter Paste

Mix 1 teaspoon turmeric powder with a pinch of powdered lime and saltpeter (potassium nitrate) to form a paste. Apply to the painful area and cover with a cheesecloth. Repeat frequently for noticeable relief.

# Simple Turmeric Paste

Simmer ¼ cup of turmeric powder in ½ cup of water over medium heat until it thickens into a paste. Cool and store in the refrigerator. Apply on painful joints and rinse off after some time.

# Turmeric, Coconut Oil, and Egg Yolk Mixture

Blend egg yolks with melted coconut oil and turmeric powder. Emulsify using a hand blender. Consume once or twice daily to relieve arthritis symptoms.

# Turmeric, Lemongrass, Coconut Oil, and Cayenne Pepper Balm

Combine 5 teaspoons each of turmeric powder and cayenne pepper, dried lemongrass, and coconut oil. Heat in an oven at 150°C for 3–5 hours. Strain and store in a glass jar. Apply the oil to inflamed joints for pain relief.

# Turmeric, Fenugreek, and Ginger Blend

Mix 1 teaspoon each of turmeric powder, fenugreek powder, and dried ginger powder with warm water. Drink this mixture twice daily to combat joint inflammation.

# Turmeric and Dimethyl Sulphate Pack

Combine 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder with 1–2 teaspoons of dimethyl sulphate to make a paste. Apply to painful joints, cover with plastic wrap and a heating pad, and leave for 25–30 minutes.

# Turmeric and Lemon Juice Paste

Mix 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and a bit of boiling water to form a paste. Apply to the affected area, let sit for a few minutes, then rinse off. Repeat regularly for healing.