The following selected ingredients are among those with evidence-based support for easing occasional aches and pains:
• Curcumin: Turmeric has been used as a spice and traditional medicine for thousands of years, it contains a compound called curcumin, which has, in more recent years, been studied for its anti-inflammatory benefits and effect on pain management associated with osteoarthritis. Curcuminoids inhibit expression of COX-2 enzymes.
• Boswellia: Also known as frankincense, this traditionally used ayurvedic herb is now being incorporated into formulas to manage inflammatory conditions. Boswellic acids have shown activity in inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes (WBCs) from arachidonic acid.
• Hops: The anti-inflammatory activity of certain hops fractions has shown potential in inhibiting the body’s natural response to inflammation and pain. Hops extract has been studied for COX-2 inhibition equivalent to ibuprofen but has significant COX-1 sparing activity, therefore representing a potential alternative for non-prescription anti-inflammation.
• Meadowsweet: This herb has been used traditionally for pain and inflammatory conditions. It contains natural salicylate derivatives and unlike salicin (in aspirin) is soothing to the digestive system.
• Glucosamine: Supplemental glucosamine has been found to be beneficial for cartilage repair, reducing pain and inflammation, and slowing the progression of osteoarthritis, either alone or with chondroitin sulfate. Glucosamine is a major component in cartilage, and is crucial for its construction and repair.
• Chondroitin: Whereas glucosamine is thought to promote the formation and repair of cartilage, chrondroitin is believed to promote water retention and elasticity in cartilage and inhibit enzymes that breakdown cartilage.
• Magnesium: This mineral is important in muscle relaxation and is frequently used to release muscular tension.
• California poppy: California poppy is a nervine, sedative, antispasmodic, and analgesic. It promotes relaxation and is used for anxiety, insomnia, and nervous tension. Its main alkaloid is californidine, which has demonstrated sedative effects, but is non-narcotic. California poppy is useful for pain relief for stomach cramps, bruised muscles, and toothache. It is considered safe in children for insomnia, waking in the night, and mild to moderate anxiety. Recent research shows it to work by activating benzodiazepine receptors in the nervous system.
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