2025-12-22 15:22:30
An ancient Brazilian herb long used in traditional medicine could one day offer relief for millions suffering from painful arthritis.
Researchers studying Alternanthera littoralis – commonly known as Joseph’s Coat – found the plant significantly reduced pain, swelling and joint stiffness in laboratory tests on mice with osteoarthritis.
The findings raise hopes that the herb could eventually be developed into a new treatment for the condition, which affects around 10 million people in the UK and more than 33 million in the United States.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative “wear and tear” disease that occurs when cartilage protecting the ends of bones gradually breaks down.
This causes joints to become inflamed, stiff and painful, particularly in the knees, which account for more than half of all cases.
Surveys by Arthritis UK show that one in three sufferers experiences severe pain every day, often despite exercise, weight management and physiotherapy.
Current pain relief options are limited and frequently offer only short-term benefit. Joint replacement surgery can help in advanced cases, but waiting lists are long and recovery is demanding.
In the new study, researchers from the Federal University of Grande Dourados analysed the chemical makeup of Alternanthera littoralis to identify its active compounds.
They then tested its effects in mice with arthritis over a 28-day period, monitoring changes in inflammation, pain levels and organ health.
Writing in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the team reported that the plant demonstrated “significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-arthritic effects.”
They added: “In the experimental models, we observed reduced edema [swelling], improved joint parameters, and modulation of inflammatory mediators, suggesting antioxidant and tissue-protective actions.”
Blood and urine tests showed no obvious damage to vital organs, suggesting the extract was well tolerated. The findings also indicated that the herb may help protect joint tissue from further breakdown.
The researchers cautioned, however, that the work is still at an early stage.
They said: “Although these results are promising, the precise molecular mechanisms remain unclear and warrant further investigation.”
Alternanthera littoralis grows naturally along Brazil’s coastline and has traditionally been used to treat infections. Scientists say its long history of use makes it a particularly interesting candidate for further research.
While patients should not replace prescribed treatments with herbal remedies, experts say the study highlights the potential of plant-based compounds to complement existing therapies — and could one day offer a safer, more effective option for easing the daily burden of arthritis pain.
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