Some supplements may help manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include cat’s claw, fish oil, and ginger.

Doctors may recommend prescription medications for rheumatoid arthritis. If a person wishes to incorporate supplements into their treatment plan, they can speak with their doctor to discuss which types of supplements may be best for them.

In most cases, more research is necessary to determine the benefits of supplements on rheumatoid arthritis.

Read on to learn more about supplements that may help manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

The anti-inflammatory properties of the woody vine cat’s claw may help with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Cat’s claw is also known as Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis.

Some small controlled trials have shown that cat’s claw may help relieve pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, some studies have been inconclusive.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health further points out that there is no conclusive evidence that cat’s claw can help treat or manage any health condition.

Cat’s claw can also increase symptoms of autoimmune conditions, which means it may actually worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in some cases.

The polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may help reduce inflammation.

A 2020 review of studies found that omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce rheumatoid arthritis disease activity. This may result in a reduction in joint tenderness and stiffness.

More research is necessary to determine the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

If a person wishes to increase their intake of omega-3 fatty acids, they can do so with fish oil supplements or foods. Foods providing an adequate amount of omega-3s include:

However, it is important to avoid taking too much omega-3. If a person gets a lot from their diet, then they may not benefit from taking supplements. They can talk with their doctor about how much omega-3 to aim for.

Omega-3s can also increase the risk of bleeding in people who take anticoagulants such as warfarin. It is best to contact a doctor for advice before taking fish oil supplements alongside any other medications.

Learn more about omega-3 and fish oil.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a flowering plant available in various sources, including capsules, tea, and foods.

The Arthritis Foundation explains that there have been few studies looking into the benefits of ginger on rheumatoid arthritis.

However, a 2020 review looked at randomized controlled trials that assessed the possible effects of dietary and supplemental ginger on rheumatoid arthritis. Review authors found that some trials concluded positive effects, while others showed minimal or no improvement in disease activity.

It is possible that ginger may reduce C-reactive protein, which is an inflammation marker. Because rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition, this means that ginger may help reduce joint inflammation, though more research is necessary.

Learn more about ginger for arthritis pain.

Curcumin is a chemical in turmeric. It gives turmeric its bright yellow color.

The Arthritis Foundation explains that curcumin may block the same inflammation-promoting enzyme as celecoxib, which is a COX-2 inhibitor medication.

In a 2023 study, researchers looked at publications covering 539 people with rheumatoid arthritis. Results suggest that curcumin supplements can help reduce inflammation and symptoms in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

However, researchers also state that large-sample randomized controlled trials are necessary.

Supplements are generally safe as long as a person takes a safe dosage, according to the Arthritis Foundation. However, side effects and allergic reactions may still happen.

Some supplements may also interact with medications, so it is best to speak with a doctor before taking any supplements.

Which supplement is best for rheumatoid arthritis?

There is no single best supplement for rheumatoid arthritis. Currently, there is not enough research to determine whether supplements can effectively treat rheumatoid arthritis, but cat’s claw, polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, and curcumin may help reduce inflammation.

What is the best natural anti-inflammatory for rheumatoid arthritis?

Omega-3 fatty acids, cat’s claw, curcumin, and ginger may help manage inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-inflammatory foods include fatty fish, fruits, vegetables, and olive oil.

Which vitamin deficiency causes rheumatoid arthritis?

There is no evidence that a vitamin deficiency causes rheumatoid arthritis. However, many people with rheumatoid arthritis have low levels of vitamin D.

Although more research is necessary, some studies suggest that cat’s claw, omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, and curcumin may help manage inflammation and reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

It is best to speak with a doctor before taking supplements. The doctor can advise on whether they recommend taking supplements as part of a treatment plan for rheumatoid arthritis as well as whether the supplements are likely to interact with any medications the individual is taking.