Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and bones. People with this condition experience pain, stiffness and inflammation when the immune system attacks the membrane that lines the joints, eventually destroying cartilage and bone. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs help to slow its progression and minimize joint damage. The herb ginger has anti-inflammatory effects and may help to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, although scientific evidence proving its effectiveness is limited. Talk to your doctor before using ginger to treat your condition.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Ginger has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. It is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for a variety of conditions, including the common cold, toothache and motion sickness. Ginger also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is sometimes used to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It contains a number of active compounds, including volatile oils, monoterpenes and amino acids, although which of these compounds is responsible for ginger's anti-inflammatory effects is unclear.
Administration
Ginger may be eaten raw or taken as a tea. For convenience, it is also available in capsules and tablets. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that taking 2 g daily, in divided doses, may help to alleviate pain and inflammation. However, up to 4 g daily is commonly used for most conditions, according to Mississippi Baptist Health Systems. Check with your health care provider before taking ginger in these doses.
Scientific Evidence
Few clinical studies have evaluated the role of ginger in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, RxList states that there is not enough evidence to support its use in the treatment of this disease. However, the results of a study carried out in an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis, published in the March 2009 issue of the "Journal of Natural Products," show that ginger helps to inhibit joint swelling and inflammation. The study's authors add that it has significant joint protective effects. Further studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Safety Considerations
Ginger is likely safe for most people, according to RxList. However, some people may experience mild side effects, including diarrhea and heartburn. Its use is contraindicated in diabetes, bleeding disorders and heart conditions. Do not take ginger if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Keep in mind that it may interact with other drugs you are taking, including anticoagulants and medicines for high blood pressure.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ginger
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Ginger
- "Journal of Natural Products"; Comparative Effects of Two Gingerol-Containing Zingiber Officinale Extracts on Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis; J.L. Funk et al.; March 2009
- RxList: Ginger
