By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 11, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Ankylosing Spondylitis
Herbal capsules for ankylosing spondylitis are a natural supplement designed to alleviate the symptoms of this chronic autoimmune disease.
These capsules contain a blend of herbal extracts that help reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and relieve pain in the spine and other affected areas. Examples of herbal capsules that have shown promise include turmeric, ginger, and willow bark, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
By taking these capsules regularly, patients with ankylosing spondylitis can experience improved flexibility, reduced stiffness, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to engage in daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for ankylosing spondylitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Curcuma longa
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Harpagophytum procumbens
- 4. Salix alba
- 5. Urtica dioica
- 6. Boswellia serrata
- 7. Withania somnifera
- 8. Corydalis yanhusuo
- 9. Pinus palustris
- 10. Yucca schidigera
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for ankylosing spondylitis?
- What ailments similar to ankylosing spondylitis are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation in the joints, which is a hallmark of ankylosing spondylitis. By reducing inflammation, curcumin helps to alleviate symptoms such as pain and stiffness, allowing for improved mobility and reduced disability.
Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to protect against oxidative stress and cell damage, further contributing to its therapeutic benefits in managing this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Curcumin: Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate pain and inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis, thereby promoting joint health and reducing symptoms.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: BDMC has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects, which may help reduce pain and inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part for Curcuma longa capsules due to their high curcumin content, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
- Roots: Roots are also used for their curcumin content and are often used in combination with rhyzomes to enhance their therapeutic effects.
- Seeds: While not as commonly used as rhyzomes and roots, seeds are sometimes used for their anti-inflammatory properties and are believed to have a synergistic effect when combined with rhyzomes and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Grind 1 teaspoon of curcuma longa powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of curcuma longa powder with 1/4 teaspoon of gum arabic powder.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil to the mixture and mix for 30 seconds.
- Fill a capsule machine with 0.25-0.5 grams of the mixture and seal the capsules.
- Label and store the capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
2. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called gingerol, which has been shown to reduce joint pain and inflammation.
Additionally, ginger has been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are chemicals that promote inflammation in the body.
By reducing inflammation and pain, ginger capsules can help alleviate symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis, such as stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility, allowing individuals to manage their condition more effectively.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-shogaol, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, including reduced inflammation and improved joint mobility.
- Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, such as curcumin, have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis, while also promoting joint health and reducing oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale contain a high amount of active compounds similar to rhizomes, making them another widely used part for capsules to treat ankylosing spondylitis.
- Barks: Although less common than rhizomes or roots, some studies suggest that the barks of Zingiber officinale may also be used in capsule form to treat ankylosing spondylitis due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest 50-100 grams of fresh zingiber officinale roots with a high gingerol content from well-maintained gardens.
- Dry the harvested roots in a clean environment at 35-40°c for 7-10 days to reduce moisture.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder to achieve optimal particle size.
- Mix the powdered ginger with a binding agent such as gelatin or cellulose in a 1:1 ratio by weight.
- Fill gelatin capsules with approximately 500-750 milligrams of the powdered ginger mixture and seal properly.
3. Harpagophytum procumbens
Devil's claw capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain harpagosides, which have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
These compounds help to reduce joint pain and stiffness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body. Additionally, devil's claw has been shown to improve joint mobility and flexibility, making it easier for individuals with ankylosing spondylitis to maintain a normal range of motion and perform daily activities without discomfort.
By addressing these symptoms, devil's claw capsules can help alleviate the discomfort associated with this chronic condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harpagoside: This iridoid glycoside helps with ankylosing spondylitis by reducing inflammation and pain through its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Procumbideside: This iridoid glycoside also helps with ankylosing spondylitis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to joint damage and inflammation.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds help with ankylosing spondylitis by reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of advanced glycosylation end-products (AGEs), which can contribute to joint damage and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of harpagoside, a key bioactive compound responsible for the plant's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Stems: The stems of Harpagophytum procumbens also contain harpagoside, although in smaller amounts compared to the roots and rhizomes, which makes them a supplementary source for ankylosing spondylitis treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest 500g of dried harpagophytum procumbens roots in late summer or early fall.
- Grind the roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mill.
- Mix 250g of the powder with 250g of tapioca starch to fill capsules.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filler.
- Store the capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
4. Salix alba
White willow capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin.
This ingredient effectively targets the inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis, which is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the spine and pelvis.
By reducing inflammation, white willow capsules can help alleviate symptoms such as stiffness, pain, and decreased mobility, allowing individuals with ankylosing spondylitis to experience improved joint flexibility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Salicin: A glycoside that acts as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Flavonoids: A group of plant compounds with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints affected by ankylosing spondylitis.
- Tannins: Compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation in the spine and joints affected by ankylosing spondylitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Barks: Used due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
- Leaves: Utilized for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
- Stems: Employed for its anti-arthritic properties, which can help alleviate joint pain and inflammation characteristic of ankylosing spondylitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest salix alba bark from mature trees with white or light gray bark for medicinal purposes carefully.
- Dry the harvested salix alba bark in a warm place with good air circulation for 2-3 weeks slowly.
- Grind the dried salix alba bark into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle thoroughly.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent such as gelatin or vegetable cellulose in a ratio of 1:1 for capsules.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture and seal them using a capsule filling machine quickly.
5. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation in the spine and joints, alleviating symptoms such as pain and stiffness.
The capsules also increase collagen production, which can help improve joint mobility and flexibility. Additionally, stinging nettle has been shown to suppress inflammatory cytokines, further reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
By addressing these underlying causes of ankylosing spondylitis, stinging nettle capsules provide a natural approach to managing the condition and improving overall quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Alkaloids: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ankylosing spondylitis, potentially alleviating symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants may help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development and progression of ankylosing spondylitis.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in flavonoids, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica contain high amounts of histamine-releasing compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are rich in glycosides and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help manage ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest urtica dioica leaves and stems in the spring or fall when the plant is at its peak potency.
- Dry the collected urtica dioica material in a single layer at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind 500 grams of dried urtica dioica into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mill.
- Mix 10 grams of the powdered urtica dioica with 90 grams of gelatin to create the capsule filling.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the urtica dioica and gelatin mixture and seal the capsules securely.
6. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the joints and spine.
This natural remedy can help alleviate symptoms such as stiffness, pain, and limited mobility associated with this chronic condition. Additionally, frankincense has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to joint damage and inflammation.
By taking frankincense capsules regularly, individuals with ankylosing spondylitis may experience relief from their symptoms and improved overall quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Boswellic acids: Specifically, the alpha- and beta-boswellic acids, help reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Terpenes: Terpenes, particularly acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid, help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines.
- Oleane triterpenes: Oleane triterpenes, including boswellic acid, help reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility in ankylosing spondylitis patients by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: They contain the highest concentration of boswellic acids, which are the active compounds responsible for its therapeutic effects.
- Rhyzomes: They are also rich in boswellic acids and are often used in combination with roots to enhance their benefits.
- Barks: They contain boswellic acids and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest 5 grams of dried boswellia serrata bark and roots from a trusted source.
- Grind 2 grams of the harvested herb into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix the ground powder with 2 grams of cornstarch and 1 gram of gelatin in a bowl.
- Fill a capsule machine with the mixture and seal 100 capsules in 10 minutes.
- Label and store the capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
7. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain adaptogenic properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as stiffness, pain, and fatigue.
The herb's ability to modulate the immune response also helps decrease cytokine production, which can contribute to joint damage. Additionally, ashwagandha's antioxidant properties protect against oxidative stress, reducing tissue damage and promoting overall joint health.
By addressing these underlying mechanisms, ashwagandha capsules may help improve quality of life and reduce the burden of ankylosing spondylitis on daily activities.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Withanolides: Withanolides, a type of steroid glycoside, help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in ankylosing spondylitis, thereby alleviating symptoms and promoting joint health.
- Alkaloids: Withaferin A, a key alkaloid in Withania somnifera, exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help suppress the immune system's abnormal response contributing to ankylosing spondylitis.
- Saponins: Withasaponins, a class of triterpenoid saponins, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, ultimately alleviating symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: The roots of Withania somnifera are widely used due to their high content of bioactive compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
- Leaves: The leaves are used as they contain a significant amount of withanolides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are utilized due to their high content of withanolides and other bioactive compounds, which may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of withania somnifera roots from matured plants at the end of the monsoon season.
- Clean the harvested roots by washing them thoroughly in water and then dry them with paper towels.
- Powder the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 gram of the powdered withania somnifera with 0.5 grams of tapioca starch or gelatin to form a uniform blend.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 grams of the uniform blend and seal them properly with a capsule sealer.
8. Corydalis yanhusuo
Yanhusuo capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because it contains a natural compound that effectively reduces inflammation in the joints.
This anti-inflammatory property helps to alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with ankylosing spondylitis, allowing patients to enjoy improved mobility and flexibility. Additionally, yanhusuo has been shown to promote cartilage regeneration, which can help to slow down the progression of joint damage caused by the condition.
As a result, herbal yanhusuo capsules have become a popular natural remedy for managing ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Corydalis yanhusuo capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids: These alkaloids, particularly tetrahydropalmatine and dehydrocorybulbine, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Corybulbine: This alkaloid has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities, which can help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response in ankylosing spondylitis.
- Dehydrocorybulbine: As a bioactive compound of Corydalis yanhusuo, DHCB has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects, which can help mitigate the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yanhusuo used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: The roots of Corydalis yanhusuo contain high levels of tetrahydropalmatine (THP), a compound believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used due to their high content of flavonoids and alkaloids, which may contribute to their therapeutic properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are used in traditional medicine, possibly due to their reported analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, although the exact mechanisms are not well understood.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yanhusuo for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Dry the herb corydalis yanhusuo in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind 30-60 grams of the dried herb into fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered herb with 2 parts of gelatin or starch to create a uniform blend.
- Fill empty gelatin or starch capsules with 0.5-1 gram of the blended herb mixture.
- Store the herbal corydalis yanhusuo capsules in an airtight container at room temperature.
9. Pinus palustris
Longleaf pine capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain a unique blend of natural compounds that work to reduce inflammation and improve flexibility in the spine.
The anti-inflammatory properties of longleaf pine, such as caryophyllene and terpenes, help to alleviate the chronic pain and stiffness associated with ankylosing spondylitis, allowing for greater range of motion and reduced discomfort.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in longleaf pine capsules may also help to protect against further damage to the joints and surrounding tissues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pinus palustris capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Pinyl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Syringin: A phenolic glycoside, syringin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect joints from damage and promote healing in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Taxifolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, taxifolin may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially alleviating symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of longleaf pine used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Seeds: They are used to make capsules for various health supplements due to their nutritional and medicinal properties.
- Barks: Barks are used in herbal medicine to make capsules for conditions such as fever and pain relief, due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make capsules for various health supplements, such as teas and tinctures, due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic longleaf pine for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Harvest fresh pinus palustris cones in late summer or early fall when they turn brown and open.
- Dry the cones thoroughly in a warm place protected from direct sunlight for 2 weeks.
- Remove the seeds from the cones and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris or contaminants.
- Fill a capsule machine with the cleaned seeds at a dosage of 500 milligrams per capsule.
- Seal the capsules by using a capsule machine and store them in a cool dark place.
10. Yucca schidigera
Mojave yucca capsules helps with ankylosing spondylitis because they contain a unique combination of bioactive compounds that work together to reduce inflammation and joint stiffness.
The plant's active ingredients, such as saponins and polyphenols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby alleviating symptoms like pain and morning stiffness associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
Additionally, Mojave yucca capsules may also help to improve flexibility and range of motion by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in affected joints.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Yucca schidigera capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Saponins: These glycosides help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators and modulating the immune response.
- Polyphenols: These antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help mitigate the chronic inflammation and joint damage characteristic of ankylosing spondylitis.
- Sterols: Sterols, such as beta-sitosterol, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and promote joint health in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mojave yucca used to make capsules for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Stems: They contain saponins, which are believed to help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Roots: They are a rich source of antioxidants and saponins, which may help in reducing inflammation and improving joint health.
- Leaves: They contain various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may contribute to their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mojave yucca for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Extract the roots of yucca schidigera and dry them in a well-ventilated area for several days.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 gram of the powdered root with 2 grams of a carrier such as tapioca starch for 2 minutes.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filling machine or a spoon for 5 minutes.
- Store the herbal yucca schidigera capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for ankylosing spondylitis?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with ankylosing spondylitis is Turmeric (Curcumin) and Boswellia, often referred to as Indian frankincense.
These two herbs have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Turmeric's Curcumin helps reduce joint inflammation and stiffness, while Boswellia's sesquiterpenes alleviate pain and swelling. Ashwagandha is also a beneficial addition as it helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation, which is essential for managing chronic pain.
This trio can work synergistically to alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
What ailments similar to ankylosing spondylitis are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to ankylosing spondylitis that are treated with herbal capsules are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
These conditions, characterized by joint pain and inflammation, can be managed with herbal supplements such as Turmeric/Curcumin, Ginger, Boswellia, Willow Bark, and Ashwagandha.
These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and stiffness, promoting joint health and well-being.