Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms Don't Rule My Aud Life

The Chinese and American Indians have been using plants and oils to successfully treat pain and inflammation for many centuries; why is it that modern science is only just now skimming the surface of this deep well of knowledge? I want to add a few more items to the long list of possible natural remedies for managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Boswellia Boswellia, an Ayurvedic medicine, has been investigated for its effects on arthritis. Boswellia is a genus of trees known for their fragrant resin. A double blind study using boswellia found a beneficial effect on pain and stiffness, as well as improved joint function. It showed no negative effects in this study. The herb has a unique anti-inflammatory action, much like the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). But unlike NSAIDs, long-term use of boswellia is generally considered safe and does not lead to irritation or ulceration of the stomach. It also looks promising as a treatment asthma sufferers. Dosage: Take  400-800 mg of extract in capsules or tablets three times per day. 

Celery seeds help clear uric acid from the joints of gout and arthritis sufferers. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown (metabolism) of substances in food called purines. Most of the uric acid made by your body dissolves in your blood and passes through your kidneys into your urine. However, sometimes your body either produces too much or excretes too little uric acid. People suffering from gout or RA usually have high uric acid levels. Boil 1 tsp. of seeds in 1 cup of water for fifteen minutes, strain and sip.

Dandelion dispels uric acid. Take 3 capsules daily, 1 tbsp. juice or 1 cup tea, twice daily for four to six weeks to reduce the frequency and intensity of pain, and to strengthen the connective tissue. Gives me a new outlook on the weeds in my yard!

Dong quai (female ginseng) is good for relieving fleeting muscle and joint pains, especially if they are worse in damp conditions. Take I tbsp. of dried root juice three times daily. A note of caution: this root is also known to be an anti-coagulant (blood thinner).

Feverfew Feverfew has a long folk history in the treatment of fever, arthritis and migraine. Extracts of feverfew have shown greater activity in inhibiting inflammation and fever than aspirin in experimental studies. Feverfew extracts inhibit the synthesis of many pro-inflammatory compounds at their initial stage of synthesis. Feverfew also decreases the secretion of inflammatory particles from platelets and white blood cells. 

Parsley juice is effective in combating and flushing out uric acid from the tissue, which eases painful limbs and joints. Take 1 tsp. of parsley juice three times daily for six weeks. Wait three weeks before taking again.

Sarsaparilla has anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful for people with rheumatoid arthritis. It’s also thought to be a boost for the immune system. Originally sarsaparilla was used with sassafras, ginger root, and licorice root in the soda fountain at the local pharmacy as a tonic now known as root beer. Unfortunately, today’s root beer manufacturer’s use artificial flavoring, so drinking soda isn’t going to do any good!

Another great anti-inflammatory is fish oil. It contains wonderful levels of omega-3’s (EPA & DHA). The long chain omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are effective, where as the short chain omega-3 fatty acids from nuts, seeds and vegetable oils are not. Doctors recommend taking 3 grams of omega-3’s daily to reduce joint swelling and morning stiffness.

Again, I want to remind you that before starting any new treatment, please discuss it with your doctor.

Please let me know if you’ve had any success with natural remedies for managing rheumatoid arthritis- I’m always looking for input and more information.

Take care~

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