Dear Bob Liebert,

I have rheumatoid arthritis and am in search of something to relieve the pain. I've tried lots of anti-inflammatories but with no relief. Hydrocodone helps me to sleep at night but would like to have something to eliviate the pain and hopefully keep it under control. Thanks.

Lisa

Dear Friend,

I'll recommend a few formulas of ours to which other herbs can be added. The liquid extracts would be a good way to go for their relative potency as their effects can be seen relatively quickly if they do aid (from a couple days to a couple of weeks). The Inflammaid Formula has the anti-inflammatories Black Cohosh, Wild Yam and Prickly ash (which also aids circulation); also Meadowseet, which has both anti-inflammatory natural salicyn and aids digestion. Herbs such as those in our Nervaid; Valerian, Passion Flower, and Skullcap are nervines that can aid in chronic pain and help as sleep aids. I also use Maitake extract for immune system balance. Comfrey poultices or fomentations can be used externally (see our Herbal Liniment). Herbs, such as Dandelion Root, that aid the liver should be taken daily for a while.

You can buy these herbs and many more in the Formula and Single Herb sections of the Teeter Creek Herb website. Herbs that don't appear in the Formula or Single Herb lists can usually be requested in the "Message" section at the bottom of the order page.

The information expressed is the personal observations of Herbalist Bob Liebert based on his personal experience and his studies of folk and traditional herbalism. These observations are not meant to be a substitute for qualified medical diagnosis and treatment. Uses of many of the herbs have not been scientifically verified.