Herbs & Supplements That Aid with Arthritis

Ginger: Gingerol, (the active ingredient in ginger), has anti inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing symptoms of arthritis. It has also been found to reduce the action of T cells (which can add to systemic inflammation). Best used for Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Turmeric: Turmeric not only has anti inflammatory properties, but anti-cancer, and antibacterial properties as well. It works by blocking inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Best used for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis

Green tea: The polyphenols in the tea are rich in antioxidants, and have been known to suppress the inflammatory immune response common in arthritis

Cinnamon: This herb also has high anti inflammatory properties

Garlic: Not only has garlic got powerful anti inflammatory properties, it also prevents the production of cytokines which is a pro inflammatory substance

Black pepper/Capsaicin: This herb has anti inflammatory properties and is often the active ingredient in gels and creams used in arthritis treatment. Best used for Osteoarthritis, and Rheumatoid arthritis

Willow bark: Also an anti inflammatory herb

Boswellia Serrate (Indian Frankincense): Contains anti inflammatory and analgesic components and may help prevent cartilage loss and slow the autoimmune process. Best used for Osteoarthritis

Avocado-soybean Unsaponifiables: These are a natural vegetable extract made from the oils of avocados and soybeans. This oil works by blocking pro inflammatory chemicals and prevents deterioration of the cells that line the joints. It may also help regenerate normal connective tissue. Best used for Osteoarthritis

Cat’s claw: This herb inhibits the Tumor Necrosis Factor (which is a signalling protein involved in systemic inflammation). Best used for Rheumatoid arthritis

Fish oil tablets: Omega-3 blocks inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins and are converted into anti inflammatory agents called resolvins. Best used for Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Gamma Linolenic Acid: This is an Omega-6 fatty acid that works by being converted into anti inflammatory chemicals. Best used for Rheumatoid arthritis

Borage Seed Oil: This is rich in essential fatty acids that regulate the immune system and ease joint inflammation. Best used for Rheumatoid arthritis

Bromelain: Refers to the enzymes found in pineapples that break down proteins. They are known to decrease the pain and swelling caused by Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Chondroitin Sulphate: A component of human connective tissues found in cartilage and bone, when used as a supplement (made from animal cartilage) it reduces pain and inflammation, as well as joint function, and slows the progression of Osteoarthritis

Devil’s Claw: A herb used traditionally in South Africa, it is known to relieve pain and inflammation, due to the presence of the ingredient Harpagoside, and lower the levels of Uric acid in people suffering from Gout

DHEA: An androgen steroid hormone that is naturally produced by the adrenal glands. When used as a supplement it is used to prevent Lupus flares, and increases the level of DHEA (which is often low in Rheumatoid arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis sufferers). It also helps to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation

DMSO: Used topically as a cream, reduces pain and inflammation, and reduces the build up of excessive protein in the organs caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis. Best used for Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Scleroderma

Evening Primrose: This oil is high in Omega-6 fatty acids (Gamma Linolenic Acids), which help control pain and inflammation. Best used for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Linseed oil: This oil contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, as well as Lignans. The type of Omega-3 fatty acid present is Alpha Linolenic Acid and this is known to lessen pain and inflammation. Best used for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus

Glucosamine: This is the major component of joint cartilage. Supplements are derived from shellfish shells. It is known to slow the deterioration of cartilage, relieves pain, and increases mobility. Best used for Osteoarthritis

MSM: A sulphur compound found in organics such as fruit, vegetables, grains, and animals. As sulphur is required to form connective tissue, it helps to prevent degeneration, and aid in possible reformation of tissue. MSM also decreases pain and inflammation. Best used for Osteoarthritis

Pine bark: This herb contains the antioxidant Procyanidin, and inhibits the pro inflammatory enzymes COX 1 and COX 2. Best used for Osteoarthritis

Rose Hips: This decreases inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro inflammatory enzymes COZ 1 and COX 2

Stinging Nettle: This plant has antimicrobial, antibacterial, analgesic, and anti-ulcer properties and is used to reduce pain and inflammation

Thunder God Vine: The root of a herb used in Chinese medicine, this herb alleviates pain and swelling, and is used to treat many autoimmune diseases due to its ability to suppress the immune system

Eucalyptus: Can be used topically on the joints to treat arthritis pain

Licorice: The component, Glycyrrhizin, inhibits the enzymes that cause inflammation. It also aids the body’s release of cortisol which suppresses the immune system

REFERENCES

Navigation

Contacts

Recent News

What are UTI’s? Urinary Tract Infections

admin September 14, 2022

Do you… Frequently or urgently need to urinate Often only pass small amounts of urine Have Pain or burning sensation when urinating These can be symptoms of urinary tract infections. There

Disclaimer – Our intent is not to diagnosis but to offer information on therapy choices and practitioners. Information on this site is intended general educational purposes only. Any statements made are carefully referenced and any information, products or services discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease or illness. Please consult a healthcare practitioner before making a choice.