Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the membranes that are lining the joints mistakenly and results in pain and inflammation. In traditional medicine there is no cure for this autoimmune disorder. The various drugs used to control pain, swelling and bone loss can cause side effects that range in severity from nausea and anemia to damage in the liver.
Hence, it is necessary to find a natural cure for rheumatoid arthritis, because natural methods may not completely eliminate traditional medicines but will help you reduce the dosage to a point where side effects are no longer a problem.
Top 5 Cures For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are the anti inflammatory products that have been extensively studied. These fats are healthy for the heart and boost the functioning of the brain and are present in high concentrations in seafood especially fatty fish varieties, like sardines, tuna and salmon. It has been observed that RA patients, who take high quantities of Omega 3 fatty acids, suffer less from joint pain and morning stiffness.
If you don’t like fish, you can opt for fish oil capsules that are available over the counter and act as a cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, remember that high dosage of Omega 3 fatty acids can cause the blood to become thin; hence, you should consult your doctor for the right dosage.
Gamma Linolenic Acid
This is an Omega 6 fatty acid that has anti inflammatory properties. It is found in high concentrations in evening primrose oil, black currant seeds and borage oil.
Studies have proved that people, who take 1,000 milliliter capsules of borage oil daily for six months, report less stiffness and joint pains. This oil helps them eventually lower the dosage of anti inflammatory drugs.
Spices
Turmeric and ginger are the spices that are well known for their anti inflammatory properties. In fact, these spices are like low dosages of ibuprofen and aspirin. Some studies performed on ginger extract have proved that it reduces the production of inflammation causing chemicals in the body and is a great cure for rheumatoid arthritis.
If you don’t want to use these spices in cooking, you can opt for supplements. However, be careful about the dosage because in higher doses they can cause stomach irritation, gastric ulcers and even bleeding.
Anti Inflammatory Diet
Processed foods enhance inflammation in the body, whereas some foods have the opposite effect. A diet rich in whole grains, vegetables and fruits, fish, olive oil, herbs, spices, beans, and green or white tea is an effective anti-inflammatory diet.
On the other hand, foods like sugar, red meat, flour, saturated fats and trans fats promote inflammation and can make the symptoms of RA worse.
Herbal Supplements
There are many herbs, which are the natural cures for rheumatoid arthritis. Bromelain an enzyme found in pineapple, EGCG found in green tea extract, oleanolic acid derived from olive oil and herbs, like boswelia, ginkgo, devil’s claw and thunder god vine are also good for RA patients.
However, these herbal supplements have a few side effects. So, you should consult your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over the counter medication along with them.