Dear Pharmacist, I am 60 years old, and now I'm told I have osteoarthritis. My doctor said that there is no known "cure." I need to know the best natural treatments. - O.W. Melbourne, Fla.
There isn't a quick magical fix for osteoarthritis, you have to treat the cause and it's not always easy to figure that out. Osteoarthritis has always been considered a "wear and tear" disease.
There are many prescription drugs that ease pain, such as Celebrex or Relafen. For the most severe cases, physical therapy, injections of cortisone and surgery may be options. These have their own risks. Let's talk about simple things!
Capsaicin - Commercial capsaicin products are sold nationwide in patch form, gel, cream and roll-on. You apply it externally, and with repeated applications, it helps block pain signals. Wash your hands after applications (or use gloves).
Astaxanthin - This protective antioxidant is best known for vision health, however, it suppresses COX 2 enzyme, prostaglandins, interleukins, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a). Simply put, astaxanthin helps painful situations that end in "itis" like arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, etc. You may need 6 to 12mg daily.
Glucosamine sulfate - You make this if you have healthy cartilage, but you can also supplement. Glucosamine may be helpful, but only if combined with other substances.
Ginger - A natural spice that has anti-inflammatory properties, also sold as a supplement. I eat this with sushi all the time, but you can buy it as a powdered spice, or fresh root in the produce section, and turn it into a tea. It reduces pain by blocking prostaglandins.
DMSO - This is used on race horses, externally. Many Internet sites sell it, and health food stores. People use it all the time for joint pain, including myself.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) - It is a natural sulfur compound related to DMSO, and it's been shown to improve pain symptoms, and although it is present in trace amounts in a variety of food, it is much more efficient to take a supplement.
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Column - Dear Pharmacist
Dear Pharmacist, I take a dozen antibiotics per year due to frequent infections. What else can I take?
Dear Pharmacist, I have neck pain, sciatica and headaches. I've tried prednisone, Celebrex, Ibuprofen, Vicodin, physical therapy, chiropractors, massage, reiki, acupuncture, prayer work, laser and two surgeries on my neck.
