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Herbal therapy for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
1Institute of Health & Community Studies, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth House, Bournemouth University, 17 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK, BH1 3LG. clittle@bournemouth.ac.uk
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|May 2, 2001
Summary
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) shows potential benefits for rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. However, more research is needed to confirm optimal dosage and treatment duration for herbal therapies.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
- Herbal Medicine
Background:
- Complementary and alternative therapies are increasingly used by individuals with chronic conditions.
- Herbal medicine (phytotherapy) is one such therapy explored for rheumatoid arthritis management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of herbal treatments for rheumatoid arthritis.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases (1966-2000) for randomized trials of herbal interventions in rheumatoid arthritis.
- Studies were selected based on predefined criteria, with two independent reviewers assessing eligibility and methodological quality.
- Data extraction was performed independently by the same reviewers.
Main Results:
- Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria, with seven focusing on gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) versus placebo.
- GLA studies indicated some clinical improvements, though variable methodology hindered definitive conclusions.
- Better quality studies suggested potential reductions in pain, morning stiffness, and joint tenderness, with no serious side effects reported except for one intervention.
Conclusions:
- Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) demonstrates potential therapeutic benefits for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Further research is necessary to determine optimal GLA dosage and treatment duration.
- Individual studies on other herbal interventions remain inconclusive.