Live Life Team
Rheumatoid arthritis is, as suffers know a disease which inflames synovial joints – and generally speaking becomes more painful with age. Current medical intervention is restricted to the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), since it is inflammation that causes discomfort, and /or Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs DMARDS, which adapt the immune system, but offer nothing in the way of pain relief.
Alternative solutions
Prescribed medications have long term toxic effects on the body, and opiates are never recommended by doctors, who are reluctant to prescribe them because of their addictive, debilitating side effects. So, when the pain gets severe, the only alternative sufferers can turn to are, often ‘complementary and alternative medicines’ (CAM) such as Rheumatoid arthritis herbal treatments.
Herbal medicine has been used successfully for centuries, but it is important to get your doctors go-ahead when considering trying natural herb medication. This is because some the herbal cures might interfere with the functioning of other drugs which a client may be, being prescribed, and where possible you are advised to work with a professional, trained herbalist.
It is recommended that you check that your chosen practitioner is registered under the American herbalists Guild (MCPP): is an associate of the Member college of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (FNIMH): or is a Fellow, or Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (MNIMH)
Herbalists
Use of complementary medicines is a way of life for many people. We are constantly being advised to take vitamin, mineral and dietary supplements to fill in the nutrition gaps which modern diets deny us.
Herbal medicines are not covered as stringently by the US Food and Drug administration (FDA) as pharmaceuticals, so ensure you use a reputable source for herbal medicines, or use a specialist in Rheumatoid arthritis herbal treatments, who is certified in the area of pain management. Your own doctor may be able to advise you on experts in the vicinity who practise professionally.
Effective Anti- inflammatory herb preparations (… and what they do)
There are several herbs which are useful in combating inflammation.
Turmeric, Boswellia serrata. (Frankincense) This can be taken in a pill, or salve form and is known to reduce morning stiffness and grip strength.
Borage seed oil is reported to reduce swelling; joint tenderness and pain.
Tripterygium wilfodii Hook is a Chinese plant, believed to be one of the most effective Rheumatoid arthritis herbal treatments it is reported to reduce morning stiffness and reduce pain.
Capsaicin, (pepper) is a known pain reliever and in its’ vegetable form can be eaten, but is often used in the form of a cream which can be applied directly onto an aching joint. On skin contact it produces a strong burning sensation, so always wash your hands after use, and be careful not to touch your eyes after application.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is supplied as a powder, and has been known to improve grip and provide longer term benefits.
Rheumatoid arthritis herbal treatments can be included in cooking, as part of meals.
