For centuries, people with arthritis have looked for remedies for painful, sometimes debilitating joint pain.
Modern medicine has brought some new forms of relief, but unfortunately some of those medications can cause unpleasant, even dangerous side effects when used for a long time. So it’s not surprising that many people still look to natural herbs and supplements as alternative forms of relief. Do they work? The answer is some of them may.
First, a few caveats
Unfortunately, the quality of research around herbal alternatives is not high, so it’s hard to make conclusive recommendations. Also because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regular supplements, you can’t be sure of the quality of the ingredients you’re getting and what the proper dosage should be.
Some herbal medicines may have side effects just as prescription drugs do, and some may interact with drugs you’re already taking. So do some research before you buy and be sure to tell your doctor about anything you’re trying, so you can avoid potential problems.
Herbs that may help
If you’d like to try herbal remedies for joint pain, here are some that have shown promise.
- Borage oil, which comes the starflower (Borago officinalis plant), contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which can help regulate immune responses. Because rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which the immune system has gone awry and is damaging healthy joints, it may be helpful. One review found that GLA oils, such as those found in borage oil, can help reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain.
- Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, the yellow spice often used in Indian cooking, may help control inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis. Combining it with black pepper may help improve absorption of the curcumin.
- Cat’s claw, which comes from a tropical vine, has also been studied, with some evidence that it can help with arthritis pain and inflammation. It should be taken in small quantities and not used by pregnant women.
- Eucalyptus oil, used in a warm bath or inhaled, has antioxidants that may help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It can cause an allergic reaction in some people, so use it with care. Test a small amount on your forearm and wait 48 hours to make sure you don’t have a reaction before applying it elsewhere.
- Boswellia, also known as frankincense, has anti-inflammatory properties. It provided relief to 60%-70% of users, according to a review of several small studies. It comes in cream or tablet form.
- Aloe verahas antioxidant properties that may reduce inflammation, similar to the way nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen do. You can buy aloe vera in an oil form and apply it to the skin.
- Ginger, which also has similar anti-inflammatory properties to ibuprofen, has shown promise for reducing joint swelling in a few studies, so it may be worth a try.
- Green tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties,appeared in at least one study to help with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- SAM-e,or S-adenosylmethionine, may help relieve pain and inflammation and may even stimulate cartilage growth. Some studies have shown it working effectively in patients with osteoarthritis.
- Capsaicin, which can be applied as a cream, gel, or patch, can temporarily relieve joint pain by blocking pain transmission.
- Fish oil has been shown in some studies to reduce pain and stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
For a good comprehensive source of information on alternatives treatments for arthritis, see the Arthritis Foundation supplement guide.
If you’re struggling with arthritis or other pain and need advice on the best treatment options for you, please contact us at Tulsa Pain.
Tulsa Pain is a pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 918-742-7030 or Request An Appointment to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
