Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder of the immune system, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. The symptoms of this chronic disease include pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of joint function. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may also experience fatigue, fevers and a general sense of not feeling well. Some herbal supplements may help ease symptoms. However, rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease that should be managed by a qualified health care professional.
Thunder God Vine
According to a review published in the journal "Phytotherapy Research," the herb known as thunder god vine may be of benefit in alleviating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Thunder god vine, or Tripterygium wilfordii, has been used for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory tissue swelling. The article states that in several studies that tested thunder god vine in rheumatoid arthritis patients, improvements were seen in joint tenderness, swollen joint count, pain, physical function and grip strength. Like any herb, thunder god vine has the potential to interact with medications and other supplements. Consult a qualified health care specialist about its use.
Rose Hip Powder
A screening of hundreds of dietary plants found that rose hips were the among the richest in antioxidants, according to an study published in the journal "Phytotherapy Research." Investigators from Charité University Medical Centre in Berlin and the University of Copenhagen tested rose hip powder in rheumatoid arthritis patients. In the study, patients were divided into two groups. One group received rose hip powder supplements while the other group received a placebo. The patients who took the rose hip powder demonstrated significant better scores in a disability index that measured the ability to undertake common activities like dressing, arising, eating, walking, reaching and gripping. The authors caution that more research is needed to ascertain whether rose hip powder should be widely used by rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil may be of benefit in addressing the swelling, pain and morning stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis. This oil, extracted from the seeds of a yellow-flowered herb native to North America, is rich in gamma-linolenic acid. Gamma-linolenic acid, abbreviated as GLA, is an omega-6 fatty acid whose role includes regulating metabolism and promoting bone health. GLA obtained through supplements like evening primrose oil is partially converted into a substance that helps control inflammation. Although the evidence is inconclusive, some preliminary studies suggest that evening primrose oil reduces the swelling, pain and morning stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, this herbal supplement is unlikely to arrest the progression of the disease, so joint damage may still occur. Do not use this or any other herbal supplement as a substitute for medications prescribed by your physician.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- "Phytotherapy Research;" Evidence of Effectiveness of Herbal Medicinal Products in the Treatment of Arthritis; M. Cameron et al; December 2009
- "Phytomedicine;" Rose Hip Herbal Remedy in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis; S. Willich et al; February 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gamma-linolenic Acid
