Joint health and arthritic issues are a huge problem worldwide. Anti-inflammatory and painkilling drugs are being overprescribed more than ever. The concern with this issue is that most over-the-counter and prescription drugs are highly dangerous when used long term. Whether people are dealing with sports injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or age-related wear and tear, reducing pain and protecting the joints – medication is not a safe long time alternative. Reliance on pain killers can lead to dependence and even be fatal. Before turning to drugs it may be helpful to consider more natural alternatives. These natural ingredients offer holistic preventive care that helps in the management of inflammation.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, which is a very popular supplement and also used as a spice. Both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine have been using curumin for thousands of years due to its anti-inflammatory properties. This herb has been found to be effective for pain relief, joint support, inflammation reduction, oxidative damage, and cellular health of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
Boswellia (boswellia serrata) is a tree gum resin that has multiple health benefits. Also known as frankincense, it has been burned as incense in religious and cultural ceremonies and folk medicine for centuries to treat inflammatory diseases. Boswellia has anti-inflammatory action much like conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Long term usage of Boswellia does not lead to irritation or ulceration of stomach, which makes it safer than NSAIDs.
Ginger is a spice that is well documented in Indian system of Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce severity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger contains very potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. These substances are believed to explain why so many people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis experience reductions in their pain levels and improvements in their mobility when they consume ginger regularly.
Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine are 2 different compounds that are often used together in supplement form. Chondroitin is naturally occurring in the body and is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, which can help to reduce the painful swelling in the joints that occurs when the exposed bones in the joint rub together. In addition, chondroitin sulfate may also help slow the breakdown of cartilage and help restore cartilage growth to better cushion the joints. Glucosamine is extracted from shell fish, while chondroitin sulfate is found in animal cartilage such as tracheas or shark cartilage. Some laboratory tests show that glucosamine sulfate may help protect joint cartilage by limiting breakdown and helping to build up levels of cartilage.
Methylsulfonylmethane, otherwise known as (MSM) is an organic sulfur compound that is naturally found in fruits, vegetables and some grains. MSM contains the sulfur needed to form connective tissue. It helps to act as a natural pain reliever by lessening nerve impulses that transmit pain.
Still be advised that although these pain relieving alternatives are natural, it doesn’t mean they can be safely taken with other medications. To avoid any potential interactions, with your health care provider before you begin a new regimen.