- Several natural supplements are touted to promote joint health and alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis. While studies on these supplements are mixed, they seem to provide benefits to many who take them. The Mayo Clinic talks about glucosamine and chondroitin as two natural substances that promote the building of new cartilage. SAMe is said to help prevent the degeneration of existing cartilage. Vitamins C and E may help as antioxidants in preventing inflammation and damage to the joints. If you take calcium citrate for bone strength, you should also take vitamin D and magnesium so the calcium is more readily absorbed. These are organic compounds that your body is already using daily. By supplementing your diet with more of these compounds you will provide more nutrition for your join health. One reason degeneration occurs so quickly for some people is because diets lack the nutrients needed or their body absorbed nutrients in other metabolic processes and steals it from the joints. Talk to your doctor before taking supplements.
- Studies on herbal remedies have not confirmed or denied the effectiveness of many herbal remedies. According to HolisticOnline.com, herbs can be used for a variety of symptoms and conditions that you suffer as a result of osteoarthritis. Several herbs help reduce swelling, including boswellia, devils claw, ginger and turmeric. Yucca has been used by American Indians for centuries and is reported to help ease the pain of arthritis. According to Keith Johnson, MD, consuming yucca mimics natural cortisone in the body. Cayenne has an active ingredient called capsaicin which helps heat the area and relieve pain.
There are herbs and berries that promote the building of connective tissue also discussed at HolisticOnline specifically for osteoarthritis. This include horsetail which has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its anti-arthritic properties. Cherries, hawthorne berries and blueberries are rich in anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins that help improve collagen strength and structure. Always discuss any herbal remedies with your doctor as there may be adverse reactions with other medications or treatment programs.