Arthritis Is Reversible
by author Zoltan Rona, MD

This is a naturally occurring bioflavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Quercetin helps reduce the formation of leukotrienes, which are substances associated with the symptoms of most autoimmune diseases. It also prevents the breakdown of matrix of connective tissue.

Dosage: 500 mg three times daily with meals.

Devil’s Claw

This South African plant root is observed to have an action comparable to that of phenylbutazone (a NSAID) in several European studies. Besides anti-inflammatory glycosides, devil’s claw also contains numerous complex constituents including the phytosterols, B-sitosterol and stigmasterol, unsaturated fatty acids, triterpenes and flavonoids. Its low toxicity potential makes it worth trying as part of a comprehensive natural regime to reverse osteoarthritis.

Dosage: 500 mg three times daily (empty stomach).

Enzymes

Plant-based digestive enzymes (bromelain, papain) and pancreatin enzymes (animal based) are often used as oral supplements to enhance digestion. When these are taken on an empty stomach (about one hour away from food), they enter the bloodstream and work as powerful anti-inflammatory agents, reducing pain, swelling and infection while improving joint flexibility.

Dosage: Five capsules three times daily (empty stomach).

Boswellia

This herb native to India has well-proven anti-arthritic effects. It helps prevent decreased cartilage and improves blood supply to the joints. Boswellia is often in combination products containing bromelain, yucca, devil’s claw and other natural compounds.

Dosage: 400 mg three times daily (empty stomach).

Ginger

Regular supplementation for three months or longer can reduce pain, swelling and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis in 75 per cent of people. Ginger is soothing for not only inflamed joints but also any inflamed parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

Dosage: 1,000 mg three times daily (empty stomach).

Curcumin

The yellow pigment of the herb turmeric is called curcumin. In some studies it has been reported to be equally effective as cortisone without any of the associated side-effects. Curcumin is primarily effective as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.

Dosage: 500 mg three times daily with meals.

Yucca

A saponin extract of the desert yucca plant helps reverse osteoarthritis within three months of use without side-effects.

Dosage: 500 mg three times daily (empty stomach).

The treatment approach taken to any form of arthritis depends on many different factors and is best individualized for the patient by a natural health-care practitioner.

Arthritis Stats

• Arthritis is one of Canada’s most common chronic conditions.


• More than four million Canadians have arthritis.


• There are more than 100 forms of arthritis.


• For many types of arthritis, women are affected more often than men.


• The number of Canadians with arthritis is projected to increase from 2.9 million in 1991 to 6.5 million by 2031. This is equal to 100,000 per year, 8,000 per month, 2,000 per week or 300 per day.


• Arthritis and other musculoskeletal diseases ranked second among the four most costly illnesses in Canada in 1993.


• Arthritis is the most common cause of long-term disability in Canada.


• Arthritis is the third most frequent reason for prescription drug use in Canada and the second most frequent reason for non-prescription drug use.

Source: Arthritis Society, arthritis.ca

What Causes Arthritis?

Dr. Rona is the author of several best-selling books, including Osteoarthritis: Treat and Reverse Joint Pain Naturally, alive Natural Health Guide #16, available at your local health food store or by calling 1-800-663-6513. Visit Dr. Rona’s Web site at drzoltanrona.com.

Source: alive #239, September 2002