Natural Supplements for Joint & Inflammatory Support: A Guide to Traditional & Evidence-Based Remedies
Please note: the supplements discussed in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, including rheumatoid arthritis. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are taking prescribed medication or have an existing medical condition.
Living with joint discomfort and inflammatory conditions can significantly affect quality of life. Alongside conventional medical care, many people explore traditional herbal remedies and nutritional supplements as part of a broader wellness routine. At Elixir Health & Wellbeing, we stock a carefully selected range of products with a long heritage of use in herbal and nutritional practice.
Here, we explore some of the most well-regarded options available in our collection.
1. Devil’s Claw (A.Vogel Atrosan)
Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is one of the few herbal supplements to hold a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) licence in the UK — a mark of quality and safety assessed by the MHRA. A.Vogel’s Atrosan is traditionally used to relieve backache, rheumatic or muscular pain, and general joint stiffness.
The herb is sourced from the Kalahari region of southern Africa, where it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Unlike some anti-inflammatory approaches, Devil’s Claw is thought to work without blocking the body’s natural processes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a gentler option.
Suggested use: Follow the licensed dosage instructions on the pack. Not suitable during pregnancy.
2. Omega-3 Fish Oils
Omega-3 fatty acids — particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — are among the most extensively researched nutritional supplements. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function, and EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart (authorised EU/GB health claims).
High-strength options such as Wiley’s Wild Alaskan Peak EPA provide a concentrated dose of 750mg EPA per capsule from sustainably caught Alaskan fish. For those seeking a broader essential fatty acid profile, a Complete EFA blend combining Omega 3, 6, and 9 from fish, flaxseed, and starflower oils offers a well-rounded daily supplement.
Suggested use: 1 capsule daily with food. Choose molecularly distilled products to ensure purity from heavy metals.
3. Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is cold-pressed from the seeds of Oenothera biennis and is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an Omega-6 fatty acid. It has a long tradition of use in herbal practice for general wellbeing and skin health.
Our Natures Aid Evening Primrose Oil provides 1000mg per softgel with 8–10% GLA and natural source Vitamin E to support the stability of the oil.
Suggested use: 1–2 softgels daily with food.
4. Celery Seed
Celery seed (Apium graveolens) has a long history of use in traditional herbal practice. Bio-Health’s Celery Seed capsules provide 450mg of pure powdered celery seed per capsule, free from sugar, lactose, gluten, and yeast.
Suggested use: 1 capsule twice daily. Not to be taken during pregnancy.
5. Siberian Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a well-known adaptogenic herb traditionally used to support energy, vitality, and resilience. Solgar’s 520mg capsules are made from the root and root hairs of plants sourced from North-East Asia.
Suggested use: 1 capsule daily. Adaptogens are typically taken in cycles — consult a herbalist or healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
6. Mexican Wild Yam Cream
This rich topical cream contains 20% wild yam extract alongside botanical phytoestrogens including agnus castus, black cohosh, and dong quai, blended with aloe vera, Vitamin E, and sweet almond oil. It has a traditional history of use for general wellbeing and is applied directly to the skin.
Suggested use: Apply to soft skin areas as directed. Consult your GP if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking hormone-related medication.
A Holistic Approach to Joint Wellbeing
Supplements work best as part of a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, regular gentle movement, adequate rest, and ongoing dialogue with your healthcare team. If you are managing a diagnosed condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, please ensure any supplements you take are discussed with your rheumatologist or GP, particularly if you are on disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs) or biologics.
Explore our full Arthritis (Rheumatoid) supplement collection →
