Ayurvedic treatment

Ayurvedic treatment

Ayurveda and RA

Ayurveda is a traditional practice originating in India that involves a natural, holistic approach to treating medical conditions and may include a variety of methods to relieve symptoms. Some people may use ayurvedic treatment to address RA symptoms, although there is a lack of information on its effectiveness.

Ayurveda may include the use of herbs, supplements, dietary changes and exercise for RA symptom relief. Unfortunately, there is a lack of high-quality research to support the use of Ayurvedic treatments for RA. Less information is available about how supplements work, how they interact with other prescription medications, and if they are safe. For this reason, it is vital that people only purchase Ayurvedic supplements from a reputable practitioner. However, many of the dietary and exercise-related changes may be beneficial but it is also important to talk to your rheumatologist about the specific changes you are thinking about making.

Health Canada advises s that some  Ayurvedic medicinal products may contain high levels of heavy metals. Consuming excessive amounts of heavy metals may lead to serious health risks because they can accumulate in vital organs. It is important to read product labels to verify that health products have been authorized for sale by Health Canada. Authorized health products have an eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), Natural Product Number (NPN) or Homeopathic Drug Number (DIN-HM). Products that are authorized for sale can be found on Health Canada's Drug Product Database and Licensed Natural Health Product Database.

Learn more about Ayurveda at these links:

This information was reviewed in August 2020 with expert advice from:

Kim Arrey, BSc, RD
President, Kim Arrey Nutrition