The patients received 100 mg of Pynogenol daily for 3 months and had much less stiffness and were able to walk further without pain. The reduction of the anti-inflammatory medication could greatly reduce the side effects caused by this type of pain relief.
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by inflammation and degeneration of the protein substance called cartilage that acts as a cushion between the bones of joints. The loss of cartilage causes pain, and stiffness and limitation of movement in the joint as friction occurs between the bones.
Wear and tear from mechanical stress, excess weight on the bones and aging can cause the degeneration but as it is sometimes found in families a hereditary factor could be involved as well.
Osteoarthritis effects about 7 million people in the UK and more than 16 million in the USA with 10 million suffering with osteoarthritis of the knee.
It is often treated with non steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs which is associated with a number of side effects. A newer type of anti-inflammatory, known as COX-2 inhibitor, also has serious side effects as it blocks the enzyme that creates protective fatty acids in the body.
Pycnogenol that is extracted from French maritime pine tree bark, is a welcome natural remedy that been used for centuries which can calm down inflammation without side effects.
Other natural remedies such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin in doses of 1200-1500 mg daily can then be used to help repair the cartilage. They are often combined with other natural substances like MSM and boswelia. Studies have also shown that supplements of Omega 3 can also reduce inflammation.
Natural remedies work better when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Exercise is important to improve circulation to the joint although one of the effects of pine bark extract is to dilate (widen) blood vessels which helps with circulation.
Nutritional approaches include:
- A diet high in fruit and vegetables to supply antioxidants and repairing nutrients.
- Identification and avoidance of food sensitivities.
- Removal of nightshade family (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, eggplant (aubergine), tobacco) as they can inhibit repair of the cartilage.
- Avoidance of saturated, trans fats and hydrogenated fats found in many processed foods.
- Reduction of refined carbohydrates and sugar.
- Weight loss.
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