Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that may affect the whole body, particularly the joints of the hands and feet, wrist, ankles and knees. Some vegetables rich in sulfur, vitamin K and antioxidants and herbs such as cat's claw and white willow may help individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Don't take herbs for arthritis without consulting your doctor.
Vegetables
Foods such as asparagus, garlic and onion, cabbage and broccoli are beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis because they contain an important amount of sulfur. Sulfur is a trace mineral that is needed for the repair of the bone and joint tissues. Green leafy vegetables should be consumed frequently, as they are rich in antioxidants and also supply vitamin K, a vitamin that is important for healthy bones and joints. Rheumatoid sufferers should check for food allergies and avoid those foods accordingly. Allergies trigger inflammation and worsen arthritic symptoms.
Cat's Claw
Small studies in humans found that cat's claw, also called Uncaria tomentosa, may help arthritic patients, however no large trials have been done, according to Arthritis Foundation. A preliminary study by Erich Mur and colleagues published in the "Journal of Rheumatology" concluded that a purified extract of cat's claw is relatively safe and may slightly reduce joint pain in subjects with active rheumatoid arthritis who were also taking conventional drugs. According to the Arhritis Foundation, possible side effects of talking this herb include headache, dizziness and vomiting, and it also may lower blood pressure. It should not be used by individuals who receive anti-hypertensive medication, blood thinners, or drugs that depress the immune system.
White Willow
According to Dr. Paul Berney, MD, author of "Doctor's Guide to Natural Medicine The Complete and Easy-to-Use Natural Health Reference from a Medical Doctor's Perspective, " white willow bark has been utilized for more than 1,000 years as a pain killer. The active ingredient of white willow is salicin, which is also the key ingredient in aspirin and is responsible for decreasing pain and inflammation. Based on an extensive review of clinical research on this herb, the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, indicates that white willow may have antioxidant properties, may help reduce fever, and boost the immune system. The UMMC suggested that white willow may have the same efficacy as aspirin for decreasing pain and inflammation. White willow should not be used by individuals who have an allergy to aspirin or other conditions such as asthma or diabetes. Don't take white willow without your doctor's approval.
Considerations
Since herbs may interact with conventional drugs and other therapies, it is highly recommended to consult a qualified practitioner before taking them.
References
- "The Journal of Rheumatology"; Randomized double blind trial of an extract from the pentacyclic alkaloid-chemotype of uncaria tomentosa for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
- "Arthritis Today": Cat's Claw
- "University of Maryland": Willow Bark
- "Doctor's Guide to Natural Medicine: The Complete and Easy-to-Use Natural Health Reference from a Medical Doctor's Perspective"; Paul Barney, MD; 1998
