Natural therapy for rheumatoid arthritis includes eating the right food, exercising and reducing stress. Because no one knows the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis, natural treatments that include eliminating environmental toxins may also be beneficial. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and progression of the disease vary among individuals. Disability can limit activity. A combination of natural therapy and medication may still be necessary. It is always important to discuss natural therapy used for rheumatoid arthritis with your health care provider. Some are proven, while other so-called natural therapies have no proven benefit.
Exercise
Regular activity and exercise are important natural therapies for rheumatoid arthritis. Keeping surround muscle strong can prevent disability and lack of mobility. Exercise and activity naturally reduce pain. Activity controls weight gain that can put undue stress on joints affected by the inflammation and destruction associated with the disease.
Avoid Tobacco
Tobacco may make symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis worse. Eliminating environmental triggers, such as tobacco smoke, first- or second-hand, can help eliminate the severity of symptoms.
Use Compresses and Hot Soaks
Applying compresses, alternating with heat and cold packs, to painful joints can relieve rheumatoid arthritis pain. Soaking in a hot tub of water or a long hot shower can provide natural therapy to ease pain. Joint swelling can be managed with 15- to 20-minute applications of cold compresses, followed by moist heat applications. Joint stiffness can be remedied with warm soaks in the tub or whirlpool.
Consider Mind-Body Therapy
Engage in a mind-body therapy program. Pain perception and improved sleep can result from mind-body therapy that helps reduce stress, providing a natural therapy option for rheumatoid arthritis. Learn to deep breathe to reduce stress and reduce pain.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil supplements can help inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are a natural way to provide the body with anti-inflammatory effects, as is eating plant-based foods rich in omega-3s. Fish should be carefully chosen to avoid mercury and other contaminants. Safe Harbor fish advertise low contamination in their products, and you can find them on the grocery store label. Fish oil and ALA supplements might increase bleeding risk and should be discussed with your doctor. Good to excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids include flaxseed, walnuts, cloves, ground oregano, broccoli, salmon and cabbage.
Curcumin from Turmeric
The University of California, Los Angeles, is currently studying curcumin, derived from turmeric, as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. The study, "Curcumin in Rheumatoid Arthritis--A Cross-Over Pilot Study," is expected to be completed next month. Preliminary trials show that curcumin compares to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, making it potentially useful for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Herbal Treatment
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) shows benefit as a natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. According to a Cochrane review, GLA relieved morning stiffness, pain and joint tenderness in small studies. The results were inconclusive, and larger studies were recommended. GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid found in borage, evening primrose and black currant.
