Our Top Rated Supplements for Joint Pain
Here, we'll outline some of the highest-rated joint supplements that we've found to get the most consistently positive feedback.
1. Curcumin
Curcumin, the main active ingredient in the spice turmeric, has been shown to reduce painful symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (1). This pain-relieving action is thought to be largely down to its anti-inflammatory properties which have further been found to reduce swelling & stiffness. Curcumin has many reported benefits and uses making it incredibly versatile and useful for many ailments.
We recommend: Solgar Full Spectrum Curcumin
Highly bioavailable, with much greater absorbency than many of its counterparts, Solgar Curcumin is one of our top-selling products. Just one capsule daily can help alleviate inflammation, aches, and pains.
2. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
MSM is a natural, sulfur-containing compound that is found in small quantities in certain foods. It has become a popular arthritis remedy with people seeking to ease both joint pains and muscle aches. Readily absorbed by the body, MSM is often combined with glucosamine to achieve a reduction in joint pain, swelling & stiffness. Inflammation is one of the main causes of cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritis sufferers and so achieving a balanced inflammation response is key in dealing with joint pain. Glucosamine is another popular remedy for joint problems with several studies suggesting it can provide relief for arthritic symptoms in addition to reducing collagen breakdown (2). Unfortunately, though, it often needs to be taken for 4-6 months before noticeable effects are felt. Taking MSM alongside glucosamine can help you to achieve quicker results by reducing inflammation more rapidly.
We recommend: Lambert's Glucosamine Complete
Lambert's has expertly created this balanced and well-rounded formula providing not only Glucosamine and MSM but also Quercetin, Rosehip, Ginger, and Chondroitin. Just three tablets daily provide a complete joint support formula.
3. Devil's Claw
Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a rare herb, found only in the wild Kalahari desert. Also used for backache and muscular aches and pains, Devil’s Claw is often used to relieve rheumatic and arthritic pain. One study looking at the effectiveness of Devil’s Claw on lower back, hip, and knee pain (3) found that arthritis sufferers who were given a devil's claw supplement over eight weeks saw up to a 54% improvement in their pain levels.
We recommend A. Vogel Devil's Claw
Topical Relief
A well-chosen balm or gel can provide invaluable instantaneous relief. Be Active Balm is one of our favorites (A. Vogel Arnica Gel is another)
Be Active Balm is a blend of soothing menthol, camphor, and capsicum designed to have a warming effect on joints and muscles. Apply regularly to feel a reduction in pain and stiffness.
Herbal Teas
Herbal Teas, though not usually enough on their own, can support and enhance your joint-care program.
Green Tea
Rich in antioxidants, Green Tea is thought to impact immune response which can be particularly beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Research also suggests that a compound within green tea can slow down cartilage degradation (4) which is one of the causes of joint pain in arthritis. There are many benefits to drinking green tea, but if you suffer from arthritis or joint aches or pains, then it is certainly worth considering.
Licorice Tea
Licorice tea can further support your joint-care program. Licorice is a natural anti-inflammatory agent with active agents that are thought to reduce pain.
Nettle Tea
Nettle Tea can produce a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, making it an excellent choice for those who suffer from joint pain or arthritis. Naturally nutrient-rich, with water-reduction properties, nettles are believed to have several positive health effects.
References
1. https://trialsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13063-019-3327-2
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17257091/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12046857/
4. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2007-04/foas-gtc041907.php