Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 27 million Americans. When the firm and sinewy cartilage in between joints breaks down, their cushioning effect is reduced, causing the bones to rub together---producing pain, swelling and limited range of motion. Common areas include hand, knees, hips and spine. While prescribed medication or surgery (in severe cases) can provide relief, many turn to herbal treatments to address this debilitating condition.
Green Tea
Green tea has already been linked to health benefits ranging from preventing cardiovascular diseases to promoting good skin. Researchers at the University of Sheffield uncovered more benefits: Green tea's active ingredients, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and ECG (epicatechin gallate) can block enzymes that destroy cartilage, and reduce swelling and pain related to osteoarthritis. Dr. David Buttle, involved in the above-mentioned study, further adds that green tea should be taken as a preventive measure, because its ability to repair already-damaged cartilage is not clear.
If you are taking green tea extract, aim for 250mg to 500mg daily---or drink a cup of green tea daily.
Ginger
In Ayurvedic medicine (the Hindu system of medicinal practices), ginger is often used to treat inflammation and rheumatism, together with other herbs, purgatives and rubbing oils. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, in a study involving 261 people with osteoarthritis, those who took ginger extract twice a day experienced less pain and required less pain-killing medications. Why? Ginger inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandin and leukotriene, both inflammatory mediators.
Include ginger in your diet: Grated ginger can be added to food, desserts, marinades and sauces for that extra zing. Steep slices of fresh ginger in boiling water to make a refreshing ginger drink (honey optional). For arthritis relief, you can also take 2 to 4 grams of ginger juice, extract or tea. Ginger oil can be used applied topically to painful joints.
Cherry
A recent study conducted by the Baylor Research Institute uncovered a promising osteoarthritic pain reliever---cherry. More than half of the patients involved in this study reported significant improvement in pain and function after taking tart cherry pills for 8 weeks.
According to Russel Reiter, a nutrition researcher at the University of Texas Health Science Center, cherries have a unique antioxidant profile that works like some types of pain medication. Anthocyanins, responsible for the bright red color in cherries, work to reduce levels of nitric oxide, a compound associated with osteoarthritis.
You can easily find cherries all year round in fresh, dried, frozen or juice form. Incorporate them into your diet as snacks, in smoothies or as a topping for desserts and cereals.
Turmeric
Turmeric is the root of the Curcuma longa plant, and has long been used in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat rheumatic conditions, digestive and liver problems and skin diseases. According to the National Institutes of Health, laboratory and animal studies show that curcumin, the active ingredient found in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for treating osteoarthritis.
Turmeric is often used in Asian and Indian cooking to flavor curries, stew or to marinate meat and fish. You can also find turmeric supplements and extracts.
Tags: often used, with osteoarthritis, your diet