Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in the U.S. with one in every 10 people dealing with the painful effects of this degenerative joint disease.
OA is often referred to as “wear and tear” disease. Osteoarthritis patients are mostly affected in the hands, hips and knees, experiencing pain, aching, stiffness, decreased range of motion and swelling.
The other primary type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, beginning with the lining of joints.
No one really knows what causes the different types of arthritis. It’s generally believed that many forms of arthritis are a genetic issue, which originates by a fault in the immune system that causes the body to attack its own tissues in the joints.
Then again, other types of arthritis may be caused by problems with the immune system or by a metabolic condition such as gout.
Environmental factors like obesity, which puts added strain on joints may contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. Activities that involve repetitive movements of a particular joint damaged from a sports injury may also fan the flames or arthritis pain.
Researchers say you are also more likely to develop arthritis if you smoke and if you don’t do enough physical activity.
According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment for arthritis includes medications, therapy and surgery.
But the disease may continue to progress.
Medicinal Plants That May Help
There has been considerable research on how medicinal plants may help in the pain management of arthritis. Some of the most promising results come in the form of cannabidiol (CBD) topical cream, made from the hemp plant, which is a species of cannabis.
CBD – While human testing is somewhat lacking, animal research and anecdotal testimonials have been encouraging. Still there are concerns and users need to be cautious.
The problem with CBD products is that they are largely unregulated in the U.S. market. Independent testing has shown mislabeling and lack of quality control.
Another issue to keep in mind is that not all CBD is created equally (see our story on CBD). The three primary forms of CBD available right now are:
- Full-spectrum CBD contains all the phytochemicals that occur naturally in the cannabis plant including trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound in marijuana.
- Broad-spectrum CBD contains all the phytochemicals that are in the cannabis plant but no THC.
- CBD isolate is the pure form of CBD. This becomes a fine white powder that contains 99% cannabidiol, stripping out all other plant components in the refining process.
There has been considerable disagreement among CBD manufacturers over which product is best. Much of the infighting has to with what’s known as the entourage effect.
In whole plant (non-conventional) medicine, the entourage effect refers to hundreds of natural components within a plant interacting together and with the human body to produce a stronger impact than with any one of those components used alone. The combination of these multiple compounds in their natural state is what produces a synergy.
Full-spectrum CBD may benefit from the entourage effect because the plant’s natural components working together have not been eliminated, as is the case with CBD isolate.
Other medicinal plants worth considering for arthritis pain relief:
Boswellia – Also called frankincense, Boswellia serrata is derived from the gum of the Boswellia trees indigenous to India. Boswellic acid may have anti-inflammatory effects that could help people with OA or RA.
There have even been human trials that suggest frankincense capsules may lessen pain and stiffness due to OA. Doses of up to 1 gram a day of Boswellia appear to be safe with most people – but high doses may affect the liver.
Besides capsules, you can find Boswellia as topical creams or in tablet form.
Cat’s Claw – This is another anti-inflammatory medicinal plant that comes from the root and bark of Central America tropical vines. Interestingly, the Arthritis Foundation has gone on record as reporting that cat’s claw suppresses tumor necrosis factor (TNF) like many of the conventional drugs for rheumatoid arthritis.
In small studies, cat’s claw has been shown to be effective in reducing joint swelling in some people. However, there may be side effects such as low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and headache. Cat’s claw is generally not recommended for people who use blood thinners or are taking medication that suppress the immune system.
Cat’s claw is commonly available in capsules, extract and tincture drops.
Aloe Vera – This medicinal plant exhibits many pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and immune boosting characteristics. Despite the lack of vigorous human studies, there is ample evidence that aloe vera works for some people in helping to manage arthritis pain.
Aloe vera gel can be applied to the affected areas much like you would rub in a lotion. It’s best to start with a little to make sure there’s no skin irritation.
Some people find organic aloe vera juice (which tastes a little bitter) more effective. Start with small amounts, like 2–3 fluid ounces (59–89 mL) once a day, to see how you react to the juice. Work your way up to 2–3 fluid ounces (59–89 mL) 3 times a day if there’s no adverse reaction.
Aloe vera capsules are also available. Read the recommended dosage, but always start with least amount. Aloe vera tends to have more side effects than most medicinal plants.
Note: As with all medicinal plants, it’s best to first discuss their possible use with your health professional. Allergies and other conditions (especially if pregnant or breastfeeding) could result in side effects.
