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Herbal Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a painful and sometimes debilitating form of arthritis. People who have psoriasis are at high risk for contracting psoriatic arthritis. The symptoms are painful and swelling joints. It can affect any part of your body, according to Mayo Clinic. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis have flare-ups and periods of remission. Herbal remedies as well as dietary measures can help alleviate many of the painful symptoms. To date there are no cures for either condition.

  1. Alternatives

    • Health professionals generally prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprophen. Many supplements and herbs can be used along with these over-the-counter drugs. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been found helpful for pain relief and stiffness. Fish oil capsules are used to ease the pain with their anti-inflammatory properties.

    Dietary Measures

    • Eating a diet high in anti-inflammatory foods for psoriatic arthritis can ease pain and stiffness. Eat lots of fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines that are high in omega-3 fatty acids and lots of fresh produce and whole grain fibers. Many foods cause allergic reactions, such as dairy products, sugar, soy, eggs, citrus fruits, shellfish, alcohol and caffeine. Try these foods one at a time to see if you have a negative reaction. Night shade vegetables could also create an allergic reaction for arthritic patients, which are potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant and peppers.

    Herbs

    • Black Cohosh is known as a powerful relaxant and can be helpful in the treatment of arthritis. It can also improve the digestive system and increase your appetite. Celery seeds are used as an anti-inflammatory and can reduce swelling. Feverfew has been used to treat painful migraine headaches and will help alleviate some of the painful symptoms. Bogbean is also a treatment used for psoriatic arthritis that stimulates the digestive system. Check with your health professional before taking herbs and supplements to make sure they do not create a reaction with any prescription drugs you may be taking.

    Chinese Herbs

    • Chinese medicine, which is based on the energy flow in the body, includes herbs, meditation, massage and accupuncture. Some of the topical herbs are evening primrose oil, tea tree oil, emu oil and capsaicin, which an ingredient found in cayenne peppers. On the website psoriasis.org some people with psoriatic arthritis who had accupuncture treatments found some pain relief.

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