5 Natural Supplements To Treat Arthritis Pain And Symptoms

man with arthritis typing on computer

Arthritis pain can cause extreme discomfort and pain to the affected joints, especially during a bad flare-up.

As winter fast approaches, suffers may find that flare-ups are more common and prolonged.  With age, arthritis pain can often be difficult to manage.

Whilst there are a lot of medications available to treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, sufferers may find that these don’t work as well during the bad flare-ups.

 

5 Natural Remedies to Treat Arthritis

Natural remedies and supplements for arthritis pain are becoming more well known for their effects on pain and symptoms. Arthritis Foundation recommends many of these natural arthritis treatments.

 

 

SAM-e

SAM-e oil

 

SAM-e works to treat arthritis pain.  It also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which is beneficial for arthritis sufferers.

This is a naturally occurring chemical found within the body. After taking the supplement, users report that they felt better in just one week.  Most people will see improvements within a month. SAM-e treats pain and stiffness and works to combat joint swelling. Once these symptoms have eased, it can improve your mobility and help to rebuild cartilage.

SAM-e works closely with B-vitamins within the body.  It is therefore important that you are getting the right amounts of Vitamin B,when taking the supplement.

Boswellia Serrate

Boswellia Serrate

Also known as Indian Frankincense, Boswellia Serrate comes from a gum resin found in the bark of the Boswellia tree in India.

The Boswellic acids, contain strong anti-inflammatory properties that treat arthritis pain. This can help to prevent cartilage loss, and can also inhibit the autoimmune process.

If the severity of your arthritis pain affects your mood and often gets you down, then try Indian Frankincense.  This natural agent  may help to naturally boost your mood levels.

It’s well known that breathing in certain smells can boost your mood and serotonin levels. This is the feel-good chemical in the brain. Research has also suggested that the smell of Boswellia Serrate can help to relieve anxiety and stress.

Incensole Acetate, which is a chemical found in Indian Frankincense, effects the areas of the brain which affects emotions.  This chemical activates nerve circuits which usually respond to medication that treat depression and anxiety.

 

Capsaicin

Capsaicin for arthritis pain

Capsaicin is known to temporarily reduce levels of substance P in the body, which is a pain transmitter.

This healthy agent comes from the heat-producing component within chilli peppers and can be applied either using a topical cream, gel or patch.

Capsaicin activates specific nerve receptors in the body, which can cause heat, stinging and itching sensations to the local area.

Extended activation of these receptors can cause them to lose their ability to function properly and process any pain signals. Capsaicin requires daily use to keep these nerve receptors from working as the should and processing the pain signals.

You can use capsaicin cream up to 4 times a day to treat arthritis pain.   If you have never used it before it is best to perform a small skin patch test.

Apply the cream over the area which is painful, but ensure that you don’t apply too much as it won’t be able to absorb into the skin. Once applied, you will feel a warm or very slight burning sensation. This sensation will lessen after a few days of use and may well go away altogether after long-term use.

 

Turmeric for Arthritis

Turmeric for Arthritis

There is a certain chemical in turmeric which is known to reduce joint pain.  This is why turmeric is a popular natural treatment for arthritis pain.

Curcumin is found within the yellow-coloured powder.  It works to reduce inflammation, pain and stiffness. Curcumin also blocks the cytokines and enzymes which cause inflammation.

It is important to note that turmeric can work as a blood thinner and may cause stomach upset. You should avoid taking turmeric if you are taking blood thinners, are pregnant or are due to have surgery. Turmeric is high in oxalates.  These are compounds that are naturally found in foods, such as rhubarb, spinach and almonds.

If you have, or have previously had, kidney stones, then your healthcare provider may recommend that you reduce or limit your intake of these foods as they can affect kidney stones.

 

ASU (Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables)

ASU is a natural vegetable extract, which is made from one-third of avocado oil and two-thirds of soybean oil. This supplement works to slow the progression of osteoarthritis and block pro-inflammatory chemicals and prevents the further deterioration of synovial cells that line the joints and can even help to regenerate normal connective tissue.

A study carried out by the Arthritis Foundation has found that ASU “significantly reduced the progression” of hip osteoarthritis when compared with those that took a placebo. Another study showed that it can reduce or even eliminate the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

To further protect your health, you must talk to your doctor before taking any health supplements. You should understand the potential side effects that may come from taking the supplements and whether this may have an interaction with the medication you are currently taking. Please, keep in mind that self-care treatments or avoiding your usual standard health care practices can have serious effects or consequences on your health.

 

Author’s Bio:

Natalie Wilson is a freelance health and wellness
writer. She loves researching and writing about new health trends and
topics, as well as keeping up to date with the latest health news. When not
writing, you can find her taking long walks in the countryside with her dog
or browsing her nearest bookstore.

 

 

 

 

 

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