Natural Remedies

Herbal & Vitamin Supplements Shown By Science To Ease Arthritis Symptoms.

- Linda Rath

Medicine is charging into the future. Researchers are learning how to prevent and treat disease by manipulating bacteria in our bodies. They’re using stem cells to repair damaged tissue. And they’re reprogramming the immune system to target tumors. But some scientists are looking back in time, taking a renewed interest in botanicals and other natural compounds, some of which have been around for centuries. They’re trying to establish evidence-based recommendations for doctors and patients seeking a more holistic treatment approach to arthritis and other health problems. Following are vitamin supplements and botanicals that have the best track record for safety and effectiveness in people with arthritis. You’ve probably heard of many of them. Others are new or have new evidence to back them up.

While these supplements may be effective for treating some arthritis symptoms, they are generally not as effective as prescribed medicines. They also can vary considerably in quality, purity and potency. And you may not be able to find the same ones used in research. Be sure to do your homework before you buy. (See “Finding the Best Supplements,” page 57.)

Supplements are not substitutes for doctor-prescribed medications, especially if you have some form of inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout or lupus. Nor can they replace a healthy diet and daily exercise, which are still considered two of the best non-medicinal “tools in the toolbox” for arthritis pain and disability.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about any supplements you are thinking about taking; just because they are “natural” does not mean they’re without side effects or safe to mix with your other medications.

BOSWELLIA SERRATA

(Indian frankincense)

What it is: Bos wellia tree gum resin