So many of us have arthritis and it is hard to decide the correct medication to use. Some, have decided to try an alternative method in using natural supplements.

About 10 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, an often-painful condition that causes the cushioning cartilage between bones to wear away. Many people are trying natural supplements to help with their relief. The forms of arthritis that we most commonly think of when referring to arthritic symptoms are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. However, we can also include conditions such as fibromyalgia, lupus, Lyme disease, psoriatic arthritis, Reiter抯 syndrome, Sj鰃ren抯 syndrome, and ankylosing spondylitis.

If you believe you many have arthritis the earlier a diagnosis is made and treatment started, the better chance you have of living comfortably with it. Early treatment can often mean less joint damage and less pain. Avoid excess stress on your joints. Staying in shape and at the correct weight for your stature will definitely help. Exercise helps lessen pain, increases range of movement, reduces fatigue and helps you feel better overall. Start a walking regime and be sure to follow the exercises your physician recommends for you.

There are many natural supplements available on the market today that may help the arthritic patient with pain relief and possibly even help repair cartilage damage. Below are some natural supplements that you may find valuable in your research to find pain relief for your symptoms. Before trying supplements do some research first. Find out about all you can about the supplement you are thinking of buying. What are the side effects, if any? Will it interact with your current medication? By all means, Talk to your doctor. He knows more about your condition then you do. If you experience any bad side effects let him know immediately.

BOVINE CARTILAGE: It is the ground cartilage of cow and usually comes from the trachea or windpipe. It is an anti-inflammatory agent, believed to ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

BROMELAIN  MOTHER NATURE: It is an enzyme found in pineapple juice that breaks down protein and decreases pain and swelling of RA and OA and increase mobility.

CAT'S CLAW MOTHER NATURE: It comes from the dried root bark of a woody vine that grows in the Amazon rain forests in Peru. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used for treating knee OA.

DEVIL'S CLAW: Is a traditional herbal plant used in South Africa and Namibia. It is supposed to relieve pain and inflammation.

DHEA:  MOTHER NATURE It is an androgen steroid hormone naturally produced in the body and is supposed to control lupus.

FEVERFEW  MOTHER NATURE: Is fresh or dried leaves of the feverfew plant, which grows in Europe and decreases pain and inflammation.

FISH OIL: Comes from oil from cold-water fish such as mackerel, salmon, herring, tuna, halibut and cod liver. It fights inflammation, lessens fatigue and reduces morning stiffness. Treats RA, lupus, psoriasis, depression and Raynaud's syndrome. DHA is important for brain function and may inhibit RA development.

FLAX OIL MOTHER NATURE: Comes from seed of the flax plant, primarily composed of omega-3 fatty acids. This oil eases the symptoms of RA, lupus and Raynaud's syndrome. It also lubricates joints and lessen stiffness and joint pain.

GINGER  MOTHER NATURE: Comes from the dried or fresh root of the ginger plant. It decreases joint pain and reduce inflammation in people with OA and RA.

GLUCOSAMINE MOTHER NATURE: It is the major component of joint cartilage. Supplements are derived from the shells of shellfish such as shrimp, lobster and crab. It relieves OA pain and improves joint mobility.

GREEN TEA: It is the leaf buds and young leaves of the tea plant; native to Southeast Asia and is suppose to fight inflammation.

FRANKINCENSE: Comes from the Gum resin from the bark of the Oswellia tree found in India, Northern Africa and the Middle East. Reduces inflammation and treat RA, OA and bursitis symptoms.

MSM: It is an organic sulfur compound found naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, animals and humans.  It reduces pain and inflammation.

TURMERIC: It is a yellow-colored powder ground from the roots of the lily-like turmeric plant. It is a common ingredient in curry powder. The turmeric plant grows in India and Indonesia and is related to the ginger family. It reduces pain, inflammation and stiffness related to RA and OA and treats bursitis.

So, please do your research and find the supplements that will help you conquer or control your arthritis.