Herbal medicine is used to help treat many health problems. Herbs have been used for centuries to combat the inflammation and swelling associated with arthritis. MedlinePlus states that most types of arthritis cause pain and swelling in your joints, or the location where two of your bones come together. Herbal remedies should be used under the supervision of a qualified health care professional. Talk with your doctor before using herbs to treat your arthritis or joint pain.
Arthritis
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases states that arthritis is a painful condition that may occur in conjunction with eye damage, skin problems and other health conditions. There are many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The most common symptom caused by arthritis is joint pain, although other symptoms -- including reduced joint movement, joint swelling, fever, weight loss, breathing difficulties and rash -- may arise too.
Helpful Herbs
Certain herbs are known for their anti-arthritic action, or their ability to reduce joint pain and other symptoms associated with arthritis. Herbs are commonly used to help treat osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. According to Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," certain botanical remedies may be particularly effective in treating osteoarthritis, including yucca, devil's claw, boswellia, pineapple, turmeric and ginger.
A Popular Herb
Yucca, a desert tree that thrives in the southwestern United States, is a popular herb used to help combat arthritis. Not to be confused with yuca, the edible cassava root, yucca belongs to the agave family and has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action and is commonly used to treat arthritis and other chronic inflammatory disorders. The stalk and root of the yucca tree are used in herbal supplements. According to the University of Michigan Health System, yucca may be effective for both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Precautions
Herbs that help treat arthritis can have profound effects on your physiological processes. Herbs contain active ingredients and should be taken with caution. Some herbs have been known to cause unwanted side effects, especially if you are pregnant or have other medical conditions. Before taking herbs, consider visiting a health care professional with extensive knowledge of botanical medicine. A qualified health care professional can tell you about the potential risks and benefits of herbal therapies.
References
- MedlinePlus: Arthritis
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Arthritis
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
- University of Michigan Health System: Yucca
