Supplements for arthritis: Joint expert on blackcurrant and borage seed oil, and more

Dr Hilary discusses arthritis drugs tocilizumab and sarilumab

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If you suffer from arthritis, you may be tempted to try blackcurrant seed oil, which is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids – the latter of which can be converted by the body into prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are said to regulate the immune system and fight joint inflammation, as confirmed by the charity Versus Arthritis. Clinical trials have explored whether blackcurrant seed oil can help reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

While research shows the supplement could help reduce morning stiffness after six weeks of treatment, the effects didn’t last after treatment stopped.

Furthermore, blackcurrant seed oil didn’t seem to have a positive effect on pain levels, grip strength or improving mobility.

When it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis, borage seed oil seems to be more effective at reducing painful symptoms.

One trial involving 37 people with the autoimmune condition were randomly assigned borage seed oil or a placebo for six months.

While those in the placebo group showed no improvement in symptoms during the trial, the people taking borage seed oil showed an improvement in:

• Joint tenderness
• Number of swollen joints
• Morning stiffness.

Be aware that some participants reported side effects such as belching, diarrhoea and flatulence.

Other possible side effects from taking borage seed oil might include:

• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Headaches
• Rashes.

Another herbal remedy you may have heard of is cat’s claw, which has been shown to “prevent the activation of several inflammatory substances in your body”, said Versus Arthritis.

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A trial demonstrated the consumption of cat’s claw could be beneficial for reducing the number of painful joints when used in tandem with arthritis medication.

Then there’s devil’s claw, which may be considered effective medicine for osteoarthritis.

A clinical review found that participants who consumed devil’s claw “had a significant improvement in osteoarthritis-related pain compared to those who were on a placebo”.

Another study stated that people experienced less painful symptoms taking devil’s claw than a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug called phenylbutazone.

Devil’s claw may interact with anticoagulants, painkillers, or heart drugs.

It’s, for this reason, you must first discuss using this supplement with your doctor if you’re currently taking medication.

Possible side effects of devil’s claw include:

• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Bleeding
• Rashes
• Stomach upsets
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite.

Then there’s Indian frankincense – an Ayurvedic remedy – that could be beneficial for osteoarthritis.

One trial – involving 30 participants with osteoarthritis – found that 333mg of Indian frankincense capsules, three times daily, improved symptoms.

Participants taking the Indian frankincense capsules in the eight-week study had “moderate improvement” in pain, knee flexion and mobility.

“The compound was well tolerated by participants, with only minor stomach upsets reported,” Versus Arthritis added.

If you would like more support with arthritis pain management, do visit Versus Arthritis.

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