The word "arthritis" is an umbrella term that describes over 100 separate diseases that damage the joints. The most common type is osteoarthritis, a condition caused by wear and tear on the cartilage within the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, the second most common type, is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder. Joint supplements may help ease arthritis symptoms. Use them under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Herbal Supplements
In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch lists boswellia, cat's claw, cayenne and willow bark as useful joint supplements for arthritis. Boswellia, an Ayurvedic herb, is recommended for its anti-inflammatory effects. Cat's claw is traditionally used by healers from the Amazon rain forest to treat arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. Cayenne, used topically in ointments and creams, contains capsaicin, a substance that inhibits pain sensations. Willow bark contains salicylates, the same ingredient used in aspirin. More research is needed before these herbs can be widely recommended.
Fatty Acid Supplements
Both omega-3 fatty acids and an omega-6 fatty acid known as GLA or gamma-linolenic acid show promise in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. People who eat large amounts of foods abundant in omega-3 fatty acids have lower rates of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, according to the Center. Omega-3 fatty acids are plentiful in fish, but non-fish eaters can get omega-3s by taking fish oil supplements. GLA may help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms including pain, stiffness, and tenderness. However, the use of these supplements is not an adequate substitute for conventional medical advice and treatment.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often combined into a single supplement for arthritis. Both are substances that are found naturally in the human body. The 2006 Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial, a large study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, concluded that glucosamine and chondroitin were no better than an inactive placebo in relieving pain or slowing down the deterioration of cartilage in the knee in most participants. However, a small group of study participants with moderate-to-severe pain experienced significant pain relief with the glucosamine and chondroitin combination. Ask a qualified health care practitioner if this supplement is right for you.
Vitamin Supplements
Grant Cooper, a physician who specializes in treating spine, joint and muscle pain, writes in "The Arthritis Handbook" that vitamins A, E, C and D are necessary for arthritis sufferers. Vitamin A is crucial for the health of the skeletal system. Vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that may help prevent cartilage destruction. Vitamin D works hand-in-hand with calcium to promote healthy bones. Use these vitamins in accordance with package directions.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskelatal and Skin Disorders: Arthritis
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Rheumatoid Arthritis and CAM
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2006
- "The Arthritis Handbook: Improve Your Health and Manage the Pain of Osteoarthritis"; Grant Cooper; 2008
