Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints, degrades through years of "wear and tear." As a result, the bones rub together, causing pain and inflammation. If you suffer from osteoarthritis, your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or COX-2 inhibitors to alleviate pain and swelling. However, severe cases may require surgery to repair damaged joints. Some herbs may help to alleviate pain and inflammation, although there is little clinical evidence to show that they are effective. Get medical advice before using herbs to relieve osteoarthritis symptoms.
Devil's Claw
Devil' s claw may help to relieve pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, an analysis of clinical trial data published in the December 2006 issue of the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" notes that there is no definitive evidence that devil's claw is an effective osteoarthritis treatment. Devil's claw is likely safe for most adults, reports RxList, but it may cause side effects, including loss of appetite, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Use of this herb is contraindicated in numerous conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Check with your doctor whether it safe for you to use devil's claw.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains a compound known as curcumin, which may reduce pain and inflammation, UMMC notes. An article published in the February 2010 issue of "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage" suggests that curcumin may even eventually replace nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Commonly used to flavor foods, turmeric is likely safe for most adults, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. However, long-term use may cause nausea or diarrhea. Do not use turmeric if you suffer from gallbladder disease, as it may make your condition worse.
Cat's Claw
The results of a study published in the September 2001 issue of "Inflammatory Research" show that cat's claw, also known as uncaria tomentosa, may effectively reduce osteoarthritic pain. However, NCCAM states that there is not enough evidence that this herb is an effective treatment for any condition. Do not use this herb if you are pregnant, as it may have abortive properties. Also avoid cat's claw if you have an immune disorder or if you are scheduled to undergo surgery.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Osteoarthritis
- PubMed: Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum Procumbens) as a Treatment for Osteoarthritis: A Review of Efficacy and Safety
- RxList: Devil's Claw
- PubMed: Biological Actions of Curcumin on Articular Chondrocytes
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Turmeric
- PubMed: Efficacy and Safety of Freeze-Dried Cat's Claw in Osteoarthritis of the Knee: Mechanisms of Action of the Species Uncaria Guianensis
Member Comments