As we age, joint issues become increasingly common. Many older individuals describe their knees as weather forecasters, with discomfort and coldness signaling impending changes in the weather. A trip to the hospital often confirms arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Knees are particularly vulnerable, protected only by a thin layer of skin. Neglecting warmth can lead to susceptibility to cold drafts, especially from air conditioning, allowing chill to penetrate deep into the knee joint. The ancient practice of sitting on the floor involved protecting the knees with the palms, which contain the “Laogong” acupoint associated with the pericardium meridian – a pathway related to the heart and its warming energy.
Prevention is key, and those who feel a constant chill in their knees should prioritize warmth and knee protection to ward off arthritis. Once mobility is compromised by damaged knees, daily life becomes challenging.
For those suffering from arthritic knees, a simple folk remedy has proven effective in over fifty cases, requiring only topical application rather than oral intake. This remedy comes from the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Du Zhichun, whose generous contribution we acknowledge.
The method is straightforward: purchase 50 grams of white mustard seeds and 5 grams of sulfur, grinding them into powder and mixing thoroughly. Place an appropriate amount in a medical bag, boil it until hot, and once cooled to a comfortable temperature, apply the bag to the knee, securing it in place for twelve hours before removing. Repeat daily for about a month, after which the cold and dampness within the knee should be expelled, eliminating the cold and pain.
While this process may be cumbersome, there’s a simpler alternative: mix the powders with alcohol and apply directly to the troubled knee area, securing with medical tape or adhesive pain-relieving patches.
In essence, the goal is to expel the cold and dampness from the knee using the external application of white mustard seeds and sulfur, both known for their potent heat. This combination can address various knee issues, including degenerative joint disease, effusion, and meniscal damage. Some stimulation or burning sensation during application is normal, but if blisters occur, it’s advised to rest for a few days before resuming treatment.