These highly-diluted natural remedies may include arnica,rhus tox,Bryonia, and others.
Individual homeopathic RA remedies target specific clusters of symptoms.
A homeopathic provider will select a treatment based on which joints are affected and how you describe your pain.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
This article discusses rheumatoid arthritis homeopathy treatments.
It explains the different remedies used to ease RA symptoms and how to find the right one for you.
However, homeopathic practitioners have several remedies they prescribe off-label to relieve common RA symptoms.
Antimonium Crudum
Antimonium crudumis a mixture of the elements antimony and sulfur.
As a homeopathic remedy, it is typically used to treat digestive issues.
Apis
Apis, also known asapis mellifica, is used by homeopathic practitioners to treat joint swelling.
Made from bee venom, apis is indicated when joints are red, inflamed, burning, or stinging.
However, more research is needed to understand how this compound works and its dosage.
Arnica
In homeopathy, arnica is indicated for RA when joints are tender to the touch.
Arnica is an anti-inflammatory agent that has been shown to lower markers of inflammation in laboratory studies.
When applied topically, arnica may reduce pain and bruising.
Bryonia
Bryoniais a vine.
The root is used in homeopathy to treat arthritic pain, particularly in the knees and elbows.
Homeopathic providers may use bryonia when joints are red, hot, swollen, and painful.
More specifically, it is indicated for tearing/throbbing pain and pain that worsens with movement.
However, so far, the research is limited to animal studies, and human trials are needed.
Homeopathic practitioners commonly prescribe causticum for nighttime pain that interferes with sleep.
In studies, causticum has been shown to relieve joint pain slightly better than acetaminophen.
Colchicum
Colchicumis used in homeopathy to relieve chronic joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Rhus Tox
Rhus tox comes from the poison ivy plant.
In laboratory research, rhus tox was shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
A few studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory properties of rhus toxicodendron, however, more human studies are needed.
Is homeopathy covered by insurance?
Check with your health insurance company first, since coverage can vary significantly from one plan to another.
What Is Homeopathy?
It is based on the theory of like cures like.
Homeopathic remedies are delivered as dissolvable tablets, topicals, or tinctures.
Today, they are mass-manufactured and widely available without a prescriptionand without expert guidance.
In fact, research shows a homeopathic consultation offers significant benefits for people with RA.
If youre considering trying homeopathic medicine for RA, see a certified homeopathic provider.
However, the medications are not without risks.
Homeopathic Aggravations
Sometimes, a homeopathic treatment will initially worsen symptoms before showing an improvement.
There isn’t much research to support the concept, though.
If you experience an increase in symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Drug Interactions
You should be able to take homeopathic medications alongside RA medications.
Homeopathic remedies that are sufficiently diluted are not known to interfere with any conventional prescription or over-the-counter drugs.
However, you should still talk to your healthcare provider before taking homeopathic treatments or other supplements.
As a result, there are concerns that labels may be inaccurate.
In addition, homeopathic products sometimes contain higher doses or ingredients other than those listed on the label.
Some homeopathic treatments may also contain heavy metals, like mercury or iron.
This can cause potentially serious adverse effects.
Unproven Treatment
Current research does not support the use of homeopathy to treat any medical condition.
While homeopathy is regulated by the FDA, no homeopathic treatments are approved for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
The benefits of homeopathic treatment may be due to theplacebo effect.
People often feel better when any treatment is administered, regardless of whether it contains active ingredients.
What’s more, taking unproven homeopathic remedies can lead to a delay in conventional treatment with effective medicines.
Homeopathic preparations are sold without a prescription.
However, for best results, consult a homeopathic provider.
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