Plants used in Brazilian medicine have scientific potential to help people Arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Researchers tested Joseph coat (Alternanthera littoralis) in the lab and found it reduced swelling, protected joint tissue, and was safe at the doses used.
Joseph’s coat grows wild along the coast of Brazil. Local communities have traditionally used it to relieve inflammation, infections, and parasites. However, so far there is no solid scientific evidence showing its effectiveness or safety.
The new study was conducted by a team from universities across Brazil, including the Federal University of Grande Dourados, the State University of Campinas, and the State University of São Paulo. They published their findings in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Common spice may beat depression, boost sexual health, doctors say
Scientists first chemical composition The stems and leaves of plants that grow above ground. They prepared ethanol extracts. This means that alcohol was used to bring out the active compounds of the plant.
In a laboratory model of arthritis, this extract reduced visible swelling.
“In experimental models, we observed reduced edema, improved joint parameters, and modulation of inflammatory mediators, suggesting antioxidant and tissue protective effects,” said Ariel Cristina Arena, associate professor in the Department of Structural and Functional Biology at the Institute of Biological Sciences at UNESCO’s Botucatu Campus, in a press release.
It also affects inflammatory pathways and signs of oxidative stress, which can damage tissues during chronic inflammation.
Joints exposed to the extract had fewer signs of degeneration and better overall health than untreated controls.
The research team also conducted toxicity tests to confirm safety. At the doses tested, the plant extract did not cause any adverse effects in the laboratory animals used in the study, suggesting a promising safety profile.
Experimental treatment reduces knee arthritis pain without surgery or pills
If further studies confirm these results, the researchers say Joseph’s coat could serve as a source of new substances. plant-based anti-inflammatory treatments.
Although modern arthritis medications are effective, they often have side effects that limit their long-term use. The research team says natural compounds with fewer side effects could provide an alternative or complement to future treatments.
the study Because this study was conducted in animals rather than humans, the results of this study cannot be directly applied to arthritis patients.
Garlic extract rivals traditional mouthwash for dental hygiene in surprising new review
Because the human body processes compounds differently, treatments that work in laboratory models do not necessarily translate into safe and effective treatments for people.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
The study also focused on specific extracts prepared under controlled conditions. That means store-bought and homemade versions of the plant can vary widely in strength and safety.
Additionally, the study did not identify which specific compounds within the plant are responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects.
For more health stories, click here
Without this information, it is difficult to standardize doses or predict long-term outcomes.
Scientists note that further research is needed to isolate the active ingredient, test long-term safety, and eventually conduct clinical trials in humans.
