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New research suggests that a traditional Brazilian medicinal herb may hold promise for providing relief to millions of arthritis sufferers worldwide.
The herb, known as alternanthera littoralis or Joseph’s Coat, has been shown to significantly reduce inflammation, swelling, and joint pain in laboratory studies. These promising results suggest that the plant could one day be developed into a novel treatment for osteoarthritis, which affects approximately 10 million people in the UK and 33 million in the United States.
Osteoarthritis, commonly referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of bones deteriorates. This leads to painful, stiff, and swollen joints as the bones begin to rub against one another.
The knee is the joint most frequently impacted by osteoarthritis, accounting for over half of all cases. Surveys indicate that a third of those affected endure severe pain on a daily basis.
While current treatment strategies emphasize exercise, weight management, and physiotherapy, these methods often fall short of providing sufficient relief for many patients.
Painkillers are commonly prescribed, but their effects are often temporary and limited, leaving numerous individuals struggling to cope with persistent pain.
In the new study, carried out by researchers at the Federal University of Grande Dourados in Brazil, scientists analysed the chemical compounds found in alternanthera littoralis before testing its effects in mice with arthritis, The Mail reports.
Over a 28-day period, the animals were closely monitored, with blood and urine samples taken to assess any impact on major organs and joint health.
The results, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, showed reduced joint swelling, improved movement and changes in inflammatory markers linked to pain.
Researchers said the plant demonstrated “significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-arthritic effects”, as well as signs of antioxidant and tissue-protective action.
The herb grows naturally along Brazil’s coastal regions and has long been used in traditional medicine to treat bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections.
Until now, however, there has been little scientific evidence to support its use for arthritis.
While the findings are promising, the researchers stressed that further studies are essential before the herb could be recommended for human use.
They said more work is needed to identify the precise active compounds involved and to carry out rigorous safety testing.
