Arthritis is an umbrella term used to describe a number of conditions characterized by inflammation of the joints, including lupus, gout and cervical spondylitis. However, the most common forms of the disease are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. There is no cure for arthritis, but a number of drug treatments may help alleviate pain and slow the progression of the disease. Some herbs also have anti-inflammatory effects and may help alleviate pain and swelling. However, evidence to support their use as an arthritis treatment is mixed. Get medical advice before taking herbal supplements.
Examples and Administration
A number of herbs may help alleviate inflammation, including willow bark and ginger. Willow bark contains chemicals that act in a similar way to aspirin, while ginger contains a number of biologically-active compounds that may exert anti-inflammatory effects. The amount of each herb you need to take may depend on your general health, age and the particular type of arthritis you have. For example, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking up to 2g of ginger daily to reduce joint inflammation and pain of rheumatoid arthritis. However, you may require less or more than this for other forms of arthritis. Your doctor may be able to advise you on how much to take.
Effectiveness
The results of a study by B. Schmid et al published in the June 2001 issue of "Phytotherapy Research," found that willow bark was more effective than placebo for relieving osteoarthritis-associated pain. In contrast, the results of a clinical study by C. Biegert et al published in the November 2004 issue of the "Journal of Rheumatology," showed that willow bark was not an efficacious treatment for either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical studies examining the role of ginger in the treatment of arthritis are limited. However, research by T. Therkleson, published in the October 2010 issue of the "Journal of Advanced Nursing," found that applying a ginger compress to affected areas improved joint mobility and increased suppleness.
Side Effects
Ginger is likely safe for most people, but RxList states that it may cause side effects including diarrhea and stomach discomfort.The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center adds that ginger may cause heartburn and dermatitis. Using willow bark for up to 12 weeks is also likely safe, according to RxList, but it may cause a stomach upset and a rash. Do not take this herb if you are allergic to aspirin.
Considerations
Although willow bark and ginger are naturally-occurring substances, this does not mean they are suitable for everyone. Do not use either herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have a bleeding disorder. Avoid ginger if you have diabetes or a heart condition. Willow bark is also contraindicated in a large number of conditions including asthma and liver disease. Both herbs may interact with other drugs that you may be taking. For example, ginger should not be used alongside anti-hypertensive drugs. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to use these herbs.
References
- NHS Choices: Arthritis
- RxList: Willow Bark
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ginger
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- "Phytotherapy Research;" Efficacy and Tolerability of a Standardized Willow Bark Extract in Patients with Osteoarthritis: Randomized Placebo-Controlled, Double Blind Clinical Trial; B. Schmid et al; June 2001
- "Journal of Rheumatology;" Efficacy and Safety of Willow Bark Extract in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results of 2 Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trials; C. Biegert et al; November 2004
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