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| - Last Updated on October 10, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating soaked walnuts and garlic in copper water can treat knee pain and prevent surgery. We did the fact check to term this as False.
The Claim
A Facebook video claims that soaking walnuts and garlic in copper water overnight can alleviate even severe knee pain and prevent the need for surgery. The video mentions this as an Ayurvedic remedy from the ancient text Charak Sanhita.
Fact Check
Does copper water hold special healing properties for knee pain?
No, there is no evidence supporting the use of copper water to treat knee pain. Copper has been part of traditional remedies and has antibacterial properties, but research on its effectiveness for knee pain is lacking. Drinking water stored in copper vessels may help maintain copper levels in the body, but that does not equate to curing serious joint issues.
Knee pain usually results from arthritis or injury, both of which require proper medical treatment. The notion that soaking garlic and walnut in copper water could even prevent knee surgery lacks support from modern medical science. People also promote Ayurvedic oil with natural herbs to relieve joint pain or knee pain. But, this may not work for everyone.
Does garlic have benefits for knee pain?
It seems so. Garlic shows potential in several scientific studies. However, this does not mean it can cure severe knee arthritis, as some claims suggest; that is misleading. A 2020 study found that taking 1000 mg of garlic for 12 weeks helped improve joint symptoms in obese women with knee osteoarthritis. Other evidence showed that women who consumed a lot of garlic had lower levels of osteoarthritis and experienced less pain and inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis. A 2018 study also suggested that garlic might reduce pain for overweight or obese women with knee OA by lowering certain inflammatory markers. Another study from 2018 noted that while stiffness improved significantly with garlic, pain and overall knee function did not show a significant difference compared to a placebo. Lastly, a 2021 review highlighted garlic’s health benefits, indicating that it may help reduce pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis.
Can walnuts and garlic soaked overnight cure severe knee pain?
Not really. Walnuts and garlic are nutritious but not miracle cures for knee pain. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have some anti-inflammatory properties. A 2020 review shows that omega-3 fatty acids may help protect against arthritis. Mice fed fish oil developed arthritis later and with less pain than those given vegetable oil. In a special type of mouse that easily gets arthritis, daily omega-3 intake reduced swelling and joint damage. In rats, two types of omega-3, called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), also helped lower arthritis symptoms, with EPA being more effective. Overall, omega-3 fatty acids seem to reduce inflammation, which could help manage arthritis. However, these benefits do not suggest that walnuts can cure severe knee osteoarthritis; there is no evidence for that.
Garlic also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, soaking them overnight in water in a copper pot does not enhance their potential benefits for knee joints.
Does Ayurveda really recommend this remedy for knee pain?
No, this claim is misleading as there is no direct reference to it in the Charak Samhita. Ayurveda promotes balance through diet and natural treatments, but the video’s assertion is not accurate. Ayurvedic treatments for joint pain typically involve herbal formulations, massage, and dietary adjustments, not soaking walnuts and garlic in copper water overnight.
Dr Manan Arora, BAMS, Specialised in Chronic Disorders & Mental Wellness, New Delhi, says, “The walnut and garlic remedy soaked in copper water is not explicitly detailed in the Charak Samhita regarding knee pain. However, both walnuts and garlic are recognised in Ayurveda for their health benefits. Walnuts, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are considered anti-inflammatory and may help reduce joint pain. Garlic, known for its warming properties and ability to improve circulation, can help in relieving inflammation. In Ayurveda, copper is believed to have healing properties, particularly for inflammation and joint health. While the specific combination may not be documented in classical texts, the individual components are valued in Ayurvedic practice for promoting joint health. For effective treatment, it’s best to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can provide personalised recommendations based on your condition.”
Is it possible to cure knee arthritis without surgery?
No, knee arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, cannot be cured without surgery. To add, osteoarthritis does not have a cure, as of now. However, there are ways to manage it without surgical intervention, especially in mild to moderate cases. Lifestyle changes and medications to relieve pain can be effective. Supportive therapies may also help ease daily activities. In severe cases, like grade 3 or 4 arthritis, surgery becomes necessary when other treatments fail, with joint repair or replacement being the only options to improve mobility and reduce symptoms.
Dr Smit Dave, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Sterling and Orthocure Hospitals, Ahmedabad, explains, “In severe knee arthritis, total knee replacement is the only viable option. Oils, creams, gels or home remedies may only offer temporary relief and are not a solution.” Dr Dave warns against trusting random social media claims which suggest creams or gels for knee repair without surgery.
What should be done to manage knee pain effectively?
It is very important to seek medical care or treatment for knee pain. The appropriate treatment varies on the basis of underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, medications, or, in severe cases, surgery.
In addition, self-care practices such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can effectively manage milder symptoms. However, it is important to recognise that suggesting a simple remedy can replace the need for surgery is misleading and potentially harmful.
THIP Media Take
The claim that soaking walnuts and garlic in copper water overnight can cure knee pain without surgery is false. Neither copper water nor soaked walnuts or garlic have been proven to offer significant relief from serious joint conditions. It is important you consult an expert healthcare professional for effective management of knee pain.
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