Unfortunately Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can’t be cured but it can be managed.
Medical herbalist Gabriella Clarke explores some natural options to help with this condition.
WHAT IS RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting the joints, which causes pain, stiffness and inflammation. Long term, this inflammation can cause damage and destruction to joint tissue, in some cases leading to chronic disability. It typically affects the hands, fingers, feet and wrists although it can affect other joints. It usually occurs after the age of 40, but symptoms may present at a younger age. Women are far more likely to be affected than men.
It is different to osteoarthritis, which has similar symptoms but is caused by wear and tear of the joints. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis so treatment is all about managing the symptoms.
HOW CAN IT BE TREATED?
Typically, a patient with Rheumatoid arthritis will be prescribed anti inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen alongside other medications known as protein pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole) to protect the gut from the damaging effects of anti- inflammatory drugs.
NATURAL AND HERBAL REMEDIES
Many herbs also possess anti-inflammatory actions and are less damaging to the gut lining. Read on for some of the many things that nature has to offer.
DEVIL’S CLAW (Harpagophytum procubens)
Devil’s claw is one of the key herbs indicated for rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have shown that extracts from this herb can block the pathways which cause joint inflammation. It is thought that the key active constituent harpagoside is responsible for this action.
A German study showed that devils claw extract helped to improve pain and inflammation in people suffering from back, neck and shoulder pain. Devil’s claw should not be taken alongside blood thinning drugs such as warfarin. It is also contraindicated for people with gastric or duodenal ulcers.
TURMERIC (Curcuma longa)
This common culinary spice has recently been shown to have fantastic anti-inflammatory effects. It has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a number of complaints where inflammation is a key factor. The main constituent in turmeric is curcumin, which has been shown to block certain enzymes and cytokines that lead to inflammation. It also has a modifying effect on the immune system and may help protect against viral infections. It may also help to treat digestive disorders.
A study carried out in 2012 demonstrated that curcumin was more effective in treating the symptoms of RA than standard medications such as diclofenac. Supplements are now widely available and a modest dose taken regularly in capsule form has been shown to reduce joint inflammation and pain experienced by people with rheumatoid arthritis.
WHITE WILLOW BARK (Salix alba)
The main constituent in this herb is salicin, which is also the constituent from which aspirin is formulated. It works by inhibiting the body’s production of prostaglandins, which are key in the inflammatory response. The result is a reduction in inflammation and reduced pain. It can also reduce fever. People using drug-thinning medications should not use this supplement.
FRANKINCENSE (Boswellia serrate).
Boswellic acids in this plant resin have again been shown to inhibit inflammatory processes in the body leading to a reduction in pain and inflammation. Its superior anti-inflammatory actions make this wonderful herb a valuable remedy in combating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
DIETARY ADVICE
Certain foods can exacerbate the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis. It is advisable to cut out foods from the nightshade family, which includes potatoes, tomatoes, aubergines, bell peppers and chillis. Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits should also be avoided. Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids should be included in the diet in abundance. The best sources are oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and trout. Omega 3’s are also widely available as a supplement.
PROBIOTICS
Some research shows that our natural gut flora can have a huge effect on our immune system. Healthy gut flora may help to play a role in prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis. Anyone suffering from an inflammatory autoimmune disease is advised to take a daily probiotic supplement.
Reducing sugar intake and increasing our intake of fermented foods (such as sauerkraut) and foods from the brassica family (such as cabbage and broccoli) helps to encourage the colonisation of good bacteria in our digestive systems.
