Home Remedies and Herbs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a form of arthritis, which is a collection of conditions affecting joints and surrounding tissues. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, and other joint problems.¹ Some patients may experience additional complications due to the inflammation associated with RA. This can include damage to the eyes, lungs, skin, heart, and blood vessels.² 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning your body mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In contrast to osteoarthritis, which occurs due to wear and tear on the body, rheumatoid arthritis affects joint linings. This can lead to joint deformity and bone erosion.² 

The severity of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person. You may experience symptom flares, where pain and stiffness worsen, or periods of remission, where symptoms seem to improve.¹

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system attacks the lining of the membranes surrounding your joints. This results in inflammation that can damage bone and cartilage in the joints as well as weaken the tendons and ligaments.³ It’s not clear what triggers rheumatoid arthritis. It’s believed to develop through a combination of genetic and environmental factors.⁴ Some of these factors include:

• Age: Older individuals--usually starting in their 60s--are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, though it can develop at any age.
• Gender: Women are two to three times more likely to develop RA than men.
• Family history: If someone in your family has RA, you may be at greater risk.
• Smoking: Smoking increases your chances of developing RA, especially if you have a family history. Smoking can also increase the severity of the disease.
• Obesity: Obesity may increase your risk of rheumatoid arthritis.3 Physical activity may reduce your risk.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may include:

• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in the hands and feet
• Warmth in joints
• Lack of appetite
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Decreased range of motion
• Low-grade fever

Rheumatoid arthritis is a symmetrical disease, which means symptoms occur in the same spot on both sides of the body.⁵

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

If you have rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, it’s important to seek the help of a rheumatologist to diagnose your condition. Consulting a qualified care provider also allows you to learn more about your rheumatoid arthritis treatment options. To help reduce pain and inflammation, talk to your doctor about taking the following rheumatoid arthritis herbs:

• Apple Cider Vinegar and Water - Apple cider vinegar has numerous health benefits. Among them, it helps reduce pain and inflammation in RA patients. Mix a small amount in a glass of water and drink daily.
• Peroxide - Peroxide can help treat RA symptoms. Just be sure you’re using special food-grade peroxide to help reduce the inflammation.
• Turmeric - This rheumatoid arthritis herbal remedy is an ancient herb containing anti-inflammatory compounds. Take it in capsule form, or add it to foods as a spice.
• Devil’s Claw - Devil’s claw is a rheumatoid arthritis home remedy that helps reduce pain and inflammation. Take it as a tincture, capsule, liquid, or powder daily for up to two to three months.

References

1. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/types.html
2. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/home/ovc-20197388
3. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/dxc-20197390
4. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid.htm
5. http://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/cmc/arthritis/rheumatoid