Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease caused by an abnormal response by the immune system in reaction to the healthy tissue that lines the joints. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include swelling, stiffness and pain within the joints of the body, which can lead to the joint cartilage degradation. Though not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some natural herbs may be helpful in alleviating symptoms associated with this condition, especially when used in conjunction with prescription medications.
Boswellia
Boswellia (Boswellian serrata) is an herb that, when taken in doses of 400mg to 800mg three times daily, has been show to provide relief of pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects of this herb can include stomach pain, nausea or diarrhea, warns the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Capsaicin
Capsaicin (Capsicum frutescens)---also referred to as cayenne---is the substance that makes hot chili peppers spicy. As a topical cream, capsaicin has been demonstrated to decrease arthritis pain and inflammation by reducing an inflammatory chemical called substance P, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may take up to 7 days of daily capsaicin cream use for you to experience pain relief. Be sure to wash your hands well with vinegar after applying capsaicin cream to avoid spreading capsaicin to other parts of your body.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a vine that grows in tropical regions of Central and South America. This vine, when taken in 20mg doses three times daily, may act to reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Cat's claw is available in capsule or liquid form and can also be made into a tea.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a plant that can be found in southern Africa. When taken in 100mg to 200mg doses up to two times each day, patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be able to reduce inflammatory symptoms associated with this condition. Devil's claw can be taken orally as a tablet, liquid or tea, and is also available as a topical ointment.
Ginger
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a root that is frequently used to treat stomach upset. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, taking up to 2g of ginger each day may decrease inflammatory joint pain. A study cited by the University of Maryland Medical Center found that the extract of ginger inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)---a key enzyme involved in the body's inflammatory immune response. Use of ginger can cause side effects, such as diarrhea, throat or mouth irritation and decreased blood clotting.
Green Tea
Green tea (Camellia sinesis) is prepared from unfermented tea leaves and contains high levels of polyphenols---antioxidants that help decrease inflammation within the body. Rheumatoid arthritis patients who take 250mg to 500mg of green tea extract each day may experience a reduction in joint pain, swelling and inflammation.
