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Best 15 Herbs To Beat Arthritis
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6. Turmeric
This spice, which is found in curry powder, is perhaps one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory agents in the world. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which can help to relieve the swelling and pain associated with arthritis. One study conducted with rats showed that curcumin stopped the specific molecular activity that has been linked to the onset of arthritis. Additionally, unlike many pharmaceutical drugs, turmeric not only does not cause liver damage; in fact, turmeric supports healthy liver function.
7. Boswellia
This is a popular anti-inflammatory herb among those who practice alternative medicine. This herb comes from the gum of Boswellia trees, which are found in India. Sometimes called frankincense, this herb works by blocking leukotrienes, which attack healthy joints in autoimmune diseases such as arthritis. Most studies done have only involved animals and not humans. You can buy Boswellia extract in tablets or in creams that are topically applied to the affected joints.
8. Willow Bark
Some research shows that concentrated willow extract can be effective when it comes to reducing the inflammation and pain of arthritis. Frequently consumed as a tea, it is sometimes called the original herbal aspirin. Native Americans have used willow bark for hundreds, perhaps thousands of years as a natural pain reliever. Willow bark contains acetylsalicylic acid, known to us as simply”aspirin.” Since some people are allergic to aspirin, you should consult your physician before using willow bark.
9. Aloe Vera
One of the most common herbs on the planet. Used worldwide for the treatment of minor burns and wounds, aloe vera can also be used topically on sore joints. Some gels sold in health food stores use the entire plant, not simply the gel. Both can provide relief, so try using the gel from freshly cut leaves, then either grind up the entire leaf and try that method, or you can purchase pre-made products.
10. Ginger
One three month study showed that subjects who were given 250mg of ginger extract 4 times each day had considerable reduction in inflammation and knee pain. Another study showed that 28 subjects with rheumatoid arthritis and 18 subjects with osteoarthritis who were given 3 to 7 grams of ginger daily had a 75 percent reduction in their pain and swelling. These effects continued during the entire 2 year study and there were no reported side effects. Ginger can be consumed as a supplement, added to foods, drank as a tea, or even applied as a compress.
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