If you have a family history of arthritis, you may be wondering what supplements you should take to help ease the pain and stiffness associated with the condition. A number of natural products have been studied for their potential to relieve symptoms of both osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Borago officinalis, also known as star flower, contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is believed to reduce inflammation. Cayenne pepper is known for its active ingredient, capsaicin, which blocks nerve cells from sending pain messages.
Cat's claw, a plant native to South America, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain, swelling and morning stiffness. Primrose is a wildflower that contains 7 to 10 GLA, the same fatty acid found in borage oil. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish such as herring, mackerel, salmon and tuna, may help prevent chronic inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis pain. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to be anti-inflammatory and may help reduce the swelling and tenderness of RA.
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory effects similar to ibuprofen. Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has traditionally been used as a diuretic to promote digestion and improve heart health. Celery seed has been used for thousands of years to treat all types of conditions, including colds, digestion and arthritis. Quercetin is a plant-based flavonoid with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Rosemary contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. The king of bitters plant has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The god of thunder vine extract may reduce pain and inflammation. White willow bark has been used to treat inflammation for thousands of years and is considered to be the natural source of aspirin.
The Boswellia serrata scrub tree has a long history of medicinal use. The green-lipped mussel contains omega-3 fatty acids that may help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis. The bark of the South American evergreen tree has traditionally been used to treat arthritis, fever and different types of cancer. Chinese foxglove is an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine used to treat conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
Bromelain is an active enzyme found in pineapples with anti-inflammatory effects that can help relieve indigestion and pain. Vitamin D contributes significantly to joint and bone health and helps regulate calcium metabolism in the body. Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties and sedative effects that can be effective in healing sore or irritated skin. These natural products are a better treatment than artificial ones because they don't have the same side effects as medications do. However, supplements aren't drugs so you can't expect them to treat your arthritis permanently.
If you're looking for relief from your symptoms without taking medications, these supplements may be worth considering.
