Herbal washes, ointments, plasters and oils are also used if necessary. Acupuncture for pain relief is becoming increasingly popular. According to Chinese Medicine theory acupuncture is applied to specific points along the meridians to help unblock the blocked energy channels.
Bi-Qi is the most commonly used effective TCM formula to treat RA with the least adverse effects.
TwHF is an herbal remedy used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of swelling, inflammation and joint pain. The remedy comes from extracts of the Triptergium wilfordii plant, also known as the “thunder god vine.”
TCM and acupuncture treatment for Rheumatoid arthritis works on multiple levels. Acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation and stiffness in the joints. TCM treatment with herbs helps to improve and balance immune function. Acupuncture can also relieve emotional symptoms related to stress, fatigue, and depression.
Frankincense Resin (Ru Xiang) This TCM classic not only alleviates acute or chronic pain + trauma to the body, but it can also treat inflammatory diseases. Interestingly enough, this hardened, gum-like material comes from the trunk of the Boswellia carteri tree, which is native to India + Africa.
1. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids , which are abundant in fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, are among the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements. These supplements may help fight several types of inflammation, including vascular inflammation.
Various herbals and herbal formulas or extracts, such as Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction, Wu-Tou Tang, and extracts of the herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook, F., are proved to be beneficial for alleviating RA progression.
Methotrexate is usually the first medicine given for rheumatoid arthritis, often with another DMARD and a short course of steroids (corticosteroids) to relieve any pain. These may be combined with biological treatments.
Acupuncture is not a cure for RA, but it may provide some temporary relief of RA-related joint pain.
Turmeric. A golden spice that's long been used to lend color and flavor to foods, turmeric also has been used in ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for a variety of conditions, including arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders.
Acupuncture. Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body, usually by inserting thin needles through the skin.
Acupuncture and acupressure are both types of massage based in traditional Chinese medicine and can be good for people with arthritis, Bacharach says.
The dried rhizome of the perennial Drynaria fortunei is known as Gu Sui Bu. It has been assumed to be an effective bones healer in traditional Chinese medicine.
Commonly used arthritis medications include: NSAIDs . Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Examples include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve).
“The best natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is an anti-inflammatory diet,” says Dr. Rosian. “This diet typically is low in animal protein. You would eat more plant-based proteins, including legumes, nuts and seeds.”
Researchers think it's caused by a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors. Normally, your immune system protects your body from disease. With rheumatoid arthritis, something triggers your immune system to attack your joints. An infection, smoking or physical or emotional stress may be triggering.
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can be especially helpful for those with arthritis. This includes both degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) and inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, or others).
The newest drugs for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis are the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which are FDA approved under the brand names Rinvoq, Olumiant, and Xeljanz.
Celastrol, a Chinese herbal compound, controls autoimmune inflammation by altering the balance of pathogenic and regulatory T cells in the target organ.
Cangxitongbi capsule (CXTB), a Chinese herbal compound, is reported to have benefits in alleviating pain, protecting cartilage, and maintaining knee joint function.
Leflunomide (Arava®)
Its efficacy is similar to methotrexate in terms of signs and symptoms, and is a viable alternative to patients who have failed or are intolerant to methotrexate. Leflunomide has been demonstrated to slow radiographic progression.