According to Medical News Today, an estimated 50 million Amerian adults suffer with arthritis pain. Rheumatoid arthritis (or RA) is one of the most severe and progressive forms that occurs when the body mistakenly begins attacking the joints. Symptoms of RA can present in joint pain, inflammation, redness, joints that are warm to touch, and mobility issues. RA also occurs in flare ups, which describe durations of severe symptoms before remission (or periods with no symptoms) offer periodic relief.
Let’s look back to the past for some arthritis wisdom from our ancestors:
1. Nettle
Nettle, more frighteningly referred to as stinging nettle, is an herbal remedy derived from the plant of the same name. In old times, arthritis sufferers would grind up plant extracts to take as supplements or in teas or tinctures to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation (with similar effects to medications like Humira, Xeljanz, and Olumiant medicine for RA pain relief). Today, stinging nettle tea is still recommended by naturopaths as a means to reduce inflammation throughout the entire body.
2. Flaxseed
Flaxseeds are a versatile little seed that can be ground up and added inconspicuously to oatmeal, smoothies, fresh juices, and even coffee. The benefits for arthritis sufferers come in the form of a specific type of omega-3 fatty acid known as alpha-linolenic acid (or ALA). Thankfully, flaxseeds are made up of over 50% ALA content. Even though our ancestors ground up flax to reduce arthritis-related inflammation, medical studies continue to tout the inflammation-fighting ability of flaxseeds.
3. Dandelion
Often consumed as a diuretic in tea, dandelion is more than just a common garden weed. If you suffer from any type of arthritis (i.e., RA, gouty arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc.) this happy yellow flower can be consumed fresh on salads or steeped in tea for its antioxidant richness. And antioxidants have a natural anti-inflammatory on arthritic joints (akin to RA medications like Xeljanz).
4. Licorice
This isn’t your cinema licorice, although it may be your grandpa’s licorice. We’re talking licorice herb, where the original old timey candy derives its distinctive flavor. Many natural practitioners refer to licorice as “nature’s cortisone minus the nasty side effects” (i.e., high Xeljanz dosages). Not only is licorice herb naturally anti-inflammatory, it doesn’t taste too bad either. Look for natural licorice tea leaves at your health food store. This will taste like black not red licorice when sipped.
5. Prescription medications
If you are taking a doctor-prescribed medication for RA pain and inflammation, (i.e., Xeljanz or Humira) be sure to talk to your doctor first before incorporating any natural remedies that may cause adverse effects. Your healthcare professional may also be able to offer patient discounts or prescription Xeljanz coupons for specific drugs.
