Natural Supplements for Arthritis Pain

The word "arthritis" is taken from the Greek "arthro," meaning joint, and "itis," meaning inflammation---so the word literally means "joint inflammation." There are many different types of arthritis, with the most common forms being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to the Centers for Disease Control an Prevention (CDC), an estimated 46 million adults in the U.S. have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis. Luckily, there are numerous natural supplements available to alleviate symptoms of arthritis pain.

• Arthritis is painful, but natural supplements may help.

Turmeric

• Turmeric, and most notably its constituent, curcumin, has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the June 14, 2009, issue of "Alternative Medicine Review," showed that curcumin may have therapeutic benefits for arthritis symptoms. It is believed that turmeric supplements can reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness related to many types of arthritis.

Fish Oil

• Fish oil comes from cold water fish and provides an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. In May 2008, the Rheumatic Disease Clinics of North America study showed substantial evidence that fish oil supplements benefit sufferers of rheumatic arthritis thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Consumers of fish oil supplements should be cautious of mercury levels, as consuming too much can have harmful effects on health.

Glucosamine

• Glucosamine sulfate is found in the joints and thought to stimulate cartilage formation. A July 2009 study in the "American Journal of Physiology" showed that glucosamine sulfate has anti-inflammatory effects on chronic arthritis pain. It is often combined with chondroitin, which has similar properties.

Ginger

• Ginger supplements come from the dried or fresh root of the ginger plant. According to a study by the Cytokine Research Laboratory published in the May 2005 "Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences," ginger contains a component, 6-gingerol, that is biologically similar to curcumin and has been shown to contain many similar anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties.

Other Natural Supplements

• There are many other natural supplements being studied that have shown promise for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce arthritis pain. These include flaxseed, SAM-e, DHEA, avocado soybean unsaponifiables and devil's claw, among others. The proper dosage for each supplement should be taken into account and verified with a health professional.

Warnings

• Consult with your doctor before undergoing any supplement therapy for arthritis pain. While natural supplements offer many potential benefits and anti-inflammatory properties, they can also interact with other medications, causing potentially serious problems. Professional medical advice can minimize these risks and lead to better results.