By Christine Cheng (R. Ph) and Fred Cheng (R.Ph)
Having the ability to move around freely is quite the blessing. Of course, this requires a healthy system of joints and muscles. We often take this for granted until we’re hit with a condition that slows us down, such as arthritis, which will likely affect every one of us sometime in our lives. Don’t fret, though! There are numerous options to prevent and mend the damage due to arthritis, especially if you get started early. Keep in mind, too, that regular movement and exercise will better your symptoms.
The word “arthritis” means inflammation of the joint. There are two types of arthritis: osteo-arthritis (“OA”), and rheumatoid arthritis (“RA”). Most of the supplements available in Canada are geared towards OA, which is much more common and is, by far, the easier of the two to treat with over-the-counter (OTC) supplements.
The pain suffered by osteoarthritic patients is due to the rubbing of bone-on-bone as a result of a wearing-down of the protective cartilaginous surfaces of articulating joints. The most logical thing to do when you lose something is to replace it, right? This is where” glucosamine” and “condroitin” products come into play. They belong to a class of building blocks required to renew the lost cartilage. “MAORI MIRACLE” not only contains a high-grade extract of the New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel providing the building blocks, but also Collagen Type II, white willow bark, and Myristin for immune modulation, making it ideal also for rheumatoid patients. For optimal use of glucosamines, your body would also need a source of methyl-sulfonyl-methane (such as FLORA’s “MSM”) and a good antioxidant (such as “OXYGENICS”) to complete the chain. Combination products such as “RECOVERY” and “RECOVERY EXTRA STRENGTH” contain all three ingredients which make them very convenient, and guess what? They’re also available for your dogs, cats and horses! Literally everyone, young or old, can benefit from a such a joint-rebuilding regimen.
Some of the discomfort of osteoarthritis is due to the inflammation associated with the irritated joint. Hence, many natural herbs with aspirin- and ibuprofen-like effects have been used effectively to alleviate the swelling and pain. “CURAMIN” is one such anti-inflammatory combo. The curcumin in CURAMIN is derived from turmeric , often used as a spice, which also has anti-tumour and anti-oxidant effects. Furthermore, it contains d-Phenylalanine and boswellia resin. For a more concentrated form of curcumin, try CURAMED. We have seen great success with these supplements in patients looking to spice up their joints. SIERRASIL is a concoction of 14 natural minerals touted for its effective anti-inflammatory action. A very interesting, German-developed collection of enzymes called “WOBEMZYME N” works well in many cases where inflammation is chronic and severe. It may also benefit your joints, tendons, and immune system. Homeopathically, ZEEL has been a proven and very safe addition to the arsenal.
For a comprehensive look at the many classes of OTC’s available, we urge you to attend one of our in-store Arthritis Seminars, and check out the many community resources available (eg. The Arthritis Society at arthritis.ca). With the broad spectrum of supplements available to you, there is no need to sit back and fret about having osteoarthritis without putting up a fight. So, check out all the options available to spice-up your joints, get moving again, and, hence, spice-up your life.
Christine and Fred Cheng are a sister-brother pharmacist team at their unique family-owned and operated Pharmasave in Cloverdale, BC. They specialize in natural remedies and compounding for both human and veterinarian use. They would love to hear from you, contact them at 604-576-2888 or online HERE. Of course, before you begin any activity program or try any OTC supplementation, check with your physician and pharmacist.
