The best herbs for joint pain

Arthritis is a general term that describes a family of medical conditions characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Herbs and other natural remedies may help relieve joint pain.

Medical treatments, regular exercise, and proper nutrition can also help a person manage their arthritis symptoms.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, the condition affects over 50 million adults and 300,000 children in the United States. Natural remedies, such as herbs and supplements, might be safe, effective treatment options with few significant side effects.

However, research in the field of natural remedies remains limited. Scientific studies often use animal models or cell lines to test plant compounds. Very few clinical trials exist.

That said, the research that does exist shows promising results, and more research will reveal even more vital information for the medical community.

Continue reading this article to discover the six best herbs for arthritis.

1. Borage oil

The seeds of the Borago officinalis plant, or starflower, contain large quantities of an omega-6 fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It also contains linolenic acid, the precursor of GLA.

When the body metabolizes it, GLA converts into a precursor of prostaglandin, an eicosanoid (or signaling molecule) that helps regulate immune responses in the body.

A 2011 systematic review found moderate evidence to suggest that oils containing GLA, such as blackcurrant seed oil, evening primrose oil, and borage seed oil, may relieve pain and improve function in people who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

However, high concentrations of GLA may have a toxic effect on cells. A 2013 study examined the effects of borage oil and GLA on cell cultures.

According to the findings, the authors recommended using borage seed oil instead of GLA because the former protects DNA from oxidative stress.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is a yellow spice and medicinal herb that originated in India. The orange pulp inside the stem contains the potent plant compound curcumin.

One 2018 article cited findings from a number of animal studies and two trials suggesting that curcumin may reduce chronic inflammation due to RA.

However, the body cannot absorb large quantities of curcumin, which can limit its therapeutic application.

That being said, a compound called piperine — which is present in black pepper — can reduce inflammation and improve curcumin absorption, according to one 2018 study.

 Source: Medical News Today