Over 4,000 years ago, people started writing about “joint pain,” and different elixirs that helped to get rid of it. Today we still complain of Arthritis, and we have simply changed the “elixirs” that we take, but modern science is changing the way we look at alternative supplements.
Modern day medicine has developed a lot of over-the-counter, and prescription medicines that are aimed at decreasing inflammation and easing pain. The most common class of medications is known as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, and ketoprofen. Although these are very effective at temporary pain relief, they are designed to reduce pain and swelling at the site of injury, but not to promote soft tissue healing, and in some cases they may inhibit bone healing. There are also some strong side effects, especially if not taken as directed. Bleeding ulcers, stomach upset, kidney damage, and liver problems are some of the more common side effects which may occur with prolonged use.
New research has been aimed at validating the alternative options. The results have been very surprising. Curcumin, the active component of turmeric was identified almost two centuries ago, and has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Modern science has revealed that curcumin mediates its effects by helping to control the production of different proteins in our body. It works as a COX-2 inhibitor, just like Vioxx, Bextra, and Celebrex, helping to decrease the activity of an enzyme that produces chemicals which cause pain and swelling. On a side note, while performing these studies, it has been found that curcumin also has many anti-oxidant properties as well. The root of Ginger, also shows a similar substance to curcumin, and they both have the same effects in the body in regards to decreasing joint swelling.
For those fruit lovers among us, there is good news about Pineapple. According to a recent article in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, compounds containing Bromelain, an enzyme found in the fruit and stem of pineapples, “can be considered as an effective and safe alternative to NSAIDs.” Other studies have been done on the safety and effectiveness of using bromelain, and most of them are getting similar results in the treatment of osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. One study concluded, “that bromelain may be effective in ameliorating physical symptoms and improving general well-being in otherwise healthy adults suffering from mild knee pain.”
Many other herbal options exist for the treatment of arthritis pain, and new studies are underway to try and validate the claims for these “holistic healers.” Glucosamine, Boswelia, Sea cucumber, MSM, and Sodium Hyaluronate, are just a few of the substances that are making their way into natural arthritis relief supplements. With all of these cost-effective alternatives, it is no wonder why so many people are trying new concoctions for the treatment of their joint pain.