April It also states that people medicin not use thunder Herbal medicine for joint pain Energy-boosting drinks Herbal medicine for joint pain joinr due to paain risk of congenital mediciine. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions. Physicians trained in the specialty of integrative medicine have the highest level of training and comfort level with dietary supplements, nutrition plans, and lifestyle modification to combine with conventional medicine treatments. Learn about plant oils, heat and cold, assisted devices…. Medically reviewed by Nancy Carteron, M.

Herbal medicine for joint pain -

Always consult with your doctor before starting on any supplement, as some can pose harmful interactions with medications. What follows are 14 herbs and spices worth considering if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

Used in Asian medicine and cuisine for centuries, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. They include the ability to suppress inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes and to synthesize prostaglandins , which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation, according to research published in the journal Arthritis.

In one study , 70 patients with rheumatoid arthritis took either 1, milligrams mg of ginger powder or a placebo for 12 weeks. Results of this research suggested that ginger may improve RA symptoms by affecting the expression of certain genes. Try stir-frying a chicken or veggie dish with chopped fresh ginger, eating fresh pickled ginger, or adding grated ginger to soups or smoothies.

Galina Roofener , a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, agrees that ginger can be a beneficial part of your plan to alleviate joint pain caused by arthritis and recommends working with a trained herbalist.

Find one near you with the directory of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine NCCAOM. A fragrant herb that has high antioxidant capabilities, thyme has a rich history as a food flavoring.

In fact, thyme was found to be the most commonly used herbal medicine among people with RA, according to a study. A sprig of fresh thyme can be a flavorful addition to meat, poultry, bean, tomato, or egg dishes, as well as soups and stews.

A review published in of 51 studies found curcumin the active ingredient that gives turmeric its yellow color to have anti-inflammatory effects on RA. Want to try turmeric? Add it to soups, stews, and curry dishes. Helpful hint: Combining turmeric with black pepper helps your body absorb the yellow spice even better, according to research.

For optimal absorption, it is best taken with food. Remember to consult with your doctor before starting on turmeric. Roofener cautions that because turmeric has blood-thinning properties, it should be avoided in large doses if you take a blood-thinning medicine.

Consumed in Asia for millennia, green tea contains polyphenols, which are antioxidant-rich substances that can help reduce inflammation, protect joints, and trigger changes in immune responses that would ease the severity of arthritis. Research on arthritis-induced rats compared the effects of green tea and black tea on arthritis and found that green tea extract had superior anti-inflammatory effects.

So treat yourself to a daily tea break with a cup of hot green tea, iced green tea, or even a cup of matcha, using a powder made from ground green tea leaves. Related: Can Drinking Tea Help Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms? A delicious spice, cinnamon has powerful antioxidant properties that help inhibit cell damage from free radicals.

Another study also found that supplementation with cinnamon lessened C-reactive protein levels and other biomarkers for inflammation and oxidative stress, which occur in people with RA. The authors of this research concluded that cinnamon supplementation may enhance the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress levels in humans.

Related: Cinnamon May Be a Safe Way to Reduce RA Symptoms. Dried cinnamon can be added to oatmeal , smoothies, soups, stews, or even oranges for a delicious and healthy dessert.

Cinnamon sticks can be added to teas or ciders for an extra flavor infusion. Sliced, minced, or chopped, fresh garlic can liven up any dish and may help ease rheumatoid arthritis pain. Like leeks and onions, garlic contains diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that decreases the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Research has found that the administration of garlic has anti-arthritic activity — preventing cartilage destruction and reducing inflammation — in arthritis-induced rats. In one study , 70 women were randomly assigned to take either mg of garlic powder tablets twice a day or a placebo for eight weeks.

At the end of the study period, those who took the garlic reported significantly lower pain intensity and fatigue scores. They also had lower levels of C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor TNF , which are proteins involved in inflammation. Related: Pain Management in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Garlic can be added to many foods, including pasta dishes, roasted chicken or vegetables, stir-fries, and sandwich spreads. But did you know that black pepper, including piperine, its active compound, has bona fide health benefits?

Research has found that black pepper has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and gastro-protective effects. One study suggested that the administration of piperic acid has anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting swelling and the production of cytokines in animals.

Other research has found that piperine administration relieved inflammation, pain, and other symptoms of arthritis in animals. Related: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Your Diet: What to Consider. Cayenne and other chili peppers contain capsaicinoids, which are natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Many ointments and creams containing capsaicin the main ingredient in cayenne are available to relieve arthritis pain. One study found that capsaicin cream was just as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs at reducing pain for people with osteoarthritis.

You can add cayenne pepper to sauces, marinades, and rubs. Or simply sprinkle dried cayenne onto your favorite dish. But beware: This spice can be hot and may irritate the digestive tract. Cayenne may interact with different medicines, so be sure to talk to your doctor before trying this supplement.

Willow bark has significant anti-inflammatory properties and reduces various markers of inflammation, according to research. In one study , researchers gave willow bark extract to people with rheumatic pain due to osteoarthritis and back pain and saw a significant reduction in pain after three weeks.

Roofener stresses that you should consult with your doctor before taking willow bark, as it may increase the action of aspirin or an NSAID. Derived from the bark of the Boswellia tree, found in India and North Africa, Indian frankincense has strong anti-inflammatory properties as well as analgesic effects.

It also may help prevent cartilage loss. Technically, this substance is a seafood extract not an herb that is touted for inflammation-fighting properties.

Nutritional supplements containing extracts from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel Perna canaliculus are rich in omega-3 fatty acids , which have anti-inflammatory effects. So it stands to reason that these supplements could be helpful for RA; however, little research has been done in people, and so far results from studies in animals and humans have been mixed, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

This information is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition. Herbal Remedies For over 5, years, herbs have been used for their medicinal properties.

Herbal Remedies and Supplements for Arthritis Osteoarthritis is a degenerative arthritis caused by wear and tear of the joints. Acupuncture for Arthritis Developed in Asia over 2, years ago, acupuncture is a treatment modality consisting of needles which are inserted into the skin at specific points along meridians or channels which are deemed to be associated with various organ and bodily functions.

For More Information In conclusion, many herbal remedies and supplements are available on the market to manage pain. We use cookies on our website to improve our service to you and for security purposes.

By continuing to use our site without changing your browser cookie settings, you agree to our cookie policy and the use of cookies. See ACR Policies. Learn about diet, exercise, and…. Some natural remedies may be able to ease your psoriatic arthritis joint pain.

Turmeric, acupuncture, and vitamin D are just three of many you can try…. Learn about five rheumatoid arthritis back pain treatments that can ease your pain in the short term and help manage it in the long run. Read about the specific psoriatic arthritis medication that may work for you, and learn about other helpful methods, such as acupuncture and exercise.

Psoriatic arthritis produces joint pain and stiffness and causes scaly red patches to form on your skin. The on-and-off nature of symptom flares can…. Looking for a natural way to relieve your arthritis symptoms?

Look no further. Here are several Ayurvedic treatments for pain, swelling, and…. Check out this guide to anti-inflammatory herbs, vitamins, and supplements for rheumatoid arthritis. Find out what works and what doesn't. There may not be a cure for RA, but there are several things you can do to ease flare-ups.

Learn about plant oils, heat and cold, assisted devices…. Antibiotics are lifesaving medications, but they may also pose problems with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Basics Pain Management Living with RA Mental Health Community Newsletter. Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D. Aloe vera Boswellia Cat's Claw Eucalyptus Ginger Green Tea Thunder God Vine Turmeric Willow Bark Other options Ask a Doctor Takeaway Herbal remedies for arthritis pain.

Aloe vera. How to peel ginger. Green tea. Thunder god vine. Willow bark. Other complementary options. Ask a doctor about complementary medicine. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.

We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Nov 15, Written By Kristeen Cherney, PhD. Medically Reviewed By Kerry Boyle D.

Jun 1, Written By Kristeen Cherney, PhD. Medically Reviewed By Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Share this article. related stories How to Treat Psoriatic Arthritis at Home. Psoriatic Arthritis Medication: Pain Relief and Natural Alternatives.

Read this next. How to Treat Psoriatic Arthritis at Home. Medically reviewed by Nancy Carteron, M.

Lost password? Recover medicne. Remembered your password? Back to login. Any discomfort, pain, or soreness in a joint of the body is referred to as joint pain. A frequent complaint is a joint discomfort.

Herbal medicine for joint pain -

Related: Can Drinking Tea Help Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms? A delicious spice, cinnamon has powerful antioxidant properties that help inhibit cell damage from free radicals.

Another study also found that supplementation with cinnamon lessened C-reactive protein levels and other biomarkers for inflammation and oxidative stress, which occur in people with RA.

The authors of this research concluded that cinnamon supplementation may enhance the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress levels in humans. Related: Cinnamon May Be a Safe Way to Reduce RA Symptoms. Dried cinnamon can be added to oatmeal , smoothies, soups, stews, or even oranges for a delicious and healthy dessert.

Cinnamon sticks can be added to teas or ciders for an extra flavor infusion. Sliced, minced, or chopped, fresh garlic can liven up any dish and may help ease rheumatoid arthritis pain.

Like leeks and onions, garlic contains diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that decreases the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Research has found that the administration of garlic has anti-arthritic activity — preventing cartilage destruction and reducing inflammation — in arthritis-induced rats.

In one study , 70 women were randomly assigned to take either mg of garlic powder tablets twice a day or a placebo for eight weeks. At the end of the study period, those who took the garlic reported significantly lower pain intensity and fatigue scores.

They also had lower levels of C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor TNF , which are proteins involved in inflammation. Related: Pain Management in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Garlic can be added to many foods, including pasta dishes, roasted chicken or vegetables, stir-fries, and sandwich spreads. But did you know that black pepper, including piperine, its active compound, has bona fide health benefits?

Research has found that black pepper has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and gastro-protective effects. One study suggested that the administration of piperic acid has anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting swelling and the production of cytokines in animals. Other research has found that piperine administration relieved inflammation, pain, and other symptoms of arthritis in animals.

Related: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Your Diet: What to Consider. Cayenne and other chili peppers contain capsaicinoids, which are natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Many ointments and creams containing capsaicin the main ingredient in cayenne are available to relieve arthritis pain.

One study found that capsaicin cream was just as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs at reducing pain for people with osteoarthritis. You can add cayenne pepper to sauces, marinades, and rubs.

Or simply sprinkle dried cayenne onto your favorite dish. But beware: This spice can be hot and may irritate the digestive tract. Cayenne may interact with different medicines, so be sure to talk to your doctor before trying this supplement. Willow bark has significant anti-inflammatory properties and reduces various markers of inflammation, according to research.

In one study , researchers gave willow bark extract to people with rheumatic pain due to osteoarthritis and back pain and saw a significant reduction in pain after three weeks.

Roofener stresses that you should consult with your doctor before taking willow bark, as it may increase the action of aspirin or an NSAID.

Derived from the bark of the Boswellia tree, found in India and North Africa, Indian frankincense has strong anti-inflammatory properties as well as analgesic effects.

It also may help prevent cartilage loss. Technically, this substance is a seafood extract not an herb that is touted for inflammation-fighting properties.

Nutritional supplements containing extracts from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel Perna canaliculus are rich in omega-3 fatty acids , which have anti-inflammatory effects.

So it stands to reason that these supplements could be helpful for RA; however, little research has been done in people, and so far results from studies in animals and humans have been mixed, according to the Arthritis Foundation. The oil comes from the seeds of the evening primrose plant, which is native to certain parts of North and South America.

Research has suggested that evening primrose oil could reduce symptoms of RA, but the results were inconsistent. If you are interested in trying evening primrose supplements, the Arthritis Foundation suggests a dosage of 2. Related: Home Remedies and Alternative Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Used for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese medicine, thunder god vine reduces inflammation from autoimmune diseases, including RA, when taken as an oral extract. One review found that treatment with thunder god vine aka Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F was superior to conventional drugs, including sulfasalazine Azulfidine and methotrexate Trexall , in treating RA symptoms.

However, thunder god vine should never be used as a substitute for standard RA treatments. Research has found that taking ashwagandha powder followed by treatment with Sidh Makardhwaj another type of Indian medicine with herbal and mineral ingredients eases pain and joint swelling in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

The dosage will depend on the type you take. Alschuler says ashwagandha is generally safe for people with RA. However, patients should consult with their doctors if they are taking diabetes or thyroid medicines, as the supplement could cause an additive effect.

Additionally, pregnant women should talk to their providers before taking ashwagandha. To keep it that way, she advises using herbs or supplements at least two hours before or after taking your medication.

If you want to use them in high doses as medicine, make sure to check with your doctor first, she adds, or work with a Board Certified Traditional Chinese Herbalist. After all, some herbal supplements can cause unpleasant side effects or interact with medication you may be taking. Additional reporting by Julie Marks , Madeline Vann, MPH , and Stacey Colino.

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

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Medically Reviewed. Beth Biggee, MD of American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Some flavorful, aromatic spices also have anti-inflammatory properties, while certain medicinal herbs may help RA symptoms. Related: The Best Foods to Add to Your Diet to Fight Rheumatoid Arthritis In addition, some medicinal herbs can help you manage or even minimize uncomfortable symptoms.

Culinary Herbs and Spices for an Anti-Inflammatory, RA-Friendly Diet. Related: Cinnamon May Be a Safe Way to Reduce RA Symptoms Dried cinnamon can be added to oatmeal , smoothies, soups, stews, or even oranges for a delicious and healthy dessert. Related: Pain Management in Rheumatoid Arthritis Garlic can be added to many foods, including pasta dishes, roasted chicken or vegetables, stir-fries, and sandwich spreads.

Medicinal Herbs for an Anti-Inflammatory, RA-Friendly Diet. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Resources Best Spices for Arthritis. Arthritis Foundation. Al-Nahain A et al. Zingiber Officinale: A Potential Plant Against Rheumatoid Arthritis. Aryaeian N et al.

The Effect of Ginger Supplementation on Some Immunity and Inflammation Intermediate Genes Expression in Patients With Active Rheumatoid Arthritis. May 25, Maen A et al.

Inhibitory Activity of Australian Culinary Herb Extracts Against the Bacterial Triggers of Selected Autoimmune Diseases [PDF].

Pharmacognosy Communications. April—June Rambod M et al. The Prevalence and Predictors of Herbal Medicines Usage Among Adult Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Case-Control Study. This substance can cause a mild burning or tingling sensation when a person applies it topically.

Ginger , or Zingiber officinale , is a root that shows promise as a natural pain reliever. A study found that ginger powder was as effective as ibuprofen in controlling postoperative pain.

An earlier systematic review also found that ingesting 2 grams of ginger per day modestly reduced muscle pain from resistance exercise and running when people took it for at least 5 days.

The researchers also suggest that ginger may accelerate recovery and reduce inflammation related to exercise. A person could try including ginger in the diet by using supplements or adding it in raw form to smoothies. However, the natural, fresh ingredient may be more healthy.

Always talk with a qualified healthcare professional before taking any new supplement. Dietary supplements can have side effects and may interact with existing medication. Traditional uses include treating fever , migraine headaches , rheumatoid arthritis , toothaches , and stomach aches, as well as increasing breast milk.

Feverfew contains compounds that may reduce inflammation and muscle spasms. Some researchers believe that the key active compounds include sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids. The American Migraine Foundation states that there are mixed results about how effective feverfew is, but that it is probably helpful for preventing migraine headaches.

A study concludes that feverfew may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. Feverfew can cause side effects such as nausea, digestive problems, and bloating.

So, it is important to talk with a qualified healthcare professional before trying feverfew. Curcuma, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric , has pain-relieving qualities. A review claims that curcumin shows a reduction in pain similar to that of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs.

However, researchers recommend turmeric as a safe adjunction to NSAID therapy rather than in place of it. Turmeric is also a common herbal remedy for reducing inflammation.

To include turmeric in its natural form in the diet, a person could try adding it to curries, smoothies, or juices. Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that advocates believe can help reduce pain. Recent research supports these beliefs. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH states that acupuncture can help with certain types of pain, including:.

It may also reduce how frequently people get tension headaches and could help prevent migraine headaches. A meta-analysis found that acupuncture is an effective way to manage chronic pain. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could help with musculoskeletal pain, headache, and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

More research into the effects of acupuncture for other pain conditions is now needed, but increasing evidence is suggesting that acupuncture is effective for many types of pain. In fact, acupuncture may help in more than different conditions.

Yoga is a physical meditation practice that may offer a way to manage pain naturally. Managing back pain often includes stretching and physical therapy. Yoga provides this. It incorporates breathing exercises , self-care, and relaxation methods, so practicing yoga may also relieve pain related to stress or anxiety.

A study found that 12 weeks of yoga helped to significantly reduce lower back pain. The NCCIH states that yoga may help relieve lower back pain and neck pain, but that there is not enough evidence that it can help for other conditions, such as headache, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

People experiencing chronic pain are increasingly turning to mindfulness meditation as a natural treatment. More research is needed, but initial studies are promising.

A systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 38 studies and eventually concluded that mindfulness meditation can improve pain symptoms, depression, and quality of life. However, the authors say that larger studies are needed to see exactly how effective it is.

Essential oils, such as lavender oil and peppermint oil, may relieve pain naturally. This is also the case for certain herbs such as clove and feverfew. Acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness meditation are thought to be natural pain relievers too. Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and heat and cold treatment can be home remedies that alleviate pain quickly.

When a person takes traditional pain relief medication as prescribed, with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, it is a safe and effective way to manage pain.

Natural pain relievers, however, offer an alternative for people who want to avoid the long term side effects of pain relief medication.

People can use essential oils by adding a few drops to a tissue or a steam bath and inhaling the vapor. People can also add the herbs and spices listed above to food. However, if a person is unable to do that, they can instead take them as supplements. Not every natural pain reliever will work for everyone.

Some people may find that a natural option that works well for them in the long term. Others may not be able to manage pain naturally and may prefer traditional medication.

Anyone with severe pain, including pain related to an existing health condition, should speak with a qualified healthcare professional. They can advise how best to manage this.

Chronic pain is complex, and it can take some time to work out the best methods for pain relief. Read about various pain relief techniques here. A number of natural and non-drug remedies may help relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Find out how rest, flotation therapy, acupuncture, and others….

Back pain is a widespread and potentially debilitating problem. Learn which home remedies can relieve back pain quickly and help prevent it in the…. Some people with osteoarthritis may find that natural treatments ease their symptoms. Learn about the natural treatment options, including heat and….

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Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. Medically reviewed by Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC-BC — By Lana Burgess — Updated on October 26, Lavender Rosemary Peppermint Eucalyptus Cloves Capsaicin Ginger Feverfew Turmeric Acupuncture Yoga Mindfulness meditation FAQ Summary There are various natural ways to cure, manage, or relieve pain.

Staying active, managing Hsrbal weight, and making changes to Cellular Detoxification Support diet are a few natural ways Herbal medicine for joint pain ease mediicine pain. Some alternative therapies may also help improve flexibility or relieve stiffness. For example, osteoarthritis results from the wear and tear of cartilage that causes bones to rub together. This leads to friction, damage, and inflammation. Other types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis RA are autoimmune conditions.

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