Osteoarthritis is a major health problem in the United States. The Cedars-Sinai Medical Center states that osteoarthritis affects about 20 million Americans. Most people with this condition are over the age of 45. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is more common in women than men. Herbal treatments have long been used for this condition, although you should meet with your physician before taking herbs for your osteoarthritis to review procedures, risks and alternatives.
About Osteoarthritis
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, osteoarthritis becomes more common with age, although younger people may also develop this condition following a joint injury or because of genetic defects in joint cartilage. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthrosis, usually causes pain in the affected joints during or after use, joint discomfort when barometric pressure changes, gnarled-looking joints, and stiffness in your back and neck.
Helpful Herbal Treatments
Osteoarthritis is a condition associated with joint degeneration, loss of cartilage and alteration of your subchondral bone. Botanical medicines you may consider using to help treat your osteoarthritis, include yucca, boswellia and devil's claw. These herbs possess anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic action. Other anti-inflammatory herbs include ginger, feverfew, turmeric and willow bark.
Featured Herb
Feverfew is an herb that is often prescribed to help treat osteoarthritis. It is a European folk remedy that has been used for many years to treat arthritis, fevers and headaches. Feverfew has anti-inflammatory properties and decreases histamine release. Histamine is a substance that triggers your inflammatory response.The dried flowers and leaves of this plant are used in herbal supplements.
Suggestions
To help reduce your osteoarthritis-related pain and other symptoms -- and in addition to taking herbs approved by your health care provider -- consider eating fresh pineapple on a more frequent basis. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain that is helpful for reducing inflammation. Consider also avoiding vegetables that belong to the nightshade family, including peppers, eggplants, tomatoes and white potatoes. Nightshades contain a substance called solanine, to which some individuals -- including many people with osteoarthritis -- are sensitive.
References
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: Osteoarthritis
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases:
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Feverfew
