10 Ways Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects the Body Although often mistaken for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects approximately 1.3 million Americans.

by Tammy Worth

Although often mistaken for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is an autoimmune disease that

affects approximately 1.3 million Americans.

Along with joint pain and swelling, about four out of 10 people with RA have related problems in

other body parts, says Eric Matteson, MD, a consultant rheumatologist at the Mayo Clinic, in

Rochester, Minn.

RA can decrease life expectancy, but “with modern therapies, we are seeing less rheumatoid disease

outside of the joints, and patients are living longer,” he says.

Following are ways in which RA affects the body and what you can do about it.

Joints

What happens: Rheumatoid arthritis often starts in the small joints of the hands and feet but can

progress to other parts of the body. Pain is often worse in the morning and is sometimes

symmetrical (you have it in both hands, for example).

Heart

What happens: People with RA have twice the risk of having a heart problem as those without it, according to Dr. Matteson.

The condition creates a chronic, low-grade inflammation that damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart disease, and heart failure, he says.

RA can also cause the pericardium, the sac-like structure around the heart, to become inflamed. This complication can produce sharp chest pain and fever, and if left untreated, can lead to thickening and scarring of the pericardium.

Lungs

What happens: Up to 10% of RA patients develop serious lung problems. The most common conditions are inflammation in the lungs' lining (pleurisy), which causes pain when breathing; scarring of the tissue in the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis); and an increased chance

of emphysema, even in nonsmokers.

What helps: The best treatments are those that reduce the underlying inflammation.

Mood

What happens: People with chronic diseases, including RA, are more likely to experience depression or other mood disorders—it's a common and understandable occurrence, Dr. Matteson says.

Chronic inflammation is also associated with abnormalities of neurotransmitters and hormones that can affect how a person feels, he adds.

What helps: If people are depressed or have significant mood changes, antidepressants herbs can be used to treat the symptoms.

Blood vessels

What happens: Vasculitis occurs when blood vessels become inflamed narrowed and blood flow is reduced. Dr. Matteson says this can block blood flow in areas like the arms, legs, and nerves. Vasculitis can sometimes lead to coronary artery disease, he adds.

What helps: If blood vessels narrow significantly, patients may need to take in parsley, a cup a day will revitalise the veins and arteries

Nerves

What happens: Some RA patients get peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage, that causes a burning and numbness in the feet and hands. Also, when blood vessels become inflamed, the nerves don't have an adequate blood supply, which can result in further nerve damage.

What helps: The best approach is to reduce the underlying inflammation.

Eyes

What happens: Inflammation can also occur in various parts of the eye—a "devastating complication that can cause blindness," Dr. Matteson says. Problems occur in the eye's iris (uveitis), the white of the eye (scleritis), and the membrane covering the white part (episcleritis). Symptoms include blurred vision, pain, redness, and light sensitivity. Inflammation can also increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts.

What helps: marijuana is recognised as an excellent treatment for glaucoma.

Skin

What happens: If there is inflammation in the blood vessels going to the skin, it can create rashes, skin ulcers, and nodules or skin bumps, especially on the hands, feet, and elbows. Matteson says the bumps may come and go, and physicians don't know what causes them.

What helps: balms and lotions of herbal base..

Wrists

What happens: Inflammation in the joints pushes on the nerve that runs from the forearm to the wrist and causes carpal tunnel syndrome. People with carpal tunnel usually feel numbness, tingling, weakness, and eventually sharp pain in the arm.

What helps: Treating the underlying inflammation, resting or immobilizing the sore wrist with a splint, and applying cool packs.

Spleen

What happens: Some people with RA get Felty's syndrome, a condition in which the spleen becomes enlarged and the white blood cell count drops, making them more susceptible to infections. But because RA can be controlled relatively well, Dr. Matteson says this complication is unusual, affecting less than 1% of RA patients.

What helps: Treatment of the underlying RA condition, boost immune sysem, there are many herbs (garlic and ginger) that will help.

AND THEN……

Connect

Having a chronic illness can be isolating.

But being open with your family and friends about your condition so you feel comfortable asking for

help when you need it—or just having a shoulder to cry on—can make a big difference in how you

feel, both physically and mentally.

There are also online and real-life support groups where you can meet other people with RA and

share coping strategies.

Rest

One of the most important things for you to do if you have rheumatoid arthritis is not to overdo it.

When you need a rest, take it. Pushing yourself too hard can only make fatigue worse.

RA Facts

(http://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/ultimate-guide-herbs-vitamins-

supplements#ThunderGodVine0 )

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects one or more small joints of

the hands, wrists, and feet. Flare-ups come and go, and the disease and worsening symptoms

progress over time. As the disease progresses, pain, stiffness, and swollen joints intensify, often

making mobility and daily life difficult.

But more people are turning towards natural remedies, including simple lifestyle changes such as

eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties, getting adequate sleep, practicing relaxation

techniques, and exercising regularly. In addition, complimentary therapies, such as topical creams,

fish oil supplements, and certain plant oils are being used to provide temporary pain relief and ease

stiffness and inflammation.

Research on the efficacy of natural treatments is often mixed, and some herbal remedies can have

serious side effects, particularly thunder god vine.

Read on to discover some of the herbs and supplements being used to combat RA pain, and work

with your doctor to find the right treatment combination for you.

Native to Asia, Andrographis paniculata, better known as king of

bitters, is a plant mentioned in Chinese medicine as early as 260

BC. The herbaceous plant is widely cultivated for its anti-

inflammatory, anti-viral, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties,

and it has been used in traditional medicine to treat upper

respiratory infections, infectious diseases, and fevers (National

Institutes of Health, 1999).

The plant has been purported to treat cold & flu, cancer, HIV, and

inflammation, but scientific research is inconclusive. One report

notes that when taken orally three times a day over 14 weeks,

patients reported significant improvement in swollen joints and

mobility. (Burgos,Hancke,et al. 2009).

The herbal remedy can be found most readily in tablet form and side effectsinclude headaches,

fatigue, nausea, allergic reactions, diarrhea, and change in taste.

Borago officinalis, also known as starflower, is an herb that has

been used as a medicinal for thousands of years. Greek and Celtic

cultures used borage to lift spirits, while later the English used the

oil to flavor wine in order to boost the courage of soldiers.

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid and the

active ingredient in borage oil, which is produced from the plant’s

seeds.

Some studies suggest that GLA may be effective at relieving joint

pain and stiffness, and at times has reduced the need for NSAID

medication. Taken in capsule form, it may reduce joint tenderness and

inflammation. Side effects include headache and constipation. Talk to your doctor before taking the

supplement.

Native to India and Pakistan, the scrubby tree Boswellia serrata

possesses a long history of medicinal use as an anti-inflammatory. Also

known as Indian frankincense, the bark produces a sticky resin found to

contain anti-inflammatory properties. Boswellic acids are thought to

interfere with leukotrienes, which cause inflammation in the body. The

herbal remedy is primarily available in capsule form or as a topical

cream. Study results of the plant’s effectiveness are inconclusive.

The tropical pineapple plant contains the active enzyme

bromelain. The plant has been used for centuries in Central and

South America to treat both inflammation and indigestion. While

its primary use has been to reduce inflammation caused by

infection, research has been conducted to test its effectiveness on arthritis pain.

The University of Maryland Medical Centerreports that studies show possibilities for easing

inflammation associated with osteoarthritis (OA). Anyone with pineapple allergies or sensitivity to

wheat, celery, carrot, fennel, grass, or cypress pollen should avoid taking bromelain.

Calcium is critical to maintaining bone density. Many RA medications can contribute to bone loss,

and inactivity from inflammation and pain can further deteriorate bone health. A calcium-rich diet

along with a supplement can be an important part of treatment. Dark green, leafy vegetables, low-

fat dairy products, and calcium-fortified beverages should all be part of a daily diet for RA patients.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) and the National

Institute of Health (NIH) recommend a 1,000-milligram supplement for all adults under 50, and 1,200

mgs for women over 50 and men over 70.

The cayenne pepper has a long history of medicinal use as a digestive aid, but is used more widely

today to treat pain. Peppers contain an active substance called capsaicin. Topical creams of capsaicin

may be applied to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains associated with arthritis.

According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, capsaicin cream has been confirmed as a moderately

helpful pain reliever for OA and soft tissue pain. Astudy cited by NCIB substantiates the effects of the

treatment as a topical remedy for mild pain relief.

Cat’s claw originates in the South American rainforest. Used

by Peruvian tribes for over 2,000 years, it has only been

studied by the modern medical community since the 1970s.

The plant’s anti-inflammatory properties have been

investigated for its effectiveness in relieving joint pain,

swelling, and morning stiffness, although results have been

mixed.

A Bastyr University study concluded that cat’s claw displayed

effective pain relief when used in conjunction with

traditional prescription medications, while other studies are

inconclusive. Cat’s claw produces very few side effects, with

digestive upset as the primary complaint.

Celery seed has been used for thousands of years to treat everything from colds, digestion, and

arthritis, to conditions related to the liver and spleen. The herbal remedy is mainly used as a diuretic

today; it has gained some support as an effective treatment for arthritis and gout, but there haven’t

been any scientific studies that support the claims. Some animal studies have shown that celery root

extract may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure (University of Maryland Medical Center,

2013).

Chamomile is an ancient herbal remedy that has been used to

treat a wide range of ailments, including inflammation, insomnia,

rheumatic pain, and gastrointestinal disorders. The plant contains

spiroether, a known antispasmodic that may help to ease sore

muscles and joint pain. It also relaxes tension and promotes sleep

(Chevallier, 2001).

Many different preparations of chamomile have been used, from

its essential oils to herbal tea made from dried flowers and

leaves. When used as a tea, chamomile is praised for its anti-

inflammatory properties as well as sedative effects. Taken

internally, chamomile may be effective at healing sore or irritated

skin (Chevallier, 2001).

There is little clinical evidence, however, that supports chamomile as an effective anti-inflammatory

for arthritis relief.

Native to the Kalahari Desert, devil’s claw’s long tuberous

roots have been used in traditional African medicine for

centuries to treat multiple ailments, including digestive

disorders and infections. German agricultural engineer G.H.

Menhert is credited with bringing the herbal remedy to

Europe during World War I.

Root extracts of the plant contain the iridoid glycoside,

harpagoside, which has been found to be an effective

treatment of RA, OA, and tendonitis (RBG, Kew). Studied in

Europe, it showed substantial pain-relieving properties with

minimal side effects. (Warnock, 2007) However, NYU Langone Medical Center has reviewed studies

conducted with devil’s claw and determined inconclusive results of the herb’s effectiveness.

Omega-3 fatty acids, the primary ingredient found in fish oil, are healthy fats that your body needs

to perform a number of important functions. Fish high in omega-3 includes herring, mackerel, and

tuna.

There’s been substantial evidence that suggests omega-3 fatty acids may prevent chronic

inflammation and ease symptoms associated with arthritis pain. In one study, patients showed

significant improvement from baseline joint tenderness and duration of morning stiffness over 26 to

30 weeks. In some instances, omega-3 fatty acids may eliminate the need for continuous NSAIDSuse.

People who are taking anticoagulants should discuss using fish oil

supplements with their doctor.

Ginger has been used for thousands of years to treat everything

from colds, nausea, migraines, digestive disorders, and

hypertension. The fresh root is readily available in grocery stores

and can be brewed into tea. It can also be easily found in supplement form.

Although clinical studies report mixed results as an effective pain reliever, the Journal of Medicinal

Food gives evidence to support the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant role of ginger. A University of

Miami Medical School study found that after taking a ginger supplement twice daily for three

months, RA patients reported pain relief and improved joint functionality. However, research is

limited and the efficacy of ginger root extracts on RA symptoms is inconclusive.

Native to New Zealand, green-lipped mussel can be used as a nutritional supplement. It naturally

contains omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis.

Studies are inconclusive, however, providing mixed results on its effectiveness.Arthritis Research UK

claims the supplement has no effect on relieving RA pain, while a University of Michigan Health

System study provides support for reducing inflammation. According to NYU Langone Medical

Center, an additional benefit to taking green-lipped mussel, as opposed to traditional NSAIDs, is the

possible prevention of ulcers in the stomach.

People with seafood allergies should avoid this supplement.

Originally cultivated in China and India, the tea (made from

unfermented leaves) is the most widely consumed drink in the

world after water. Beyond being a tasty beverage, green tea is

a centuries-old herbal remedy, which traditionally has been

used as a diuretic to promote digestion and improve heart

health.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, green tea

contains a significant amount of antioxidants called polyphenols. These powerful antioxidants

possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may protect against autoimmune arthritis. One study

found that the predominant polyphenol found in green tea (EGCG) does inhibit joint damage and

inflammation associated with arthritis (Singh, 2010).

It is known to interact with some medications negatively, so always check with a doctor before

introducing green tea to your diet.

The bark of the South American evergreen tree has been traditionally

used to treat multiple ailments, including arthritis, fever, and

different cancers. Scientists have identified anti-inflammatory,

antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, but there have

been no human studies on its effect on arthritis pain.

Pau d'arco can be taken as a supplement pill, dried bark tea, or a

tincture made with alcohol. Taken in large amounts, Pau d'arco can

be toxic. It’s important to speak with your doctor before taking this

herbal remedy.

This plant-based flavonoid is responsible for giving many flowers, fruits, and vegetables their color.

Quercetin has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and may benefit those with RA.

Studies have shown that when patients adopted a vegan-based diet, high in uncooked berries, fruits,

vegetables, and nuts containing the antioxidant quercetin, they reported fewer symptoms. However,

there is no evidence that the reported effects were directly due to the antioxidants.

Besides being available in fresh produce, it can also be found in capsule form.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used Chinese foxglove for

thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma

and RA. As an adrenal tonic, it may be helpful in addressing some

symptoms of RA. Chinese foxglove is rich in amino acids and

vitamins A, B and C, and its anti-inflammatory properties may be

effective in reducing joint pain and swelling.

It is available in liquid form, or as a powder to be turned into a

tincture. There have been very few human studies validating the

remedy as a viable and safe treatment. Although it is listed inPharmacopoeia of the People’s

Republic of China, it is not covered in European Sale Lists (ESL), nor is it given FDA’s safe approval

rating (GRAS).

This Mediterranean shrub has been widely used as a food spice and fragrance in cosmetics. The

plant has been praised for its medicinal benefits for centuries, traditionally used to improve

memory, relieve muscle pain, and treat indigestion.

In lab studies, rosemary demonstrates antioxidant properties and when applied topically, it is

believed to reduce muscle pain. However, there is no scientific evidence that the topical cream

reduces arthritic pain.

Rosemary oil may be used as a topical application, and capsule supplements may be ingested,

although the University of Maryland Medical Centerrecommends the daily dose should not exceed

four to six grams of the dried herb.

Native to China, Japan, and Korea, this perennial vine has been

used in TCM for hundreds of years to treat autoimmune and

inflammatory diseases. Labstudies have demonstrated that

extracts of the root may effectively fight inflammation and have

anti-cancer effects.

Thunder god vine comes with the risk of serious side effects,

including diarrhea, upper respiratory infections, and skin rash—and can be poisonous if not

extracted from the root properly. The herb is not manufactured in the United States and availability

is limited.

One study, funded by NIAMS, concluded that there were significant anti-inflammatory benefits of

the vine, but further study is needed to assess potential risks.

Turmeric has been used as a medicinal in Ayurvedic and Chinese

herbal medicine for over four thousand years to treat a wide range of

ailments, including digestive and liver conditions.

Research has shown that turmeric may help reduce inflammation,

but there has been conflicting evidence and results are inconclusive.

Curcumin, the active chemical in turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant,

and evidence has shown that the substance helps to lower

inflammation.

Turmeric can be easily introduced through diet, or in a capsule or tincture.

Research has shown that low levels of vitamin D can contribute to the onset and progressive

symptoms of RA. According to information provided by Johns Hopkins, the vitamin significantly

contributes to joint and bone health. Vitamin D is “an active steroid hormone that binds to receptors

in a host of vulnerable tissues—including the joints affected by arthritis.”

Making sure you get outside in the sunshine may help, but is not substantial enough to provide the

body with its daily vitamin D requirement. A studyprovided by the NCBI also confirms that sufficient

vitamin D intake can inhibit the development of RA.

The bark of white willow (and other Salix species) has been used to treat inflammation for thousands

of years. In 500 BC, Hippocrates advised patients to chew on the tree’s bark to ease pain. Evidence

has shown that the active ingredient in willow, salicin, reduces the production of pain-inducing

chemicals in nerves; Salix species are credited as the natural source of aspirin.

Studies show inconclusive evidence of the benefits of this bark for RA patients. A slight reduction in

pain was noted in two UK trials, but conclusive results as to the bark’s efficacy have not been

substantiated.

As with aspirin, willow bark can interact with certain drugs, including anti-inflammatories and

anticoagulants. Additionally, willow bark can lead to stomach upset and an allergic reaction. Always

talk to your doctor before taking willow bark.

By Gooey Rabinski - Jun 9, 2015

In the United States, about one in ten people live with some form of arthritis. Its damage to these 30

million sufferers makes this disease the number one cause of disability.

Those who think the treatment of arthritis, especially the rheumatoid variety, with cannabis is new

age medicine should think again. As far back as 2,000 B.C., four thousand years ago, the Chinese

called cannabis a treatment that “undoes rheumatism.”

During the 19th century, cannabis tinctures were common on pharmacy shelves throughout North

America and administered as a pain killer (aspirin didn’t become common until the early part of the

20th century).

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and occurs

when a person’s cartilage simply wears away. It can affect the

knees, hips, lower back, hands, and neck. Osteoarthritis is

basically a sign of aging and quite common. Unfortunately, no

cure exists. Treatments like cannabis have been shown to reduce

swelling in the joints and relieve pain for osteoarthritis sufferers.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that

attacks the joints. Think of RA as a faulty immune system. The

disease can cause severe debilitation for sufferers of all ages, as well

as a slew of other immune system-related health problems.

There are two cannabinoids found in marijuana that have

especially profound efficacy for those with arthritis: CBD and

THC. CBD, or cannabidiol, is responsible for immune system

modulation, meaning it is helpful for an autoimmune condition

like rheumatoid arthritis. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol — and by

products of its metabolism — has been found to be anti-

inflammatory and analgesic (pain killing). THC is also known to

reduce the anxiety and depression that commonly accompany

severe diseases, especially those that affect one’s mobility.

The efficacy of cannabis for a wide variety of autoimmune and neurological conditions is the core

focus of the medical marijuana movement. However, the sheer number of arthritis sufferers makes

the development of new drugs or therapies targeted at this specific condition of special interest to a

variety of companies. One example is Cannabis Technologies, a company based in Vancouver that is

in the process of developing a new cannabinoid-based

therapy that will directly treat arthritis.

Cannabis is especially useful for helping arthritis

patients wean themselves off serious pharmaceutical

drugs that, in the long term, may cause more problems

than they solve. For patients who must continue with

pharmaceutical treatments, marijuana often eases the negative side effects of these drugs.

Cannabis is useful for people with RA and other chronic pain conditions because it alleviates pain,

reduces inflammation, and helps patients sleep. Loss of appetite is common among those who suffer

chronic pain. Cannabis therapy shows the promise of not only alleviating pain, but also stimulating

appetite and encouraging an otherwise ravaged body to at least nourish itself as it attempts to fight

a potentially deadly disease.

Arthritis, especially the life-altering RA type, is one of a long list of conditions found to be treatable

with cannabis. The utility of this medicinal herb becomes apparent when patients realize that they

can reduce or even eliminate a slew of pharmaceutical drugs — including their negative side effects.

If cannabis did nothing but reduce the pain associated with conditions like arthritis, it would be

worthy of further investigation as a valid medical treatment. Fortunately, its ability to reduce things

like anxiety, depression, and inflammation make it even more valuable.

_______________________________________

Although sativa strains are usually credited for being better pain relievers, some indica strains can

also provide relief from arthritis symptoms. Click this link to see which strains of cannabis rate best

for providing relief from arthritis pain.

photo credit: herbmuseum.ca