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Alternative Medicine for Psoriatic Arthritis

In many cases, the skin condition psoriasis can lead to a form of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis. The most common symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis are swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints in addition to the scaly, dry skin that appears with traditional psoriasis. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can range from mild to severe. Just like the skin component of the disease, pain will not be constant, but will present as flare-ups.

  1. Supplements

    • Though the cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, researchers believe it could stem from genetic and environmental causes, according to the Mayo Clinic. While there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, there are numerous medications available to help manage symptoms. However, various alternative and natural remedies exist for those do not want to take or cannot tolerate medicine.

      Studies by the Mayo Clinic have shown that some vitamins and minerals can help quell symptoms. For example, eating certain vegetables that contain the carotenoid beta-cryptoxanthin will result in the body's production of a form of vitamin A, which helps suppress inflammation. Foods that contain a beta-cryptoxanthin include corn, papaya and watermelon. Zinc is another helpful mineral, as it reduces arthritis and aids in overall health. Zinc is found in foods such as liver, shrimp, yogurt and sesame seeds or via dietary supplements. Before beginning any regimen of vitamins or minerals it is important to speak to your doctor about the correct dosage.

    Fish Oil

    • Taking fish oil supplements rich with omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. At the same time, omega-3 acids also improve the efficacy of anti-inflammatory medications. Additional health benefits of fish oil include a reduction in cholesterol which may help cut down your risk of heart disease.

    Glucosamine

    • There has been much debate about the efficacy of the compounds glucosamine and chondroitin and whether they help with arthritis symptoms. However, based on studies conducted by the National Institute of Health, these compounds are effective with repairing cartilage that has been injured by arthritis. Chondroitin and glucosamine are usually sold together as supplements in health food stores. An added benefit of chondroitin is that it is also thought to aid in treating the symptoms associated with psoriasis.

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