Arthritis is a common joint condition characterized by pain, inflammation and swelling. There are several types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms. There is no cure for arthritis, but drugs such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications help alleviate symptoms. Physiotherapy and exercise might also prove beneficial. Cinnamon might have anti-inflammatory effects and in theory might help reduce symptoms. However, scientific evidence showing that cinnamon is an effective treatment for arthritis is lacking.
Properties and Administration
Although cinnamon is primarily used as a flavoring agent in the Western world, it is one of the oldest remedies in traditional Chinese medicine. Available in capsules, tablets and as a loose powder, it is used as a an alternative remedy for host of ailments, including stomach ulcers, the common cold and to stimulate a poor appetite. Mississippi Baptist Health Systems states that typical recommended dosages of ground cinnamon bark are 1 g to 4 g daily. However, this dosage is only intended to be a guideline. Ask your doctor what dosage is likely suitable for you.
Effects on Arthritis
Mississippi Baptist Health Systems notes that cinnamon contains a compound known as hydroxycinnamaldehyde, which exerts anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting nitric oxide production in the body. However, its effects on arthritis have not been evaluated in clinical, animal or laboratory studies.
Safety Considerations
Mississippi Baptist Health Systems states that cinnamon is regarded safe but adds that patients taking blood glucose lowering or blood-thinning medications should use cinnamon cautiously. It might also have effects similar to the hormone estrogen and therefore may be unsuitable for patients with hormone sensitive diseases, for example, breast or ovarian cancer. Consult your doctor before using cinnamon if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and avoid it if you have liver or kidney problems.
Other Herbs
The University of Maryland Medical Center website lists several other herbs that might help reduce inflammation and that are sometimes used to alleviate arthritis symptoms. Turmeric, ginger and willow bark might help reduce joint pain and inflammation, although like cinnamon, they are not proven arthritis treatments. Get medical advice before using any of these herbs, because they may cause side effects or interact with other drugs. For example, all of these herbs may increase the risk of bleeding and are unsuitable for people taking blood-thinning medicines.
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