There are many natural substances that can be incorporated into an arthritis treatment plan. These supplements can help repair damaged cartilage, and reduce stiffness and pain. Several natural supplements such as glucosamine and fish oil have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamin A has an antioxidant effect on cells, and can aid in bone growth and tissue repair. Vitamin A can be found in foods such as liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, eggs, milk and spinach.

Vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce some swelling and joint stiffness, and is thought to enhance collagen production and repair cartilage. Foods that contain B6 include poultry, fish, liver, eggs, beans, broccoli, cabbage, and peas.

Vitamin C seems to protect against inflammatory polyarthritis, a form of rheumatoid arthritis. There is some conflicting evidence about vitamin C and arthritis so you should discuss supplementation with your healthcare provider. A moderate intake of vitamin C can help maintain healthy bones and joints. Excessive vitamin C intake can create problems in some people. Try eating adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables to get daily recommended doses of vitamin C.

The body cannot absorb calcium from food or supplements without an adequate intake of vitamin D. Vitamin D taken along with calcium plays a critical role in maintaining bone density. A recent study revealed that taking 400 IU or more of vitamin D a day was effective in delaying or stopping the progression of osteoarthritis of the knees. Good sources of vitamin D can be found in vitamin D fortified milk and cereals, cod liver oil, salmon and mackerel.

Vitamin E has antioxidant properties, and may help prevent progression in Osteoarthritis. The therapeutic role of Vitamin E for arthritis is still under study. Vitamin E can be naturally found in nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and whole grains.

Fish oil capsules (containing omega-3 fatty acids) may decrease pain and swelling in some people with rheumatoid arthritis. These oils have been found, in various studies, to help reduce the inflammation associated with certain types of arthritis.

Glucosamine has been gaining popularity in the United States as a treatment for joint pain. As you age, your body loses the ability to produce enough glucosamine, leading to the deterioration of cartilage in weight-bearing joints. Glucosamine, which is found naturally in the body, stimulates the formation and repair of cartilage. It prevents other body enzymes from degrading the building blocks of joint cartilage. Although there is some debate about glucosamine's effect on joint damage and cartilage, many physicians believe this supplement is effective in pain reduction and reducing joint stiffness for arthritis sufferers.

Chondroitin sulfate is another natural substance found in the body that prevents other body enzymes from breaking down the building blocks of joint cartilage. Some researchers feel that glucosamine inhibits inflammation and stimulates cartilage cell growth, while chondroitin strengthens cartilage and resilience.

Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane (MSM) is a natural form of sulphur that is present in our body fluids and tissues. MSM can be found in fresh foods including most fresh fruits and vegetables, milk and some grains. MSM aids in the development of collagen which helps to hold cartilage together. There is some clinical evidence that it can be helpful for arthritis related joint pain, but it is mostly used in conjunction with other joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. MSM helps glucosamine do its job more effectively.

Yes, they can, naturally! Many herbal remedies are useful for arthritic conditions and have been shown to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation in the joints. You can find these herbs in many health food stores and markets. Often herbal remedies produce far less side effects than prescription medications. Because herbal remedies are not regulated by the government, you should speak to your doctor, nutritionist or healthcare provider to discuss the use of herbs in your treatment.

Herbal analgesics may reduce your pain and discomfort in a similar way that aspirin works in the body. Cayenne or “Capsacian” is commonly found in pain-relieving topical gels and creams and willow bark has been used in China for centuries as a pain reliever. It may be worthwhile to consider using one of the herbs listed below in your treatment plan.

• Cayenne
• Clove
• Valerian
• Willow Bark
• Yucca

Herbal anti-inflammatories work in a similar way to Non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drugs (NSAIDs), but generally act much more slowly in the body. Ginger and Turmeric have been widely used for their antioxidant properties and show some promise in the treatment of arthritis. You may consider using one of the natural anti-inflammatory herbs below to treat your pain.

• Aloe
• Boswellia
• Devil's Claw
• Feverfew
• Ginger
• Licorice root
• Marshmallow
• Rosemary
• Slippery Elm
• Stinging Nettle
• Pineapple/Bromelain
• Turmeric
• White willow
• Wild Yam

Herbal anti-rheumatics can be used for painful inflammatory and degenerative arthritis. Devil's claw has been used as a tonic to relieve arthritis, rheumatism and ease sore muscles. Other herbs listed below can also be used to relieve your pain.

• Black Cohosh
• Boneset
• Devil’s Claw
• Motherwort