Rheumatoid arthritis natural remedies

Some people with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from natural remedies and a healthy lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore a broad range of natural remedies that you can try alongside medical treatment, including dietary changes, supplements, exercise and complementary therapies.

RA typically affects the hands, feet and wrists, often symmetrically on both sides of the body.² It can also cause more general symptoms such as fatigue, fever, sweating, loss of appetite, and weight loss. When symptoms become worse, it’s called a flare or flare-up.³ 

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but there are several known risk factors that may increase your chance of developing this condition. Women are two to three times more likely than men to get RA.³

Your doctor can prescribe medication to help tackle the inflammation that causes rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. You can also speak to them about trying natural remedies at home to complement your medical treatment.

An anti-inflammatory diet minimises your consumption of processed foods, refined grains, red meat, trans fats and foods high in sugar.⁶

If high-impact exercise – such as contact sports (like football) or running – consistently triggers a flare-up, try low-impact exercise instead. 

If your joints are stiff, aching or creaky, applying heat can increase the blood flow to the area, reducing joint stiffness. You can take a warm bath or use a hot water bottle in a cover or towel to ease stiff muscles and joints, especially in the morning when stiffness is common.

If your joint is inflamed, red or hot to the touch, using cold can help with the pain and swelling. A cold compress constricts the blood vessels and reduces the blood flow to the area, decreasing swelling and numbing the area. You can use an ice pack or bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel to protect the skin but don’t leave it on the joint for more than 20 minutes as it might damage your skin. Check your skin every five minutes and if it’s red or bright pink remove the ice pack or peas.³

Similarly, stress may worsen your symptoms. Mind-body practices like mindfulness, meditation and yoga can be of benefit if you have RA.²⁴

Eating a healthy, balanced diet, finding the right exercise regime, doing stress-busting activities, and trying complementary therapies may positively impact your overall health and well-being and potentially help with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. 

It’s important to note that these options shouldn’t replace your prescribed medications or other forms of medical treatment. If you’re interested in any of the natural remedies above, it’s always best to speak to your doctor to get personalised medical advice before trying anything new.