Arthritis Supplements - Are natural remedies effective?

Arthritis supplements promise to offer an alternative treatment for arthritis symptoms, but do these natural remedies actually work? We'll examine this subject closely in this article.

Types of Arthritis

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis or OA, which is often called the "wear and tear" disease because it is the wearing down of the cartilage in the joints that can happen as a person ages, though younger people can also have it. This can cause the joints to become sore, swollen, and less mobile, which becomes a problem.

The second common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, which is different from osteoarthritis in that is an autoimmune disease. However, RA also can cause swollen and painful joints.

Typically osteoarthritis is diagnosed using x-rays where RA is diagnosed using blood tests and x-rays. There are more than a hundred types of arthritis conditions, but normally when someone speaks about arthritis, they are referring to OA or RA. There are many medications available and some have serious side effects, which is why many people treat their illnesses naturally and find relief from nature. One problem that many people have when they set out to treat their arthritis naturally is that their medical doctors are not open to alternative treatment options, so do not be surprised if your physician is not 100 percent supportive of your natural healing decision.

Natural Arthritis Supplements for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Omega 3 Fish Oil

With both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the main symptom is swelling in the joints, which is caused from inflammation. Therefore, one of the best supplements to take to combat the inflammation is omega 3 fish oil.

Fish oils consist of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid), these two together not only help with swollen and inflamed joints, but it can also help to lubricate the joints. It is also very good for the heart and overall health, but you need to make sure you get a source that screens the fish oils for mercury and lead. To avoid fishy burbs, try to find a fish oil that is enteric coated.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

These are both popular arthritis supplements.  Both glucosamine and chondroitin, especially when taken together can control symptoms of inflammation and help to slow down the process of joint damage. The two work well because it is the same molecule that the human joints have, therefore, both can help to rebuild cartilage in the joints. With natural nutritional supplements, the idea is to reduce the inflammation, which in turn reduces the pain and makes the joints more flexible.

Ginger Root

A herbal remedy that works wonders for inflammation is ginger. Moreover, it is very soothing to the intestinal tract. You should look for ginger root extract because it had the main active ingredient standardized, which means you get more of the ginger that helps with inflammation with every dose. Ginger is completely safe and unlike glucosamine and chondroitin or omega 3's, you do not have to be concerned if you have allergies to fish or seafood.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has been studied extensively for rheumatoid arthritis and has shown promise in fighting the disease and helping patients to be more active. Wheatgrass is a complete food and can be taken in the liquid form or dehydrated pill form (best if you can't stand the taste). Some reviews of people with osteoarthritis have also been helped from wheatgrass' natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Cayenne Pepper

When you think of red pepper or cayenne you might think of burning as it is spicy, but it has marvelous medicinal uses, including help for both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can help with inflammation, circulation, and pain that is often the biggest complaint for those suffering from arthritis. Many people assume because cayenne is hot that it would be hard on the digestive tract, but the opposite is true, it can actually heal digestive problems, but it is not recommended to take before bedtime.

Bromelain Enzyme

Within pineapples is a substance known as bromelain, an enzyme that has shown great promise for inflammation in both RA and OA sufferer. Many people use it in combination with other natural herbs to help control their arthritic conditions.

Final Thoughts

While both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis can be painful conditions, you can treat your disease with all natural arthritis supplements. Of course, you will also want to eat more fresh foods and less animal and dairy products to get the best effects from the herbs and supplements. Lastly, add some moderate exercise to your regimen for the best overall results.

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