Herbal remedies are popular alternative treatments for osteoarthritis. Herbal remedies are derived from the extracts of certain plants. Since herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years, you are likely to presume they are safe -- but think again. When considering whether or not herbal remedies are safe, the correct answer is you can't be sure. Herbal remedies are not subjected to the same quality assurance testing that is required for prescription medications, according to the American College of Rheumatology.

Probably the biggest concern is that herbal remedies can be toxic and can adversely interact with prescription drugs. It has also been discovered that the contents of many herbal remedies don't always match the ingredients on their label. You should not consider taking any herbal remedy until you talk to your doctor. Read more in Herbal Remedies for Osteoarthritis.

Related Resources:

• The Facts of Botanical Dietary Supplements
• What Dietary Supplements Are You Taking?
• The Lure of Unproven Arthritis Remedies: Wait and Investigate
• Dietary Supplements: An Alternative Treatment for Osteoarthritis
• Traditional and Alternative Treatments: Where Should the Paths Cross?

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• Join Us in Our Osteoarthritis Forum / Message Board

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