Gamma-Linolenic Acid for Arthritis

Every day, millions of people the world over fight a daily battle against arthritis. These are people of all ages, men, women and even children, who are challenged by more than 100 different types of the disease. And, while the battle can be long and certainly painful, there are new weapons available to make the fight a little bit easier.

Most people think of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis when they consider the painful and debilitating condition called 'arthritis'. Fortunately, the average arthritis patient now has access to more treatment options than ever before.

Drug Treatments

NSAIDs are the most common class of drug therapies prescribed by doctors today. These NSAIDS are used because of their anti-inflammatory properties. They are also non-steroidal; so many doctors consider them to be safer alternatives than other drug therapy options. In cases where patients suffer with severe localized pain, cortisone shots may also be prescribed.

Alternative Lifestyle Choices

A healthy lifestyle certainly has positive effects on your overall quality of life. That's why doctors will suggest that people with arthritis alter some of their day-to-day lifestyle management choices. Living well with arthritis is so much easier when you enjoy regular physical activity. Strength training and other weight-bearing exercises are widely recommended. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, can also be beneficial. Your ability to keep arthritis under control also has a lot to do with following a smart diet and maintaining a healthy weight.

Gamma-Linolenic Acids

Natural therapies, such as Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), are now being used by people with arthritis. These natural alternatives are used as complimentary treatments along with more traditional medical options. Gamma-Linolenic Acid is a form of omega-6 fatty acid that can be derived from the seeds of specific plants.

There has been much excitement within the medical world over the health benefits derived from GLAs, and there is new speculation that these 'wonder acids' can have beneficial effects for some arthritis sufferers. Some of the more widely known GLAs are derived from the seeds of the black currant, borage and evening primrose. These plants have long been used as natural remedies to treat a variety of ailments, and now the GLAs derived from these plants are being used to alleviate the inflammation often associated with arthritis.

Here is the latest medical indication of how GLAs can help counteract many of the most painful effects of living with arthritis. In 2000, the Cochrane Collaboration reported the results after examining seven studies of GLA plants, including the popular borage, evening primrose, and black currant. Researchers studied the oils derived from these plants, and how they could be used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Unfortunately, the studies were inconclusive and the researchers were not able to prove the true efficacy of GLA plants and oils. However, some medical researchers still believe that there is some kind of link between GLAs and the potential for relief of arthritic pain, morning joint stiffness, overall discomfort and tenderness.

Even though most GLAs and their native plants enjoy a respectable, long-standing record as safe and effective herbs, there are nevertheless certain risks with the consumption of these herbs in any form. Many herbalists and health experts warn that many GLAs and their plants should not be taken along with prescription medications. Furthermore, some GLAs can actually worsen an underlying medical condition. Researchers have indicated that there are specific negative effects caused by certain GLA plants.

For instance, studies have shown that some borage seed oil preparations contain ingredients called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) that can cause serious harm to the liver, and exacerbate the symptoms of liver disease. Problems have been linked to the consumption of evening primrose oil when combined with phenothiazine drugs. Moreover, many herbal remedies are actually potent drugs that may cause strong side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, intestinal gas and bloating.

Researchers continue to find new and better treatments for arthritis. Gamma-Linolenic Acid is one such option that is still under scrutiny in the medical field. Education is often your best weapon, so do your own research. Learn all that you can about the many treatment options that are available to help you with the fight against arthritis.

Article Source: http://www.health-fitness-for-all.com

Essayist Kenneth Surr contributes to a variety of web magazines, on alternative health and senior health topics.

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