1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids From Fish Oils:
The omega-3 fats EPA and DHA found in fish oil have been found by many animal
and clinical studies to possess anti-inflammatory properties that promote joint
lubrication and decrease joint inflammation. Animal based omega-3 fats form the
precursors to the molecules that actually produce or inhibit inflammation in
your body (prostaglandins). That is why it is essential to make sure you are
getting enough. It is also vital to understand that you need to reduce omega-6
fats like vegetable oils seeds and nuts, as it is actually the ratio of omega
6:3 fats that determines how much inflammation is present. You could
theoretically consume enough omega-3 fish oils to work but then ruin the effect
by consuming too many omega-6 fats.
2. Ginger: This herb is
anti-inflammatory and offers pain relief and stomach-settling properties. Fresh
ginger works well steeped in boiling water as a tea or grated into vegetable
juice.
3. Bromelain Enzymes: This enzyme, found
in pineapples, is a natural anti-inflammatory. It can be taken in supplement
form, but eating fresh pineapple may also be helpful.
4. Cetyl Myristoleate (CMO): This oil,
found in fish and dairy butter, acts as a "joint lubricant" and an
anti-inflammatory.
In one study of 106 people with various types of arthritis who did not respond to NSAIDs, 63.5 percent of those who took CMO orally and applied the cream topically (it's available both in oral supplement and cream forms) improved, compared to only 14.5 percent of those taking a placebo.
In one study of 106 people with various types of arthritis who did not respond to NSAIDs, 63.5 percent of those who took CMO orally and applied the cream topically (it's available both in oral supplement and cream forms) improved, compared to only 14.5 percent of those taking a placebo.
5. Boswellia: aka "boswellin"
or "Indian frankincense," this herb contains specific active
anti-inflammatory ingredients, referred to as boswellic acids that animal
studies have shown significantly reduce inflammation. In a study of 175
patients with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, 122
participants had reduced stiffness and inflammation just two to four weeks
after starting on boswellia.
6. Evening Primrose Oil (or borage oil
or black current oil): These contain the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic
acid (GLA), which is useful for treating arthritic pain. In one study of 37
rheumatoid arthritis patients, those who received 1.4 grams of GLA per day
reduced the number of tender joints by 36 percent, the tenderness of the joints
by 45 percent, the number of swollen joints by 28 percent, and the degree of
joint swelling by 41 percent. The placebo group showed no significant
improvements.
7. Cayenne Pepper: (capsaicin) in the
form of cayenne cream:
Also called capsaicin cream, this spice comes from dried hot peppers. It alleviates pain by depleting the body's supply of substance P, a chemical component of nerve cells that transmits pain signals to the brain.
Also called capsaicin cream, this spice comes from dried hot peppers. It alleviates pain by depleting the body's supply of substance P, a chemical component of nerve cells that transmits pain signals to the brain.
8. White Willow
Consult your health professional today
to see if these natural alternatives will provide you with the pain relief you
deserve.
Dr. Larry Smith Chiropractor and Author
of:
Embrace the Journey of Recovery: From
Tragedy to Triumph!
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