If you have arthritis, you wake up in the morning hurting, you go to work hurting, and you go to bed hurting. Chronic pain is very annoying, and anything that can help is lifesaving. Many people also realize that herbs and supplements can help manage arthritis pain minus the unpleasant effects of synthetic drugs.

Millions of people with arthritis are seeking a natural approach by using supplements to get relief. Other than the prescribed medicines and store-bought natural supplements, there are a lot of natural remedies and herbs that have been used for centuries to subside the pain and soreness of your bones, joints, and ligaments.

Here are a few herbs and supplements to help reduce inflammation and manage pain from arthritis.

Green tea. A cup of green tea can slow down the pain in the joints and give relief from the discomfort. It contains compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in combating joint pain. Green tea can also calm you and provide a boost to your immune system.

Black Pepper. Several people use black pepper to get relief from the pain associated with this degenerative condition. Also, including black pepper in your diet gives you relief from the inflammation in the joints.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids. A supplement found in fish oil and other foods; Omega-3 Fatty Acids encourage the body to produce chemicals that help control inflammation. This supplement may help ease stiffness caused by inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis, but more research is needed. Fatty fish such as salmon is rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

Aloe Vera. This herb is a popular alternative medicine for a lot of diseases. It is an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating plant. It is also applied topically to soothe aching joints and minor skin burns.

Boswellia. It is also called frankincense. Alternative medicine practitioners praise it for its anti-inflammatory capabilities. It came from the gum of Boswellia trees indigenous to India.

St. John’s Wort. The flowering parts can be prepared as an oil tincture and used in topical applications to ease the pain caused by arthritis.

Devils Claw. It eases tense muscles and pain in the neck, back, or shoulder with its pain-relieving anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to boost the immune system.

Eucalyptus. Usually used in oral medications and topical oil extracts for a variety of conditions. The plant leaves contain tannins which may be helpful in reducing pain and swelling relief from arthritis and sore muscles when applied to the affected areas.

Feverfew. It contains anti-inflammatory properties. It is also suitable not just for arthritis but also for migraines, toothaches, stomach aches, headaches, and other body pains.

Ginger. Ginger roots help relieve pain from arthritis. It acts as a natural antidote for many health issues. The blend of anti-inflammatory and painkilling properties makes ginger an incredible remedy.

Lavender. Lavender promotes relaxation, which in turn makes the pain manageable.

Nettle. Aside from being a potent source of a wide array of vitamins and minerals, it also has natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory herb; it contains curcumin and curcuminoids, which reduce the inflammation of the joints. Turmeric is also a potent pain-reducing herb used all over the world for centuries.

Thunder god vine. It is one of the oldest herbs in Chinese medicine. Extracts from skinned roots are known for suppressing an overactive immune system. It makes thunder god vine a possible alternative treatment for autoimmune diseases such as arthritis. It is advisable to apply it directly to the skin.

Willow bark. It is used for thousands of years to treat pain. The inner back contains Salicin, the active compound in aspirin. Do not use willow bark if you take blood thinners or are allergic to aspirin.

Licorice root. Licorice is widely known for its intense flavor. It contains 9 anesthetic, 10 analgesic, and 20 inflammatory substances, which, make it an active pain-relieving herb.

Cinnamon. This versatile spice is loaded with antifungals and antioxidants. These properties of cinnamon make it an ideal remedy for treating arthritis pain and other kinds of joint pain.

Bay leaves. It is famous for its distinct smell and is used for cooking purposes. However, other than that, these leaves are also used for getting relief from the symptoms of arthritis and joint pain in general.

Garlic. It is a traditional remedy for arthritis. Also, several evidence-backed studies prove the effectiveness of garlic in subsiding the annoying and discomforting symptoms of arthritis.

Stinging Nettle. It is known to give relief from arthritis pain. Natural supplements that contain an amount of stinging nettle.

Burdock Root. It contains essential fatty acids which makes it a great anti-inflammatory food supplement.

Cayenne Pepper. Taken orally, it works to decrease the concentration of substances in the pain-transmitting nerve cells of the body. When applied through balm and ointments, it induces the dilation of capillaries to increase blood circulation and warmth throughout the body.

Flaxseed. This healing plant is a source of Omega-3 (ALA) that fights inflammation. Typically used in oil form, eat the seed raw and use them in recipes.

Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU). ASU is a natural extract made from one-third of avocado and soybean oil. Blocks pro-inflammatory chemicals, prevents deterioration of synovial cells, which line joints, and may help regenerate normal connective tissue. According to a study published in 2013 and 2008, it showed that ASU significantly reduced the progression of hip and knee osteoarthritis.

Black Currant Oil. It is extracted from the seeds of these fruits. Jams, jellies, juices, and even dietary supplements from blackcurrant have a small amount of this oil. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective, immune-stimulant, and skin-protective properties.

Borage Oil. It is a nutritional supplement that is rich in essential fatty acids that can regulate the body's immune system and fight joint inflammation. Borage seed oil helps improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Capsaicin. Capsaicin is a supplement taken from chili peppers. It works mainly by reducing Substance P, a pain transmitter in your nerves. It is useful in reducing pain and tenderness in affected joints.

Curcumin. It is a dietary supplement that contains curcumin (diferuloylmethane) as well as other chemicals naturally found in turmeric and pepper. Its essential components have antioxidant properties and can be part of a diet that reduces the risk of disease and its effects.

Evening primrose. It is a native American wildflower, rich in polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids that can help control pain and inflammation.

Green-lipped Mussel. It is a nutritional supplement taken from a type of mussel native to New Zealand. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory and joint-protecting properties.

Indian Frankincense. It is an Ayurvedic remedy that is usually purchased over the counter in capsule form. Indian Frankincense can help prevent the production of inflammatory substances in the joints.

Melatonin. Melatonin is directly bound to essential cells involved in autoimmune diseases. It either turn-off the signals that cause the membrane to become hyperactive or activates signals that help to disease inflammation.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). It is Organic sulfur, a nutritional mineral found naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, animals, and humans. It is an essential ‘building block’ for healthy bones and joints, and it’s beneficial for your immune system.

Pine Bark. It is a herbal extract and a nutritional supplement. Pine Bark is rich in several bioflavonoids that have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The little evidence available suggests that pine bark extract may result in an improvement in the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Do you see red flaky, itchy, and scaly patches on your skin?

Wondering why you have these uncomfortable itches, aches, and pains? You might have psoriasis. Chances are you are familiar with the condition known as “psoriasis” and think of the skin disease that causes itchy, scaly, red, and flaky skin patches.

We all know LeAnn Rimes, the Grammy Award-winning artist star. It's difficult to believe she once has psoriasis since she was a young child. Over 80 percent of her body is affected. But she has learned to manage her symptoms, proper treatment, and live a healthy lifestyle.

Many individuals may have psoriatic arthritis (PA) and are not even aware of it.

What is Psoriatic Arthritis (PA)?

Psoriatic Arthritis (PA) is an autoimmune disorder. It causes raised, red, scaly patches on the skin, even the scalp. This disease develops when the body’s immune system kicks into overdrive and starts going after the body's cells making the cells grow too quickly.

Every day can be very uncomfortable. The pain and itch make you feel like you want to scratch your body all over. The skin can then crack and can even bleed.

The stress of dealing with psoriatic arthritis affects the life of the patients. It’s debilitating mentally and physically. Pain, fatigue, and anxiety are just a few of the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.

Who gets it?

Anyone with psoriasis can have psoriatic arthritis (PA).

Psoriatic Arthritis (PA) is common in Caucasians, more so than Asian Americans and African Americans. The symptoms begin between the ages of 30 and 50 but can start even in childhood.

What causes Psoriatic Arthritis (PA)?

The causes of Psoriatic Arthritis (PA) are still unknown today. However, researchers believe that genes, environment, and biologically active substances whose activities affect the functioning of the immune system are involved.

Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis (PA)

There's no cure, but indeed, there are a lot of treatment options available to cope with and manage it. Your doctor will likely prescribe medication depending on how severe the disease is and the type of psoriatic arthritis you have. The purpose of the treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, reduce flare-ups, and retain joint function.

Self-Care Tips for Managing Psoriasis

Try makeup. Covering the areas with makeup can give you confidence. But be careful using those products that might irritate your skin. It is better to use hypoallergenic makeup or simply cover your face and body with scarves and long-sleeve clothing.

Hot and cold treatments. It may help reduce joint stiffness, swelling, and muscle spasms.

Relaxation techniques. Try to lower your stress levels with yoga, deep breathing, or meditation.

Don’t pick your skin. Manual removal of the scales can worsen them.

Life with psoriatic arthritis (PA) can be challenging. If this sounds like you, it’s time to say “enough”. Make a conscious decision about your health. Get support. It may help you to cope emotionally with your illness. Conquer your everyday battles through life-changing information, resources, and community connections. The sooner you begin seeking treatment, the sooner you will feel better.

Lupus: Diagnosis, Causes, & Treatment

Do you sometimes wonder how Grammy award-winning singer Seal got his butterfly-shaped rashes on his cheeks? Turns out that what he got isn’t a birthmark or acne scars. His iconic facial rashes were caused by an insidious and hard-to-diagnose disease called lupus.

Lupus is one of the world's most devastating and unpredictable diseases. It is a chronic autoimmune disease that has a brutal impact on a person who suffers.

Lupus is a condition that only a few people know about. In 2015, lupus gained even more attention from the public after singer Selena Gomez announced that she had been diagnosed with it in her late teens. She has likewise undergone chemotherapy and a recent kidney transplant to cope with this disease.

Lupus Facts

❏ Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disorder caused when the immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks healthy organs or areas in the body. It can be mild or life-threatening.

❏ It’s not contagious. You cannot catch or pass lupus to other people, not even through sexual contact.

❏ It's not related to cancer.

❏ Symptoms usually start in early adulthood or anywhere from the teen years into the 30s.

What is Lupus?

● Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease. It means the immune system becomes hyperactive and mistakenly attacks healthy body cells and tissues.

● Under normal function, our body's immune system makes proteins called antibodies which fight off antigens such as viruses, bacteria, and germs. The antibodies attach themselves to harmful antigens which can cause the disease.

● Auto-antibodies cause inflammation and swelling that can damage organs and tissues of the body including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain.

● This disorder usually occurs in women. Symptoms typically start in early adulthood, anywhere from the teen years into the 30s.

● People with lupus generally experience flare-ups and periods of remission. That’s why early signs are easy to dismiss.

● Doctors believe that lupus results from both genetic and environmental stimuli.

● There is no cure for lupus and its symptoms, but it can be controlled with medication. Treatments for Lupus include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and lifestyle changes.

There are four known types of lupus:

1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form of lupus, and it affects many parts of the body. The most characteristic of the symptoms of SLE is the butterfly rash or malar rash that appears in the bridge of the nose and cheek.

2. Discoid (Cutaneous)

Discoid is a kind of lupus that causes a rash or lesion on the skin, usually when exposed to sunlight. It does not include the body’s internal organs, but pain may accompany the rash.

3. Drug-induced Lupus (DIL)

DIL is similar to SLE usually caused by an overreaction to certain medications. Symptoms typically disappear after the patient stops or discontinues taking these medications.

4. Neonatal Lupus

In rare cases, it occurs when an infant acquires auto-antibodies from its mother with SLE. This condition can cause skin, anemia, or liver problems. Symptoms resolve within the first six months of the infant's life.

Causes of Lupus

The reason for the abnormal auto-immunity that causes the disease is still unknown. However, scientists believe that genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors are involved.

Symptoms and Signs

People with lupus may experience different symptoms from one another because the disease can affect any part of the body.

The typical symptoms include the following;

● Extreme fatigue

● swelling in joint pain

● facial rash (butterfly rash)

● unexplained fevers (more than 100 F)

● hair loss

● sensitivity to the sunlight

● seizures

● nose or mouth sores

● chest pain

Diagnosis

Typically, when a person has several features of the disease including signs and symptoms, the doctor will conduct several complete and accurate medical histories, physical examinations, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic studies to determine if you indeed have the disease or to make a diagnosis and to monitor the progress of the disease once diagnosed.

The most useful tests include the following; complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis, blood chemistries, complement levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), ANA, and another autoantibody.

Treatments

Still, there is no known cure for lupus. However, it can be treated effectively with medications according to the severity of the signs and symptoms. Factors such as age, type of drugs a patient is taking, and overall health are considered.

Specific treatments and medications most commonly used to control lupus include the following:

● Steroids or prednisone and related derivatives of cortisone. Creams can be directly applied to rashes

● Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). It is used to help keep control of mild lupus-related problems, such as skin and joint disease

● Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan). A drug for chemotherapy, it is useful in reducing the activity of the immune system.

● Azathioprine, a medication originally used to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs.

● Methotrexate (Rheumatrex). Another chemotherapy medication is used to suppress the immune system. Its use is for skin disease, arthritis, and non-life threatening forms of illness that have not responded to drugs such as low doses of prednisone or hydroxychloroquine.

● Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) and mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept). It is also a drug for chemotherapy and is useful in reducing the activity of the immune system. It is usually used t treat severe lupus, especially lupus that affects the kidney.

● Belimumab (Benlysta). It is a monoclonal antibody that reduces the activity of white blood cells (lymphocytes) that make autoantibodies.

● Rituximab (Rituxan) belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal that reduces the activity of white blood cells (lymphocytes) that produce autoantibodies.

Alternative or complementary approaches may help cope with or reduce some of the patient's pressure from the situation. Certain activities include:

● Eat well. Proper nutrition is an essential treatment plan for the disease

● Exercise and enough rest

● Don’t smoke and void alcohol

● Play it safe in the sun

● Treat fevers

● Get to know your condition.

● Ask for help.

Lupus continues to present many unanswered questions. However, the outlook for people living with lupus is improving each decade with the development of more accurate monitoring tests and treatments. It is essential to understand the illness.

If you or your family member has the above symptoms and manifestations, talk to your doctor before you make any assumptions

References

Elish D, Silverberg NB. Neonatal lupus erythematosus. Cutis. 2006;77:82–86

Pons-Estel GJ, Alarcon GS, Scofield L, et al. Understanding the epidemiology and progression of systemic lupus erythematosus. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2010;39:257–268. Free article (PubMed)

D’Cruz DP. Systemic lupus erythematosus. BMJ. 2006;332:890–894 Free article (PubMed)

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