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Common Complementary and Alternative Medicine Therapies
Both homeopathic and naturopathic medicines use natural products that come from plants, minerals or animals. Although no natural medicine has shown clear treatment benefits, there is evidence that a few may help relieve pain. Here are a few natural medicines that scientists have investigated for use in arthritis. Do the research and talk to your healthcare professional before taking any natural medication.
Fish oils
- What they contain: High amounts of two omega-3 fatty acids
- Sources: Herring, mackerel, salmon, halibut, cod, and tuna; available as capsules or oils
- Potential benefits: Reduce inflammation and morning stiffness. They may also reduce the need for NSAIDs and other conventional rheumatoid arthritis medicines.
- Precautions: Fish oils could lower blood pressure and increase the risk of bleeding. Some fish oils have high levels of contaminants such as mercury.
Plant oils (gamma-linolenic acid)
- What they contain: Omega-6 fatty acids
- Sources: Some plant seeds, including evening primrose, borage, and black currant
- Potential benefits: Can be converted into substances that may reduce inflammation, joint pain, stiffness and tenderness. They may reduce the need for NSAIDs.
- Precautions: Some borage oil preparations contain chemicals that can harm the liver.
Thunder god vine
- Source: Extracts are prepared from the skinned root of the vine.
- Potential benefits: May fight inflammation and suppress the immune system.
- Precautions: Larger studies are needed to determine whether thunder god vine is a safe and effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. It can cause serious side effects and can affect the reproductive system.
Pomegranate extract
- Source: Dietary supplements called POMx
- Potential benefits: May prevent arthritis.
- Precautions: Clinical trials are required before POMx can be recommended as safe and effective.
Glucosamine
- What is it: An amino sugar the body produces and distributes in cartilage and other connective tissue.
- Source: Shellfish; sold as a dietary supplement
- Potential benefits: May provide pain relief.
- Precautions: Most side effects are mild.
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