What to know about ankylosing spondylitis before treating it with medicinal herbs

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the spine and other joints, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Neglecting the condition can lead to bone fusion and loss of flexibility. The root cause is unclear, but genetics, immune system dysregulation, and environmental factors are contributing factors. Medicinal herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and boswellia have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms, but consult with a healthcare professional before using them.

Turmeric's active compound curcumin is particularly effective in reducing inflammation and pain.

This article explains in detail what ankylosing spondylitis is, how it affects your life and what are its causes. Then, it lists what medicinal herbs to use to relieve this problem and how to prepare these herbs to get the best results. Lastly, it revals what other natural remedies to use in conjunction with herbal medicine to aid with this problem.

What is ankylosing spondylitis and how it affects your life?

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic and progressive autoimmune disease that affects the spine and other joints, leading to severe pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

It is characterized by the inflammation of the spinal joints, which can cause the vertebrae to fuse together, leading to a loss of flexibility and range of motion. People with AS often experience chronic back pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can make everyday activities extremely challenging.

For instance, simple tasks like walking, bending, or even getting out of bed can become excruciatingly painful. Additionally, AS can also affect other areas of the body, such as the hips, knees, and ankles, causing further mobility limitations. For example, a person with AS may struggle to climb stairs, participate in sports, or even engage in household chores, leading to significant restrictions on their daily life.

Furthermore, AS can also have a significant impact on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation and frustration.

What are the main causes of ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic and debilitating autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the spine, although other joints and organs can also be impacted.

The condition causes inflammation and pain in the spinal joints, leading to a gradual fusion of the vertebrae, which can result in a loss of flexibility and mobility. As a result, individuals with ankylosing spondylitis may experience severe back pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion, making everyday activities, such as getting dressed, bathing, or even walking, extremely challenging.

Additionally, the condition can also lead to fatigue, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues, further exacerbating the quality of life. Simple tasks like tying shoelaces, using a computer, or even getting out of bed can become Herculean efforts, as the constant pain and stiffness make it difficult to perform even the most mundane tasks.

In severe cases, ankylosing spondylitis can also lead to bowel obstruction, heart problems, and eye inflammation, making it a significant concern for those affected.

What are the best medicinal herbs for ankylosing spondylitis?

The best medicinal herbs for ankylosing spondylitis are those that reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote flexibility.

Peppermint oil can help relax muscles and reduce stiffness, while ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate pain and swelling. Purple coneflower's active compound, parthenolide, may help slow disease progression.

Licorice root reduces inflammation and soothes the digestive system, while dandelion root promotes digestion and reduces inflammation in the gut.

The most effective medicinal herbs that help with ankylosing spondylitis are listed below.

• Peppermint: Reduces inflammation and soothes joint pain.
• Ginger: Anti-inflammatory compounds reduce pain and stiffness.
• Purple coneflower: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce pain and inflammation.
• Licorice: Anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation and pain in the joints.
• Dandelion: Anti-inflammatory compounds and vitamins reduce inflammation and pain.
• St John's wort: Reduces inflammation and pain, improves mood.
• Feverfew: Anti-inflammatory compounds reduce pain and inflammation.
• Valerian: Relaxes muscles and reduces stress, improving symptoms.
• Ashwagandha: Reduces inflammation and stress, improving pain and stiffness.

What are the most effective herbal preparations for ankylosing spondylitis?

The most effective herbal preparations for ankylosing spondylitis are those that provide anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and immune-modulating properties.

Teas are beneficial for reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which is essential for managing chronic pain and stiffness. Decoctions, which are more concentrated than teas, can help to reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of joint damage.

Tinctures, which are highly concentrated extracts, can be taken internally to reduce pain and inflammation, and applied topically to ease muscle spasms and promote circulation. Capsules or tablets can provide a convenient and sustained release of therapeutic compounds, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Ointments and topical preparations can be applied directly to the affected joints to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness, and promote flexibility and range of motion.

The most used herbal preparations that help with ankylosing spondylitis are listed below.

• Capsules: Filled with herbs like turmeric, ginger, and boswellia, can provide a convenient and easily absorbable way to get the benefits of these herbs.
• Ointments: Topical application of ointments containing herbs like cayenne pepper or arnica can help reduce pain and inflammation in specific areas.
• Salves: Similar to ointments, but often thicker and more moisturizing, can be used to reduce pain and inflammation in specific areas.
• Compresses: Applying a warm compress infused with herbs like willow bark or ginger can help reduce pain and stiffness.
• Teas: Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, or licorice root can help soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
• Decoctions: A liquid extract of herbs like turmeric, ginger, or boswellia, can be consumed to help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Tinctures: Liquid extracts of herbs like valerian root or passionflower, can be consumed to help improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety.
• Syrups: Sweet and palatable liquid extracts of herbs like licorice root or slippery elm, can be used to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
• Creams: Topical application of creams containing herbs like aloe vera or arnica can help reduce pain and inflammation in specific areas.
• Tablets: Filled with herbs like turmeric, ginger, or boswellia, can provide a convenient and easily absorbable way to get the benefits of these herbs.

What precautions to take when using herbal remedies for ankylosing spondylitis?

When considering herbal remedies for ankylosing spondylitis, it is essential to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before use.

Some herbs may interact with medications or exacerbate symptoms, while others may have unknown effects on the condition. For example, turmeric and ginger, commonly used for their anti-inflammatory properties, may increase bleeding risk when taken with blood thinners.

Similarly, St. John's Wort, often used to manage pain and inflammation, may interfere with certain medications or worsen symptoms in some individuals. Furthermore, herbal remedies may not be regulated by the FDA, which means quality control and efficacy standards are not guaranteed.

Patients should carefully research the recommended dosage, potential interactions, and any known side effects of a particular herb before incorporating it into their treatment plan.

The most important precautions to take when using herbal remedies for ankylosing spondylitis are listed below.

• Consult carefully before using herbal remedies, ensuring you discuss any potential interactions with your healthcare provider
• Research rigorously to identify reputable sources and ensure the herbs are backed by scientific evidence
• Start slowly when introducing new herbs or supplements to monitor for adverse effects
• Monitor closely for allergic reactions or intolerance to any new herbal remedy
• Be cautious when combining multiple herbal remedies, as interactions can occur
• Report promptly any changes in symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider
• Keep track of the dosages and timing of all herbal remedies taken, including supplements and medications
• Consider seeking guidance from a licensed herbalist or naturopathic practitioner
• Avoid using herbal remedies that have not been studied scientifically for ankylosing spondylitis
• Follow the recommended dosage guidelines for each herbal remedy and do not exceed them