1. Fish Oil
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which the body converts into anti-inflammatory chemicals. You can find it in cold-water fatty fish, such as mackerel, salmon, herring, tuna, halibut, and cod.
A Mediterranean diet, which prioritizes oily fish, has been shown to help control psoriatic arthritis disease activity, when combined with exercise.
But more research is needed to confirm that fish oil reduces inflammation and stiffness, according to Dr. Qureshi.
Another caveat: If you’re on blood thinners, know that fish oil can also thin your blood.
Some doctors recommend prescription fish oil supplements to their patients with psoriatic arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation says, with an optimal dose of at least 1,000 milligrams (mg) a day.
When shopping for OTC supplements, the foundation suggests looking for those labeled “high potency.”
2. Curcumin
Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, has been shown to relieve symptoms of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory form of arthritis, as is PsA) because of its anti-inflammatory effects, according to a research review.
However, the authors note that larger clinical studies are needed to validate these results.
Curcumin from food sources is poorly absorbed, which is why supplements can be helpful in order to derive the anti-inflammatory benefits.
But be aware that high doses can act as a blood thinner and may also cause stomach upset.
Talk with your healthcare provider about what dosage might be right for you.
3. Willow Bark
There’s some evidence that the bark of certain species of Salix trees — commonly known as willow — can ease inflammation and arthritis-related symptoms.
A meta-analysis of studies found “significant differences in pain reduction and improvement of health status” in people with arthritis when comparing study subjects who took willow bark to those taking a placebo.
Study authors note, however, that additional research is needed to confirm these results.
Salicin, willow bark’s active ingredient, can reduce the production of pain-inducing chemicals in the nerves, Qureshi says. It’s available over the counter in tablet form. While generally safe, components in willow bark may interact with beta-blockers and diuretics (decreasing the effect of these drugs). Willow bark can also increase bleeding in people with bleeding disorders, and it should be used with caution by anyone already taking NSAIDS or blood thinners.
Check with your doctor before taking it.
4. Probiotics
Probiotics are friendly bacteria found in supplement form and in fermented foods such as yogurt. Increasingly, there’s thought to be a relationship between gut health and psoriatic arthritis. Research shows that the gut microbiota — the makeup of the microorganisms in the gut — of people with PsA differs significantly from healthy control subjects, potentially contributing to systemic inflammation by affecting the intestinal barrier and heightening the immune system’s response.
While there isn’t much data on the specific effect of probiotics in people with PsA, some research has found that probiotic use positively affects the course of psoriasis.
And a review of research has found that probiotics “immediately activate anti-inflammatory mechanisms” in the body.
When choosing a probiotic supplement, check the label to make sure it’s been third-party tested, which means an independent organization has evaluated the supplement and verified its quality and manufacturing process.
5. Boswellia
More commonly known as Indian frankincense, Boswellia has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on some conditions, including arthritis.
A study found that people with osteoarthritis who took supplements containing Boswellia extract reported less pain and stiffness in their knees than those who took a placebo. While data on taking Boswellia specifically for psoriatic arthritis is lacking, research has found that Boswellia inhibits inflammation in several different ways.
Note that Boswellia taken orally can increase your risk of bleeding if you’re on blood thinners.
6. Vitamin D
There is a correlation between psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and low vitamin D levels, according to research.
While researchers are still looking for conclusive evidence that low levels of vitamin D may trigger or exacerbate the severity of psoriatic arthritis, Qureshi suggests asking your doctor to test your vitamin D levels. Depending on the results, you may want to discuss whether taking vitamin D supplements could ease your symptoms.
Good food sources of vitamin D include salmon and fortified foods such as milk, but it’s difficult to get the vitamin D you need solely from food. This is where supplements can help. Just be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting a supplement to make sure you’re taking the right dose.
The Takeaway
- Supplements that have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect may help relieve symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
- Supplements should be incorporated as a complementary approach to your medical treatment for psoriatic arthritis.
- Look for supplements that have been third-party tested for purity, quality, and safety.
- If you’re considering taking a supplement, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to tailor a regimen that is safe and effective for you. You’ll want to discuss potential interactions and optimal dosages with your doctor.
