Traditional Brazilian plant shows unexpected strength against arthritis

A plant used in Brazilian medicine has scientific potential to help people with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Researchers tested Joseph’s Coat (Alternanthera littoralis) in laboratory studies and found that it reduced swelling, protected joint tissue, and appeared safe at the doses used.

Joseph’s Coat grows naturally along the coast of Brazil. Local communities have traditionally used it to relieve inflammation, infections and parasites. However, until now there has been no solid scientific evidence to show that it works or is safe.

The new study was conducted by teams 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 SPECIAL CAN BEAT DEPRESSION AND INCREASE SEXUAL HEALTH, DOCTOR SAYS

The scientists first examined the chemical composition of the plant’s stems and leaves growing above ground. They prepared an ethanolic extract, that is, they used alcohol to extract the active compounds from the plant.

In laboratory arthritis models, this extract reduced visible swelling.

“In the experimental models, we observed reduction of edema, improvement of joint parameters and modulation of inflammatory mediators, which suggests antioxidant and protective actions of tissues,” Arielle Cristina Arena, associate professor of the Department of Structural and Functional Biology of the Institute of Biosciences of the Botucatu Campus of Unesp, said in a statement.

It also influenced inflammatory pathways and signs of oxidative stress, which can damage tissue during chronic inflammation.

Joints exposed to the extract showed fewer signs of degeneration and better overall health than untreated controls.

The research team also conducted toxicological tests to check safety. At the doses tested, the plant extract caused no harmful effects in the laboratory animals used in the study, suggesting a promising safety profile.

EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENT RELIEVES THE PAIN OF KNEE ARTHRITIS WITHOUT SURGERY OR PILLS

If further research confirms these results, researchers say Joseph’s Coat could be a source of new herbal anti-inflammatory treatments.

Modern arthritis medications can be effective, but they often have side effects that limit their long-term use. The team says that natural compounds with fewer side effects could offer alternatives or complements in future therapies.

The study was conducted in animals, not humans, so the findings cannot be directly applied to arthritis patients.

GARLIC EXTRACT RIVALS TRADITIONAL MOUTHWASH FOR DENTAL HYGIENE IN A SURPRISING NEW REVIEW

Human bodies process compounds differently, and treatments that work in laboratory models do not always translate into safe or effective therapies for people.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The study also focused on a specific extract prepared under controlled conditions, meaning that homemade or purchased versions of the plant could vary widely in potency and safety.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE News APP

Additionally, the research does not identify which specific plant compounds are responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Without this information, it is difficult to standardize doses or predict long-term outcomes.

Scientists note that more studies are needed to isolate the active ingredients, test long-term safety, and eventually conduct clinical trials in humans.

TRY OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ