This anti-inflammatory plant is best for relieving osteoarthritis

It also relieves back pain.

Autumn unfortunately heralds the return of dampness and cold. It causes a decrease in muscle tone and often makes the joints more painful. A difficult moment to bear for the 10 million French affected by osteoarthritis. This chronic joint disease causes pain, stiffness and swelling. Several natural remedies are commonly used to relieve these symptoms, including physical activity, hot water bottles, and following an anti-inflammatory diet. You can also use herbal remedies to reduce osteoarthritis pain. One plant in particular is recommended by specialists.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic active ingredients (against pain), “this plant is effective in relieving joint pain, acute or chronic, especially arthritis”explains Dr. Carole Minker, doctor of pharmacy and pharmacognosy. A study published in 2007 validated these benefits in cases of acute and subacute inflammation. “The plant relieves pain and improves mobility in a number of musculoskeletal conditions with a beneficial effect on pro-inflammatory markers” confirms our interlocutor. Another study published in 2000 found that this herb was particularly effective in relieving osteoarthritis of the spine, hip and knee.

Have you discovered it? This is harpagophytum also called “Windhoek root” or “devil’s claw” because of the strange shape of its fruits, surrounded by hooks in the form of long claws. “It is a plant from the arid regions of southern Africa, the root of which is used for its medicinal properties” continues the specialist. “It is used for back pain, in the lower back and sacrum (in the lower back), in cases of degenerative joint diseases, tendinitis, headaches and menstrual pain.”

The plant is available at pharmacies. The best according to Dr. Minker is to use it in the form of powder capsules or extract dosed with harpagoside, or even in the form of liquid extract dosed with harpagoside. “There are also infusions and macerations, but they are recommended in case of digestive disorders and not for the joints because they are too diluted” naturopath Hélène Comlan told us. The use of harpagophytum is not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in case of stomach ulcers or gastritis.

Thanks to Dr. Carole Minker, doctor of pharmacy and pharmacognosy and author of the book “Le Petit Larousse de l’Herboristerie” published by Larousse.

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