Old Wives’ Tales (the fact and the fiction)

Old wives tales are usually thought of as silly, superstitious and useless information passed down through the generations. But the fact is that some “old wives” have actually passed on a lot of very useful knowledge over the years.

Here are some Old Wives Tales about osteoarthritis.

Cod liver oil (TRUE) 

For many years people have sworn that cod liver oil helps with many ailments, including helping with arthritis pain. Scientists at Cardiff University have been studying the effects of cod liver oil and the effect it has on the joints and cartilage. They found that the omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil can help reduce collagen (a protein found especially in the joints) degeneration and inflammation. They found that cod liver oil can actually “switch off” the action of the enzymes that degrade collagen and break down cartilage. The scientists found that taking cod liver oil can actually prevent the development of arthritis, and can reduce symptoms for people already affected by the condition.

You can feel it in your bones (TRUE)

Some arthritis sufferers claim that their joint pain varies with weather conditions. Research from the Poal de Reumatologia in Barcelona found that osteoarthritis and arthritis sufferers have increased joint pain when there was a drop in atmospheric pressure. They also found that low temperatures also increased joint pain.

Cabbage! (TRUE) 

Cabbage used as a poultice is a really effective method that many people swear by. Cabbage has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the inflammation in the joints as well as encouraging circulation. It can also help to draw out infected matter and toxins from the body. It is very useful for helping treat arthritis as well as chest infection, laryngitis, tonsilitis, mastitis, gangrene, sciatica or other nerve pains and skin infections.

Making a Cabbage Poultice

1. Finely chop green cabbage leaves sufficient for the area.
2. Place the cabbage in a blender with just enough water to make a thick paste.
3. Spread the cabbage paste 1 inch thick over a piece of cheesecloth, muslin or a clean tea towel large enough to cover the area.
4. Place the cloth cabbage side down onto the skin over the area to be treated.
5. Cover with a clean, dry cloth then wrap the whole area in a thick towel or flannel.
6. Leave the cabbage poultice in place for 15 to 60 minutes depending on the severity of the condition and the reactions of the person. The area being treated will get red and warm, but no burning should occur. If it becomes uncomfortable, then remove the poultice and wash the area with cool water.
7. During the treatment the person should lie down and rest.
8. After removing the poultice wash the area with tepid water.
9. The cabbage poultice can be repeated two or three times a day as needed. Always ensure you use fresh cabbage each time.

Quick Option

1. Take a large, green cabbage leaf and scour it.
2. Place it directly onto the area to be treated.
3. Place a wet tea towel over the leaf.
4. Cover with clingfilm.
5. Leave on over night.
6. In the morning the swelling should have reduced. (Osteoarthritic knees see the most obvious benefit from this technique).

Cider vinegar and honey (MAYBE) 

Stir one teaspoon each of cider vinegar and honey into a glass of warm water and drink in the morning.

Epsom Salts (MAYBE) 

Dissolve some epsom salts into a nice warm bath to soothe aching joints.

Cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis (FALSE)

Cracking your knuckles may actually help protect you from arthritis. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that that people who said they cracked their knuckles had less osteoarthritis (of the wear and tear variety) than people who didn’t. Cracking works a little like stretching. People who cracked their knuckles had more motion and better function after cracking.

Lettuce and Moonlight (FALSE)

If you wrap yourself in lettuce and bathe in the moonlight it will cure your arthritis.