Natural supplements including herbs and enzymes for joint pain and inflammation

Joint pain and osteoarthritis (OA) are common conditions that typically arise with age. Cartilage tissue is a substance found between two bones, within a joint to help support joint flexibility. However, with repetitive use of the joint and aging in general, this cartilage tissue wears down and the joint structures suffer. People often complain of pain, stiffness, reduced mobility and limitations on their quality of life.

While conventional therapies (such as pain medications, non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs or physical therapy) remain front line, there is growing interest in complementary approaches. Among these, three natural supplements stand out for joint-related aches and pains: Boswellia serrata, Bromelain and enzymes-based therapies. 

Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, is a tree that produces a resin, also known as frankincense, that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for inflammatory conditions. Although there are many inflammatory conditions, those associated with joint inflammation is where Boswellia has been primarily useful. Research has examined its various compounds that naturally occur within the resin, particularly “boswellic acids” and one type of boswellic acid, 3 acetyl 11 keto β boswellic acid (AKBBA), has demonstrated potential benefits in osteoarthritis and joint pain. Boswellic acids help with joint pain and osteoarthritis by reducing the activity of chemical messengers in the body that promote inflammation. This reduction results in less pain, swelling and inflammation within a joint, allowing an individual to keep moving with ease and less pain. 

Many natural products marketed for joint pain contain Boswellia but do not necessarily state the quantity of AKBBA compound, when searching for a Boswellia product, you want to make sure the label lists the amount of AKBBA, differentiating it from all the other types of boswellic acids that may be present in this ingredient. 

Bromelain 

Bromelain is a type of proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple stem. It helps digest proteins but also can be helpful to address pain and inflammation. This unique enzyme works to reduce the activity of chemical messengers in the body that encourage inflammation. So, by reducing their activity, inflammation and pain are reduced. 

It is important to note that simply consuming pineapple fruit may not provide the same effect as a capsule of pineapple-derived bromelain. The concentration and quantity are often difficult to obtain from consuming the fruit alone.

Other enzymes such as amylase, protease and others may also help support joint related complaints. Enzymes such as these may help contribute to muscle recovery, allowing individuals to recovery faster after bouts of physical activity.  

Conclusion

For individuals experiencing joint pain or osteoarthritis, integrating Boswellia serrata extracts and enzyme based therapies, including bromelain and more offers a promising complementary strategy. These natural ingredients can help with reducing pain, improving function, modulating inflammation and possibly influencing cartilage health.

Always discuss any new supplement with a qualified healthcare provider, especially if you are on medications or have underlying health conditions.