Herbal Medications Part Three

Previous articles have focused on the use of herbal supplementation for a variety of systemic ailments. There is mounting evidence that many readily available and widely used herbs may ease the nagging discomfort of arthritis. Over-the-counter remedies such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and SAMe have been studied extensively for osteoarthritis (OA) and do seem to impart substantial benefit. Lesser known, however, in the battle against OA is the use of the following five common kitchen spices. They all appear to exert their effect through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
(1) Saffron – Saffron is a potent antioxidant herb that is handpicked from crocus blossoms. It is expensive (tapping in at $45 per ounce), but can be used either as a brewed tea or as a topical agent that can be rubbed directly into the joints.
(2) Ginger – As noted in previous installments, ginger has long been used as a traditional Asian remedy for arthritis pain. It tends to improve blood flow to the joints, certainly important during the rainy season when patients complain the most of arthritic flares. Many use ginger in oral supplements at doses of 500 milligrams three times per day whereas others prefer ginger tea (one teaspoon of ginger in hot water, steep for 20 minutes, strain, enjoy!).
(3) Cayenne – We all know cayenne is capable of burning your lips off, but it can also block a substance known to transmit pain signals in the body. It is generally used topically much like saffron and acts as an "herbal heating pad".
(4) Tumeric – Tumeric has been shown to decrease inflammation, reduce swelling and even prevent cartilage destruction. It is typically found in curry, a well-known staple of East Indian diets. Consumption of curry dishes several times per week or supplementation with tumeric capsules (100 mg two to three times per day) is recommended in order to exert the fore mentioned effect.
(5) Rosemary – Generally found in Mediterranean diets, rosemary contains phytochemicals and antioxidants that decrease joint inflammation and subsequent pain. Add six drops of rosemary to a ½ teaspoon of almond oil and rub into painful joints. Obviously, OA can be a progressive and debilitating condition without cure. These herbs may not be effective for everyone, but given their potential benefit and ease on the wallet, it may certainly be worth the taste!

Do you have any medical questions or concerns that you would like addressed? You can contact Dr. Spence by email at panhandledailydose@hotmail.com or by mailing your question to Daily Dose, P.O. Box 6107, Marianna, FL 32446.