08/20/2019 / By Stephanie Diaz
The Brazilian ironwood, known natively as juca or pau-ferro, is grown in the Northeast Region of Brazil where it is commonly used as a treatment for illnesses such as diarrhea and cough. Studies suggest that ironwood leaves contain anti-inflammatory properties.
In a recent study, researchers from Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte and the Federal University of Pernambuco evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Brazilian ironwood (Libidibia ferrea) leaves in rats. They wanted to determine if these activities could reduce inflammation associated with arthritis.
The researchers fed rats by gavage with 100, 200, or 300 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of ironwood leaf extract and observed whether it has anti-inflammatory properties. They took fluid samples from the rats’ joints to test the levels of oxidative stress and determine the level of inflammation. Researchers also analyzed the extract’s polyphenol content to confirm the presence of antioxidants.
The results of the analysis confirmed the presence of antioxidants gallic acid and ellagic acid in the leaf extracts. Their other test results also revealed that the leaf extracts contain anti-inflammatory properties. Upon closer examination of the treated rats’ joint tissue, the researchers found the presence of neutrophils, which are white blood cells that fight inflammation.
Based on the results they gathered, the researchers concluded that ironwood leaves contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory activities that can relieve joint pain in arthritis patients. Their study was published in the journal of BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, which causes pain and discomfort. To date, there are more than 100 different types of arthritis, but the most commonly acquired is called rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when white blood cells mistakenly attack tissues surrounding the joints, causing inflammation. Although over-the-counter medicines are widely available, natural is still the best way to go. Here are a few tips on how to relieve arthritis pain. (Related: Arthritis – How to relieve the pain and heal naturally.)
To know more about natural treatments for arthritis, visit Cures.news.
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alternative medicine, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, arthritis cures, Brazilian ironwood, disease treatments, Ellagic acid, Gallic acid, herbal medicine, immune system, inflammation, joints, natural cures, natural medicine, oxidative stress, pain relief, remedies, research, rheumatoid arthritis, trees, vitamin D
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