Numerous herbs may help treat ankylosing spondylitis. According to MayoClinic.com, ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic, autoimmune and inflammatory disease that causes pain in the joints of your vertebrae, pelvis and other areas of your body. Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis, thus certain anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic herbs may be beneficial for this condition. Before taking herbs to help treat your ankylosing spondylitis, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Wild Yam
Wild yam is an herb that may be a helpful treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, wild yam, also known as Dioscorea villosa, is a twining and tuberous perennial vine that is native to both North America and China. Wild yam thrives in damp woodlands and thickets. Wild yam has been used to help treat numerous conditions, including inflammation, muscle spasms and asthma. The root of the vine is used medicinally. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that wild yam has both anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. Before taking wild yam to help treat your ankylosing spondylitis, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is another herb that may ease ankylosing spondylitis. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that devil's claw, also known as Harpagophytum procumbens, has been used to treat numerous conditions, including anorexia, inflammation, muscle pain, osteoarthritis and general pain. Devil's claw, which is a shrub native to southern Africa and is a member of the Pedaliaceae family, has a bitter taste. The plant's secondary storage roots are used medicinally. According to Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of the book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," devil's claw is an anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and analgesic herb. Devil's claw has been used to treat lower back pain, which is a common complaint among people with ankylosing spondylitis. Before taking devil's claw to help treat your ankylosing spondylitis, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
White Willow
White willow is an herb that may be effective for easing ankylosing spondylitis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, white willow, also known as Salix alba, is a large tree with rough, gray-colored bark that is native to central and southern Europe. Willow possesses a bitter taste. The bark of the tree is used medicinally to ease pain and reduce inflammation. Tilgner states that white willow is an astringent, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-arthritic. The principle active constituents are thought to be salicin and the salicyl glycosides. Salicin is a substance whose chemical structure is similar to aspirin. The pain-relieving properties of white willow, along with its ability to reduce inflammation and other symptoms associated with arthritis, suggest that this herb may be beneficial for ankylosing spondylitis. Before taking this herb to help treat your ankylosing spondylitis, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
