{"id":3847,"date":"2025-12-22T15:22:31","date_gmt":"2025-12-22T15:22:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bangbizarre.com\/index.php\/2025\/12\/22\/ancient-herb-could-tackle-crippling-arthritis\/"},"modified":"2025-12-22T15:22:32","modified_gmt":"2025-12-22T15:22:32","slug":"ancient-herb-could-tackle-crippling-arthritis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bangbizarre.com\/index.php\/2025\/12\/22\/ancient-herb-could-tackle-crippling-arthritis\/","title":{"rendered":"Ancient herb could tackle crippling arthritis"},"content":{"rendered":"

2025-12-22 15:22:30<\/b>
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An ancient Brazilian herb long used in traditional medicine could one day offer relief for millions suffering from painful arthritis.

\nResearchers studying Alternanthera littoralis – commonly known as Joseph\u2019s Coat – found the plant significantly reduced pain, swelling and joint stiffness in laboratory tests on mice with osteoarthritis.

\nThe 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.

\nOsteoarthritis is a degenerative \u201cwear and tear\u201d disease that occurs when cartilage protecting the ends of bones gradually breaks down.

\nThis causes joints to become inflamed, stiff and painful, particularly in the knees, which account for more than half of all cases.

\nSurveys by Arthritis UK show that one in three sufferers experiences severe pain every day, often despite exercise, weight management and physiotherapy.

\nCurrent 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.

\nIn the new study, researchers from the Federal University of Grande Dourados analysed the chemical makeup of Alternanthera littoralis to identify its active compounds.

\nThey then tested its effects in mice with arthritis over a 28-day period, monitoring changes in inflammation, pain levels and organ health.

\nWriting in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the team reported that the plant demonstrated “significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-arthritic effects.”

\nThey added: “In the experimental models, we observed reduced edema [swelling], improved joint parameters, and modulation of inflammatory mediators, suggesting antioxidant and tissue-protective actions.”

\nBlood 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.

\nThe researchers cautioned, however, that the work is still at an early stage.

\nThey said: “Although these results are promising, the precise molecular mechanisms remain unclear and warrant further investigation.”

\nAlternanthera littoralis grows naturally along Brazil\u2019s 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.

\nWhile patients should not replace prescribed treatments with herbal remedies, experts say the study highlights the potential of plant-based compounds to complement existing therapies \u2014 and could one day offer a safer, more effective option for easing the daily burden of arthritis pain.
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