Treating Joint Pain the Natural Way

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 52 million Americans have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis and that number is on the rise. 

Osteoarthritis (or degenerative joint disease) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 26 million adults in the U.S.  

See also 4 Supplements for Healthy Aging.

While popping an over-the-counter or even prescription medication to treat joint pain symptoms was once common, consumers are now finding success with vitamins and other natural remedies to meet their joint health needs. 

Here are two ingredients to consider.

Boswellia Serrata Extract 

Boswellia serrata has been used clinically to treat inflammatory joint disorders due to its powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.  

A study published in the journal Phytomedicine found a significant improvement in subjects with knee osteoarthritis after they supplemented with boswellia for eight weeks. Another study found the herbal supplement worked better long term than a popular prescription medication used to treat symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. 

The Arthritis Foundation recommends taking a dose between 300 to 400 milligrams three times per day and choosing a product that contains 60 percent boswellic acid.  

Curcumin 

Curcumin (curcuma longa) is the active ingredient in turmeric that can help reduce joint pain and swelling.  

In a 2012 study, subjects with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who took curcumin had fewer RA symptoms than subjects who were taking a prescription medication to treat their symptoms. What’s more, the curcumin users did not report any adverse drug effects. 

For osteoarthritis, the Arthritis Foundation recommends a dose between 400 to 600 milligrams three times per day. For RA, the suggested dose is 500 milligrams twice daily.  

Try: MegaFood Turmeric Strength for Joint Tablets 

This herbal supplement contains boswellia, curcumin and other ingredients known to support joint health such as devil’s claw with black pepper extract to aid absorption. 

Try: Terry Naturally BosMed Joint Comfort Capsules 

With more than 70 percent total organic and boswellic acids plus curcumin enhanced with turmeric essential oil, this joint health blend supports healthy mobility and flexibility. 

Karen Morse, MPH, is a freelance health and nutrition writer. In her free time, she enjoys Pilates, exploring nearby hiking trails and cooking up fresh, seasonal eats in the kitchen. Her work has appeared in Clean Eating, Weight Watchers, YouBeauty.com and others.