Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Holistic Solutions To Reduce Symptoms
There are a number of natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis that can offer some relief from symptoms. While there is no consensus on exactly what causes rheumatoid arthritis, it is clear that genetics, gut health, and stressors like heavy metal toxicity all play a role.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints and can lead to severe pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is estimated that approximately 1% of adults in developed countries suffer from RA, making it one of the most prevalent autoimmune diseases.1
The Connection Between Rheumatoid Arthritis And Heavy Metals
Before we get into natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis, realize that recent studies have shown a strong link between heavy metal exposure and the development of RA. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are known to be toxic to the human body, even in low concentrations. These metals can enter our bodies through various sources such as contaminated food or water, air pollution, and even cosmetics. Once inside the body, they can accumulate in the joints and tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.
Exposure to heavy metals has been linked to an increased risk of developing RA. Furthermore, heavy metal exposure has also been shown to worsen symptoms in individuals already suffering from RA.2
It is believed that heavy metals can disrupt the body’s immune system, leading to an overactive response that can trigger autoimmune diseases like RA. Heavy metals have been shown to increase the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that play a significant role in inflammation.
Moreover, heavy metal exposure can also lead to oxidative stress, which occurs when there is an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals in the body. This imbalance can cause damage to cells and tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and other health issues.
In addition to RA, most other autoimmune conditions are linked to heavy metal accumulation. The only solution is to remove these heavy metals from the body.3 4
Read more about removing heavy metals from the body.
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Diet
Diet plays a crucial role in managing RA symptoms as certain foods can trigger inflammation in the body. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods into your diet such as fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines, grass-fed meat, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil.5 6
Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, excess omega-6 fatty acids, and trans fats as they can contribute to inflammation. Limit or eliminate dairy products as they may trigger inflammation in some individuals.7
Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide numerous health benefits when consumed. They are often referred to as good bacteria because they help maintain a balance of healthy bacteria in the gut. This is important for people with RA, as research has shown that there is a link between gut health and the development and progression of this disease. Some great sources of beneficial probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.8
Consider following an anti-inflammatory diet such as my Cellular Healing Diet, as it reduces inflammation thereby improving symptoms of RA.
Read more about the Cellular Healing Diet.
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Turmeric, Ginger, Green Tea, Evening Primrose Oil, And Thunder God Vine
Five natural remedies that have shown potential in managing RA symptoms include turmeric, ginger, green tea, evening primrose oil, and thunder god vine.
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that turmeric may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with RA. To incorporate turmeric into your diet, you can add it to dishes such as curry or golden milk.9
Ginger is another spice that has anti-inflammatory properties. It contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have been found to help reduce inflammation in the body. Some studies have shown that ginger may help ease RA symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness. You can add fresh or powdered ginger to your meals, drinks, or take it in supplement form.10
Green tea is a popular beverage that is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Studies have shown that green tea may help reduce inflammation in the body and improve symptoms of RA. It also contains a compound called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been found to inhibit the production of certain inflammatory molecules.11
Evening primrose oil (EPO) is derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. It is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that EPO helps to reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA.12
Thunder god vine (Tripterygium wilfordii), also known as thunder god vine root or lei gong teng is an herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
Thunder god vine contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, specifically triptolide and celastrol. These compounds have been shown to inhibit the activity of certain proteins that promote inflammation in the body. As a result, thunder god vine may help to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints affected by RA.
There have been several studies on the effectiveness of thunder god vine for treating RA. One study found that thunder god vine was as effective as the conventional drug methotrexate in reducing inflammation and joint damage.13
While these studies show promising results, it’s important to note that thunder god vine is not without side effects and can even be poisonous when improperly prepared. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and skin rash. It may also interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating thunder god vine into your treatment plan.
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Hot And Cold Therapy
Hot therapy, also known as thermotherapy, involves applying heat to the affected area. This can be done through various methods such as using heating pads, hot water bottles, warm towels, or taking a warm bath or shower. Heat works by increasing blood flow and relaxing muscles, which can help reduce pain and stiffness in the joints.14
Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, involves applying cold to the affected area. This can be done using ice packs, cold compresses, or even a bag of frozen vegetables. Cold works by numbing the nerve endings and reducing blood flow, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints.15
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Proper Sleep
As we all know, proper sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. However, for people with rheumatoid arthritis, getting a good night’s rest can be challenging due to the pain and discomfort caused by this chronic inflammatory disorder.
Sleep is crucial for our bodies to repair and rejuvenate. It allows our muscles and tissues to relax, our immune system to recharge, and our brain to process and consolidate information. For individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, getting enough quality sleep is even more critical as it can help reduce inflammation and pain levels, improve mood and energy levels, and promote better overall health.16
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Massage
Massage therapy is a popular natural remedy for rheumatoid arthritis. It has been used for centuries to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility. Massage can also help promote relaxation and overall well-being, which can be beneficial for those living with chronic pain.
One of the main benefits of massage for rheumatoid arthritis is its ability to increase blood flow and circulation to affected areas. This can help reduce swelling and stiffness in joints, leading to improved mobility and range of motion.
Additionally, massage can help release tension and tightness in muscles surrounding the affected joints. This can provide relief from pain and improve flexibility, making daily activities easier to perform.17
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Acupuncture
As an ancient Chinese medical practice, acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat various illnesses and conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. This traditional therapy involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.
Acupuncture is believed to help alleviate RA symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and inflammation by balancing the body’s energy flow. It is also thought to stimulate the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, such as endorphins.
In recent years, there has been growing scientific evidence supporting the use of acupuncture for RA treatment.18 For RA, laser acupuncture is even more effective than using needles.19
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Exercise
Regular exercise is an important part of managing rheumatoid arthritis. While it may seem counterintuitive to move when joints are stiff and sore, physical activity can actually help improve symptoms and reduce pain. In fact, research has shown that moderate physical activity can decrease joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue in people with RA.20
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Yoga And Stretching
Yoga and stretching are two natural remedies that have been gaining popularity in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Many studies have shown that these practices can help improve symptoms, increase flexibility, and reduce pain for people living with RA.
Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It involves different body postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote physical strength, flexibility, and mental well-being. It has been proven to have numerous health benefits for people with RA.
Stretching is another low-impact form of exercise that involves moving the joints and muscles through a range of motion to increase flexibility and relieve stiffness. It can be done in conjunction with yoga or on its own as a daily routine.
One of the main benefits of yoga and stretching is that they help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. By regularly practicing yoga or stretching, you can increase blood flow to these areas and promote healing.21
Natural Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis – Holistic Solutions For Symptom Relief
One of the main benefits of using natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis is that they provide a holistic approach to managing the condition. This means that they not only target the symptoms, but also address underlying issues such as inflammation, immune system dysfunction, and gut health. By taking a holistic approach, individuals with RA can improve their overall well-being and potentially reduce the severity of their symptoms.
Read more about what causes autoimmune conditions.
References
1 Rheumatoid arthritis – Symptoms and causes. (2023, January 25). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648
2 Irfan, S., Rani, A., Riaz, N., Arshad, M., & Kashif Nawaz, S. (2017). Comparative Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Healthy Control in Pakistani Population. Iranian journal of public health, 46(5), 626–633.
3 Posin SL, Kong EL, Sharma S. Mercury Toxicity. [Updated 2022 Aug 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499935/
4 Wani, Ab Latif et al. “Lead toxicity: a review.” Interdisciplinary toxicology vol. 8,2 (2015): 55-64. doi:10.1515/intox-2015-0009
5 Linos A, Kaklamani VG, Kaklamani E, Koumantaki Y, Giziaki E, Papazoglou S, et al. Dietary factors in relation to rheumatoid arthritis: a role for olive oil and cooked vegetables? Am J Clin Nutr (1999) 70(6):1077–82.
6 Sköldstam L, Hagfors L, Johansson G. An experimental study of a Mediterranean diet intervention for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis (2003) 62(3):208–14. doi:10.1136/ard.62.3.208
7 Manzel A, Muller DN, Hafler DA, Erdman SE, Linker RA, Kleinewietfeld M. Role of “Western diet” in inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep (2014) 14(1):404. doi:10.1007/s11882-013-0404-6
8 Kullisaar T, Songisepp E, Zilmer M. Probiotics and oxidative stress. In: Lushchak VI, editor. Oxidative Stress – Environmental Induction and Dietary Antioxidants. INTECH Open Access Publisher (2012). doi:10.5772/33924
9 Ramadan G, Al-Kahtani MA, El-Sayed WM. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of Curcuma longa (turmeric) versus Zingiber officinale (ginger) rhizomes in rat adjuvant-induced arthritis. Inflammation (2011) 34(4):291–301. doi:10.1007/s10753-010-9278-0
10 Ramadan G, El-Menshawy O. Protective effects of ginger-turmeric rhizomes mixture on joint inflammation, atherogenesis, kidney dysfunction and other complications in a rat model of human rheumatoid arthritis. Int J Rheum Dis (2013) 16(2):219–29. doi:10.1111/1756-185X.12054
11 Singh BN, Shankar S, Srivastava RK. Green tea catechin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): mechanisms, perspectives and clinical applications. Biochem Pharmacol (2011) 82(12):1807–21. doi:10.1016/j.bcp.2011.07.093
12 Vasiljevic, D., Veselinovic, M., Jovanovic, M. et al. Evaluation of the effects of different supplementation on oxidative status in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Rheumatol 35, 1909–1915 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-016-3168-2
13 Lv QW, Zhang W, Shi Q, Zheng WJ, Li X, Chen H, Wu QJ, Jiang WL, Li HB, Gong L, Wei W, Liu H, Liu AJ, Jin HT, Wang JX, Liu XM, Li ZB, Liu B, Shen M, Wang Q, Wu XN, Liang D, Yin YF, Fei YY, Su JM, Zhao LD, Jiang Y, Li J, Tang FL, Zhang FC, Lipsky PE, Zhang X. Comparison of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F with methotrexate in the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis (TRIFRA): a randomised, controlled clinical trial. Ann Rheum Dis. 2015 Jun;74(6):1078-86. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-204807. Epub 2014 Apr 14. PMID: 24733191.
14 Mohamed, H. G. , & Mohamed, M. A. F. (2019). Effect of Local Heat Application on Complaints of Patients with Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis. American Journal of Nursing Research, 7(2), 148-159.
15 Xavier Guillot, Nicolas Tordi, Laurent Mourot, Céline Demougeot, Benoît Dugué, Clément Prati & Daniel Wendling (2014) Cryotherapy in inflammatory rheumatic diseases: a systematic review, Expert Review of Clinical Immunology, 10:2, 281-294, DOI: 10.1586/1744666X.2014.870036
16 Grabovac I, Haider S, Berner C, Lamprecht T, Fenzl K-H, Erlacher L, Quittan M, Dorner TE. Sleep Quality in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Associations with Pain, Disability, Disease Duration, and Activity. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2018; 7(10):336. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm7100336
17 Field T, Diego M, Delgado J, Garcia D, Funk CG. Rheumatoid arthritis in upper limbs benefits from moderate pressure massage therapy. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2013 May;19(2):101-3. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2012.12.001. Epub 2013 Feb 6. PMID: 23561068.
18 Pei-Chi Chou, Heng-Yi Chu, “Clinical Efficacy of Acupuncture on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Associated Mechanisms: A Systemic Review”, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2018, Article ID 8596918, 21 pages, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/8596918
19 Qing Wang, Yinong Wang, Zhiwei Liu, Alleviation of cartilage degeneration by laser acupuncture: An ultrasound biomicroscopic study of early postmenopausal osteoarthritis in rats, Medicine in Novel Technology and Devices, 10.1016/j.medntd.2022.100185, 16, (100185), (2022).
20 Laura Durcan, Fiona Wilson, Gaye Cunnane, The Effect of Exercise on Sleep and Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Study The Journal of Rheumatology Oct 2014, 41 (10) 1966-1973; DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.131282
21 Evans S, Moieni M, Lung K, Tsao J, Sternlieb B, Taylor M, Zeltzer L. Impact of iyengar yoga on quality of life in young women with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin J Pain. 2013 Nov;29(11):988-97. doi: 10.1097/AJP.0b013e31827da381. PMID: 23370082; PMCID: PMC3644391.
