★★★★☆
At aged 22, I got diagnosed with osteoarthritis in both hips, sporting-related apparently. I used a number of natural remedies to keep me going (I was in my uni badminton team, and soon to be running a half marathon barefoot, so felt the need to just keep going). Molasses is great for when the inflammation causes a variation on sciatica. Milk of Magnesia and Cod Liver Oil are very good for making the joints supple the day before a match. Heel lifts, although they make you look a bit weird, are great for keeping the blood flowing when the inflammation builds especially whilst running.
But when the inflammation is very intense when in rest, there is no better cure I've found than externally applying stinging nettles to the affected area. My Mum is a herbalist, and told me some years ago about the traditional usage of nettles as a lashing for especially joint problems/muscle injuries. I guess the theory is that the sting from the nettles causes an increase in blood flow to the affected area.
I'd recommend really going to town on the stinging especially if the pain is quite deep, and in my experience it is always rather soothing to experience being stung where the muscles/joint are hurting so much. But importantly, wrap up very warm, or apply a hot water bottle, after stinging!
For some reason this treatment can shock the body into fever if you don't take adequate measures afterwards. Also, expect a bit of itchiness especially the day after! And I would recommend just administering one treatment every day at the most, because of the intensity of the treatment, and to keep using other treatments alongside.
