Herbal Supplements and Spices for Natural Arthritis Management

Arthritis, an autoimmune condition with no cure, requires treatment focused on survival and improving quality of life. While doctors usually recommend conventional treatments like medication and physical therapy, many people are turning towards herbal supplements and spices. These are natural methods of managing arthritis symptoms.

When considered a long-term situation, pharmacological interventions can become costly and produce unwanted side effects. Therefore, people have been looking for alternative therapies, which include dietary modifications using anti-inflammatory foods. Herbal medications are generally safe and effective in managing arthritis.

However, you must take them under the guidance of a specialist since they may interact with your ongoing medications and other chronic ailments and show minimal to nil side effects.

Let us now discuss the potential benefits of adding herbs and spices to your regimen.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice commonly used in Indian households. It is a part of various Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which have proven effective in improving arthritis symptoms and musculoskeletal disorders. Curcumin is the active ingredient responsible for most of its healing properties.
You can add turmeric with milk to your curries or soups. Turmeric supplements are also available. The Arthritis Foundation suggests taking 500 mg of curcumin extract capsules twice daily, with food, for best results.
Furthermore, you should be aware of the side effects of using turmeric, such as increased blood pressure. We recommend seeing a specialist before starting any supplements.

Ginger

Ginger is a common household herb known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Studies have shown that ginger may help lower arthritis pain and improve joint function. Ginger suppresses inflammatory molecules that cause pain and inflammation. In a study, subjects received either 1500 mg of ginger powder or a placebo for 12 weeks. The results indicated that ginger improved their symptoms to some extent.
Ginger is highly versatile and can be consumed in various ways—add it to your tea, food, pickled slices, dried, or as a supplement. It is the easiest herb to incorporate into your arthritis management plan.
Supplements are suitable for those seeking a more concentrated dose of this natural pain reliever.

Black Pepper

People widely use black pepper to enhance the taste of food. However, did you know it has immense anti-inflammatory benefits that can lower joint pain and stiffness and increase range of motion? This spice can be powdered and added to food and beverages and is also available in supplemental forms for a more concentrated intake.

Boswellia

Boswellia, also known as frankincense, has been used in Ayurvedic medications for centuries. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-arthritic effects. It acts by improving the knee joint gap associated with osteoarthritis. It is available in various forms: oral supplements, placebo, topical application gels, etc.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has powerful antioxidant properties that prevent the damage caused by free radicals. It improves arthritic symptoms and lowers blood glucose and cholesterol levels. In people with cognitive challenges, cinnamon helps improve function.
Add cinnamon to food and beverages, or take it as a supplement.

Evening Primrose Oil

People extract this oil from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. It is a rich source of omega-6 fatty acids, and research suggests it could improve arthritis symptoms.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, has been used for thousands of years to ease pain, lower stress, and reduce inflammation or infections. Studies have shown that it is safe to consume ashwagandha in patients with arthritis, but only under a doctor's guidance.

Willow Bark

Willow bark has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that this herbal supplement improved rheumatic and osteoarthritis pain, back pain and other joint pain within three weeks. Since it may increase the potency of aspirin and NSAIDs, it is advisable to talk to a doctor before using.