Anti-inflammatory herbs generally work by reducing inflammation and swelling at the site where injury and pain develop. In many instances, anti-inflammatory herbs also provide pain relief comparable to prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS. Most can also be used as either an alternative to prescription drugs or as a complementary treatment to reduce dependence on medications that have harmful side effects. However, anti-inflammatory herbs may also interfere with prescription blood pressure and clotting medications by thinning the blood. For this reason, it is imperative to consult with a health professional before attempting to self-medicate any condition.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn, or Crataegus oxyacantha, is a shrub native to Europe, Asia and North America. It has been used to treat inflammation and heart problems since the first century and has gained in popularity as an alternative medicine in America since the 1990s. Improvements to cardiac function, left ventricular function and overall sense of well-being have been documented in reports by the "American Family Physician" but the safety and effectiveness of long-term use are still unknown. Contraindications exist between hawthorn supplements and prescribed medications in the anti-arrhythmic, anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemic and digoxin drug classes.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw, or Harpagophytum procumbens, is an African plant that has been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders and inflammation due to rheumatoid arthritis for centuries. So far, the Longwood Herbal Task Force states that devil's claw has been reported to benefit those with heart arrhythmias and high blood pressure. However, their findings reported from clinical trials suggest that devil's claw is better suited for pain relief than heart problems. Devil's claw is considered safe for most users, however it should not be taken by heart patients taking anti-arrhythmic drugs.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle, or Urtica dioica, is a shrub native to medieval Europe and prized for its ability to treat pain and remove excess water from the body. It has increased in popularity as an alternative treatment for autoimmune disorders such as arthritis, gout, and eczema. According to Adventist Healthcare, stinging nettle extracts taken daily along with typical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce the dose dependence of these drugs. However, stinging nettle can cause fluid retention in some users that can lead to high blood pressure. Additionally, this herb has a tendency to thin the blood and should not be taken with anti-platelet or anti-coagulant drugs such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin therapy.
Boswellia
Boswellia, or Salai guggal, is an ayurvedic therapy that originates from gum-resin extract harvested from the Boswellia serrata tree in India. In clinical studies, boswellia and combinations that include boswellia have out-performed most other anti-inflammatory herbs in this class. In addition to treating osteoarthritis pain as effectively as the anti-inflammatory drug valdecoxib, Providence Health notes boswellia may even benefit those with asthma, ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. To date, there are no known contraindications listed between boswellia and prescribed heart medications and no documented cardiac events resulting from its use. However, those taking prescription medications are strongly encouraged to consult with a physician before taking any supplement.
