Natural Alternative meds vs Arthritis

Dietary supplements for arthritis are very popular nowadays, but before you pop pill or recommend one to others, know the benefits and risks of using herbs and dietary supplements.Only your doctor can accurately tell if complimentary medicines will interact will interact well with other medications you are taking. Some may cause adverse effects in people at risk, including pregnant and breast-feeding women, children, babies and people with chronic illnesses and allergies. If in doubt about any complementary medicine, ask your doctor.
A dietary supplements for arthritis has any or some of these:

Ingredient/Extract = Benefits = Side Effect
                           
Avocado or Soybean = Helps relieve symptoms of chronic but stables osteoarthritis of the hip = no serious side effects reported.

Bromelain = An enzyme from pineapple that is said to have anti-inflammatory properties = No conclusive scientific evidence of effectiveness; may cause gastric problems when taken in medicinal doses or for long periods.

Ginger = claimed in ancient Indian systems of medicine as useful for inflammation and arthritis = Scientific studies inconclusive; may adversely affect the fetus when taken by women.


Green-lipped mussel = Available in oil extract or dried flesh; said to relieve joint pain and muscle discomfort = Evidence not conclusive.



Green Tea = An extract rich in anti-oxidants shown useful in preventing the onset and severity of arthritis in mice = No definitive studies done on humans.



Tumeric = Its active ingredient, curcumin, has an anti-inflammatory effect on animals = No definitive studies done on humans.

White willow bark = Conatins salicilin, which has painkilling properties similar to aspirin = Must not be taken by those sensitive to aspirin.