Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis characterized by the degradation of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the body's joints. Without adequate cartilage, the bones rub against each other causing pain, stiffness and inflammation. If you are suffering from osteoarthritis, your doctor may suggest that you lose any extra weight to take the pressure off your joints and relieve pain. You may also be given anti-inflammatory drugs to help reduce and inflammation. Some herbs, including ginger, may have anti-inflammatory effects and be beneficial. However, evidence to prove ginger is an effective osteoarthritis treatment is limited.
Properties and Administration
Commonly used to flavor foods and drinks, ginger is an aromatic herb that is also used as a traditional herbal remedy for a number of ailments including nausea and diarrhea.The University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, notes that it may also reduce joint pain and inflammation. UMMC suggests taking up to 2g in divided doses daily; however, this is only a guideline. If you to intend to use ginger to help alleviate your symptoms, ask your doctor how much you should use.
Efficacy
An article published in the January 2003 issue of "American Family Physician" notes that ginger may help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis, but adds that evidence to show it can arrest disease progression or repair damaged cartilage is lacking. Research findings published in the Summer 2005 edition of the "Journal of Food Medicine" show that ginger may also inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators, which according to the study's lead author, C.L. Shen, renders it a potentially important treatment for arthritic conditions. However, the study was carried out in an animal model, not in humans with osteoarthritis.
Safety
MedlinePlus notes that ginger is likely safe for most people but it may cause side effects including heartburn, diarrhea and a stomach upset. Do not use this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also avoid this herb if you have diabetes, a heart condition or a bleeding disorder as it may worsen your condition. Ginger may interact with anticoagulants, such as warfarin and aspirin, and diabetes medicines. Get medical advice before using ginger.
Other Herbal Options
UMMC notes that other herbs may also help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, including willow bark and turmeric. Willow bark contains a substance that works in a similar way to aspirin, while turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which according to an article published in the February 2010 issue of "Osteoarthritis Cartilage," may be a safer alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Like ginger, these herbs may cause side effects. Talk to your physician before using them.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Osteoarthritis
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ginger
- PubMed: Alternative Therapies for Traditional Disease States: Osteoarthritis
- PubMed: Comparative Effects of Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) on the Production of Inflammatory Mediators in Normal and Osteoarthrotic Sow Chondrocytes
- MedlinePlus: Ginger
- PubMed: Biological Actions of Curcumin on Articular Chondrocytes
