Developed in India over 5000 years ago, Ayurveda is a holistic practice designed to help people live healthy and well-balanced lives. Herbal remedies can be part of the Ayurvedic approach to prevent and treat illnesses. Many herbs used in Ayurveda have antioxidant effects, and may help prevent or treat illnesses such as arthritis. Supplements should only be taken under medical supervision.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as a treatment for inflammatory problems including arthritis. Turmeric is an herb native to Asia. A March 2006 study done by the "Journal of Natural Products" found compelling evidence to support further testing of turmeric supplements to help prevent rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers, however, do emphasize that clinical trials have not been documented to verify the safety or efficacy of specific turmeric products.
Ginger
Several herbal remedies for arthritis, including ginger, are listed by a July 2007 study in the "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition." Researches said that ginger has been used for centuries in Indian Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent. Ginger contains five ingredients that prohibit the formation of prostaglandins, which are inflammation producers. A November 1994 study published by "Pharmacology" examined the effect of ginger on severe arthritis in rats. Ginger was given by mouth for 26 days and caused a significant decrease in joint swelling.
Harsingar
Harsingar has been widely used as a treatment for arthritis and sciatica in Indian Ayurveda for thousands of years, according to a July 2007 study in "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition." Three main active ingredients make up the inflammation fighters in this herb. An August 1984 issue of "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" included a study on the effect of Harsingar leaf extract on arthritic rats. The joint swelling in the rats was significantly reduced with the use of the herb, and the acute as well as chronic phases of arthritis improved.
Boswellia
The Ayurvedic herb Boswellia serrata is used as a treatment for arthritis because of its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in July 2008 in "Arthritis Research & Therapy" by scientist Siba Raychaudhuri, M.D et al found significant improvements in arthritis symptoms with the use of a boswellia extract as compared to a placebo. The group that received the highest dosage of the herb showed a greater improvement over the lower-dose group. This herbal supplement has potential as another option for the treatment of arthritis.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ayurveda
- "Journal of Natural Products:" Turmeric Extracts Containing Curcuminoids Prevent Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis; J Funk et al.; March 2006
- "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition:" Indian Herbal Medicines: Possible Potent Therapeutic Agents for Rheumatoid Arthritis; B Rathore et al.; July 2007
- Arthritis Foundation: Herbal Extract Safe and Effective for OA
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology": Study of Anti-inflammatory Activity; RS Saxena, et al.; August 1984
- "Pharmacology:" Suppressive Effects of Eugenol and Ginger Oil on Arthritic Rats; JN Sharma, et al.; November 1994
