The term "arthritis" includes a number of diseases that cause pain and inflammation in the joints. Some forms of arthritis are autoimmune disorders, but the most common form, osteoarthritis, is most often associated with aging. It is characterized by the deterioration of cartilage in the joints. Some supplements may ease arthritis pain. Use them as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Herbal Supplements
A review published in the journal "Evidence-Based Alternative and Complementary Medicine" stated that cat's claw, green tea, turmeric, thunder god vine and ginger are commonly used herbal supplements for arthritis. Cat's claw, a Peruvian vine, was shown in a preliminary study to reduce pain associated with activities of daily living in arthritis patients. Green tea is rich in substances called catechins that may prevent arthritis from progressing. Turmeric, known widely as a spice in east Asian cuisine, improved morning stiffness, walking time and inflammation in arthritis patients. Ginger has been employed by Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese herbalists for centuries to treat inflammatory and rheumatic diseases. The authors of the review stated that these herbal supplements may eventually present new options for treating arthritis, but that more rigorous experimentation is needed before they can be widely recommended.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In his book "Arthritis Rx: A Cutting-Edge Program for a Pain-Free Life," physician Vijay Vad recommends that arthritis patients take 2 to 3 g per day of fish oil. Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, substances that are essential to human health. Vad states that omega-3s inhibit the production of inflammatory chemicals known to be harmful to joints. He cites a study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in which a majority of arthritis patients reported decreased joint pain after being treated with omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements are generally safe, but they may interfere with certain medicines. Use them under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vad states that several vitamins and minerals may help decrease inflammation and benefit those with arthritis. They include selenium, folate and vitamins A, C, D and E. Selenium, a trace mineral, is a potent antioxidant. Folate, a B vitamin, is essential for energy production, while vitamin A is required for the health of the immune system. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin D maintains calcium in bones, and vitamin E helps inhibit genes involved in inflammation. These nutrients are all available in high-quality multivitamins. Use them according to package directions.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are substances that are naturally present in and around the cells of cartilage. Often combined into a single formulation, they are used arthritis supplements. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine did a $12.5 million study to determine the effectiveness of these agents. The researchers found that overall, glucosamine and chondroitin were no more effective than an inactive placebo in relieving arthritis pain. However, a subset of participants with moderate-to-severe pain did experience some benefit from the supplements. Consult a qualified health care practitioner about whether glucosamine and chondroitin are appropriate for your arthritis.
References
- MedlinePlus: Arthritis
- "Arthritis Rx: A Cutting-Edge Program for a Pain-Free Life"; Vijay Vad; 2006
- Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Biological Basis for the Use of Botanicals in Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review
- NCCAM: Questions and Answers: NIH Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial Primary Study
