Herbal remidies for arthritis Certain herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA) pain. Still, researchers need more scientific evidence to support their use and to understand their potential negative effects. Before opting for herbal remedies for arthritis, consider speaking with a doctor first, as some options may interact with existing medications. Here are some herbal remedies for arthritis Herbal remidies for arthritis 1. Aloe vera Stopboxstudio/Getty Images Aloe vera is commonly usedTrusted Source in alternative medicine. It’s available in many forms, such as: While many people use aloe vera for treating small skin abrasions, such as sunburn, it may also help with joint pain. Possible benefits may include: You can apply a gel directly to the skin. Further research is still needed to confirm that these treatments are beneficial. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)Trusted Source notes that aloe vera use is likely safe, but some people may have side effects when they take it by mouth. It may lower glucose levels and interact with some diabetes medications. Herbal remidies for arthritis 2. Boswellia (frankincense) Practitioners of traditional and alternative medicine may use Boswellia serrata, also called frankincense, for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s derived from the gum of Boswellia trees, which are indigenous to India. According to a 2019 reviewTrusted Source, boswellic acid appears to have anti-inflammatory effects that could help people with RA, bronchial asthma, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory diseases. Results from trials have suggested that frankincense capsules may help improve pain, function, and stiffness due to OA. However, these were small studies. More research is still needed. It is available in the form of tablets and topical creams. Herbal remidies for arthritis 3. Cat’s claw People have traditionally used it as an anti-inflammatory and to boost the immune system. Cat’s claw is another anti-inflammatory herb that may reduce swelling in arthritis1. It comes from the bark and root of a tropical vine that grows in South and Central America. The Arthritis Foundation notes that cat’s claw suppresses tumor necrosis factor, like many conventional drugs for RA. They cite a small, older study from 2002 in which cat’s claw was shown to be effective in reducing joint swelling by over 50 percent in 40 people with RA. However, possible side effects may include: You should not use this herb if you: According to the NCCIHTrusted Source, some small studies have looked at cat’s claw for RA, but more research is needed. Herbal remidies for arthritis 4. Eucalyptus Eucalyptus is a readily available remedy that people use for a wide range of conditions. Extracts of eucalyptus leaves feature in topical remedies to treat arthritis pain. The plant leaves contain tannins, which may help reduce swelling and pain related to arthritis. Some people follow up with heat pads to maximize the effect. Eucalyptus essential oils may help reduce pain associated with RA. Always dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil before use. Use 15 drops of oil with 2 tablespoons of almond or another neutral oil. While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. It is important to speak with a doctor before using willow bark, especially if you’re using blood thinners or have a stomach ulcer. Do not take it if you’re allergic to aspirin. White willow bark contains salicin, which is the chemical that scientists usedTrusted Source to develop aspirin. Other complementary options Herbal supplements are not the only complementary approaches to arthritis pain relief. Experts from the American College of Rheumatology and the Arthritis FoundationTrusted Source recommend the following: Can diet play a role in treating osteoarthritis? Find out here. In a 2021 studyTrusted Source, researchers found that acupuncture reduced pain and improved function in people with OA. Ask a doctor about complementary medicine As interest in herbal medicine grows, conventional doctors have become more willing to assess the benefits of alternative remedies. When treating arthritis, some herbs may complement your current medications. But it’s important to understand that herbs can cause serious side effects. Buying herbal treatments from a reputable source is also essential. The FDA doesn’t monitor herbs for quality, purity, packaging, or dosage, so there’s no way of knowing if a product is contaminated or contains inactive ingredients. Some companies that sell supplements may pay for third-party testing. It is important to discuss all arthritis treatment options with a doctor to avoid any negative side effects or drug interactions. You should also never stop taking a prescribed medication without a doctor’s authorization. Some medications need to be tapered to avoid serious side effects. You may be able to find a licensed healthcare professional who can prescribe herbal medicine through the American Association of Neuropathic Physicians (AANP). Takeaway Moreover, herbal remedies may help relieve pain and inflammation associated with RA, particularly if used alongside conventional therapies. Some licensed healthcare providers may prescribe complementary options to help relieve RA symptoms, including supplements, exercise, and acupuncture this a sample text