People who are frustrated with conventional medications for rheumatoid arthritis may be attracted to herbs, supplements and other natural remedies.
While natural treatments are appealing, it’s important to note that natural doesn’t always mean safe. Some people think that supplements – especially herbs – are safe because they are natural alternatives to the chemicals in prescription drugs. But herbs, too, are chemicals. And anything strong enough to help also may be strong enough to hurt.
That said, there are some extracts and supplements that have been useful in treating various types of arthritis. For example, research shows that taken in large quantities, the omega-3 fatty acids found in oils from certain fish modify inflammation associated with RA. Other research has shown that oil extracted from the borage plant has properties similar to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without the gastrointestinal side effects. However, researchers have not yet determined the effective dosages and long-term side effects of these supplements.
Although many supplements are touted to help RA, the fact is, for most supplements, solid scientific evidence is not available.
For more information – including legitimate studies – on herbs and supplements, consult the Web site of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, part of the National Institutes of Health. You can also find information about herbs and supplements used for arthritis in Arthritis Today's Supplement Guide.
