Rheumatoid Arthritis
Supplements studied for rheumatoid arthritis.
Overview
Fish Oil (14 studies) has the most evidence for rheumatoid arthritis, with trials suggesting it may reduce pain, morning stiffness, and tender joint counts—often at high doses—though it does not prevent RA onset. Curcumin (8 studies) shows mixed but potentially modest symptom improvements when used alone or with standard treatments.
Collagen (2 studies) and Boron compounds (1 study) have limited positive signals in small trials. Potassium (1 study) via diet plus supplementation was associated with pain reduction. See the heatmap and evidence reviews below.
Effect graph
Relevant supplements
Relevant supplements sorted by DEX Score.
| Fish Oil | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| Potassium | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| Collagen | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| Curcumin | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Vitamin K | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Selenium | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Resveratrol | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Quercetin | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Nattokinase | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Milk Thistle | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Ginger | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Garlic | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Flaxseed | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Eucalyptus | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Boron | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Astaxanthin | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Ashwagandha | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Vitamin D | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Melatonin | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Reishi | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Panax Ginseng | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Flaxseed Oil | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Alpha-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
Studies
Find individual evidence reviews for supplements sorted by DEX Score.
23 supplements for , and rated at least stars. All purchase bands. No minimum star filter.
Fish OilView supplement →
Consider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking fish oil by mouth may help reduce pain and morning stiffness for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but does not seem to prevent RA on its own.
- Studies show fish oil alone or in combination with naproxen can make morning stiffness last for a shorter time and reduce the number of tender joints.
- Adding fish oil to RA medicines may also reduce the need for painkillers.
- Doses used in studies are often high, with some people taking up to 10 grams daily.
- Taking fish oil with vitamin D3 might lower the risk of RA, but more research is needed.
Browse 14 studies·2 meta-analyses
RCTVitamin D and marine omega 3 fatty acid supplementation and incident autoimmune disease: VITAL randomized controlled trial2022n=871
In the VITAL trial (25,871 adults, median 5.3 years), 1,000 mg/day marine omega-3 reduced confirmed autoimmune disease incidence by 18% (HR 0.82) versus placebo in prespecified analysis.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 1000 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 871
- Avg age
- ~67
RCTFish oil in recent onset rheumatoid arthritis: a randomised, double-blind controlled trial within algorithm-based drug use2015n=140
A double-blind RCT in early rheumatoid arthritis showing that high-dose fish oil improved clinical outcomes and reduced the need for triple DMARD therapy. A 12-month study of 140 patients with RA <12 months’ duration found that 10 mL/day fish oil (mean reported intake 3.7 g/EPA + DHA day exceeding the effective anti-inflammatory dose of at least 2.7 g/day) taken for 12 months with methotrexate (MTX), sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine was able to delay time to therapy failure and increase American College of Rheumatology (ACR) remission compared to control (10 mL/day Sunola). [10609][10610]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 months
- Dose
- 2.7 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 140
MetaA meta-analysis of the analgesic effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for inflammatory joint pain2007
A meta-analysis of 17 RCTs including patients with rheumatoid arthritis or joint pain secondary to IBD and dysmenorrhea found that supplementation of omega-3 (fish oil) for 3-4 months reduced patient reported joint pain, duration of morning stiffness, number of painful and tender joints, and non-selective NSAID consumption. No changes were found in physician assessed pain (SMD: -0.14; 95% CI: -0.49 to 0.22, p=0.45). [10611]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 3–4 months
- Population
- RA patients
RCTSupplementation of fish oil and olive oil in patients with rheumatoid arthritis2005
A 24-wk study of 43 rheumatoid arthritis patients administered patients one of three groups: 1) Placebo (soy oil) 2) Fish oil (3 g/day) 3) Fish oil + olive oil. Compared to placebo, those taking fish oil or fish oil + olive oil had a greater reduction in joint pain and improvements in function. Those taking fish oil + olive oil had even greater improvements in morning stiffness, global patient assessment and rheumatoid factor compared to only fish oil. [10612]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 24 weeks
- Dose
- 3 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Avg age
- 49±19
RCTEffects of high-dose fish oil on rheumatoid arthritis after stopping nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Clinical and immune correlates1995
A trial in RA patients discontinuing NSAIDs showing that high-dose fish oil improved clinical symptoms and modulated inflammatory markers. A study of 66 rheumatoid arthritis patients taking NSAIDs at baseline, found that 130 mg/kg/day ethyl ester omega-3 (8.45 g/day for a 65 kg person) + diclofenac led to significant improvements in morning stiffness duration, tender joints and physician’s evaluation of pain after 18 to 22 weeks. The decrease in number of tender joints remained significant at 8 weeks after discontinuing diclofenac with continued fish oil supplementation. [10614]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 8.45 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
MetaValidation of a meta-analysis: the effects of fish oil in rheumatoid arthritis1995n=395
A meta-analysis found that dietary fish oil supplementation for 3 months significantly reduced morning stiffness and tender joints compared to heterogeneous control oils. [10613]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 3 months
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 395
RCT[Fish oils and rheumatoid arthritis. A randomized and double-blind study]1994n=51
A randomized double-blind trial showing that fish oil supplementation reduced rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and improved clinical assessments. A 12-wk study of 51 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis found that 3.6 g/day omega-3 fatty acids led to small but significant improvements in morning stiffness and joint tenderness. [10615]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 3.6 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 51
RCTEffects of fish oil supplementation on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug requirement in patients with mild rheumatoid arthritis--a double-blind placebo controlled study1993
A double-blind placebo-controlled study showing that fish oil supplementation reduced the need for NSAIDs in mild rheumatoid arthritis. A 12-month study of 64 rheumatoid arthritis patients requiring NSAID therapy found that fish oil (MaxEPA) led to a significant reduction in NSAID usage when compared with placebo from month 3, without any deterioration in clinical RA measures. The reduction in NSAID usage was greatest at month 12. Subjects were instructed to gradually reduce NSAID usage on the condition that there was no worsening of symptoms. [10616]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 months
- Dose
- 2850 mg EPA + 1140 mg DHA/day
- Population
- RA patients
RCTDietary omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and naproxen treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis1992n=67
A controlled trial examining combination omega-3 supplementation with naproxen, showing additive symptom improvement in RA. A study of 67 rheumatoid arthritis patients found that fish oil and naproxen was able to reduce morning stiffness duration after 16 weeks. [10618]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 16 weeks
- Dose
- 7 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 67
RCTEffect of six months of fish oil supplementation in stable rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, controlled study1992n=43
A six-month double-blind controlled trial finding that fish oil improved joint tenderness and morning stiffness in stable RA. A study of 43 patients found that fish oil (10 g/day) reduced consumption of NSAIDs after 3 and 6 months, and global arthritic status at 3 months in physician’s assessment. The control patients experienced increased global arthritic activity at 6 months. There were no changes in duration of morning stiffness, patient reported pain or functional capacity. [10617]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 months
- Dose
- 10 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 43
RCT[Active rheumatoid arthritis: effect of dietary supplementation with omega-3 oils. A controlled double-blind trial]1991n=8
In 8 active rheumatoid arthritis patients over 12 weeks, EPA supplementation improved prehensile function versus 8 placebo controls, without other significant clinical changes or side effects.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 8
RCTDietary fish oil and olive oil supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical and immunologic effects1990n=49
A comparative trial showing fish oil produced greater improvements in RA symptoms and inflammatory markers than olive oil. A study of 49 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis assigned patients to one of three treatments: 1) Low-dose fish oil (27 mg/kg EPA and 18 mg/kg DHA) 2) High-dose fish oil (54 mg/kg EPA and 36 mg/kg DHA) 3) Placebo (Olive oil). It found a significant improvement in number of tender joints in the high-dose group (2) at 18 weeks (P=0.04) and in the low-dose group (1) at 24 weeks (P=0.05). Significant decreases in the number of swollen joints were noted in both the low-dose group (P=0003) and the high dose group (P=0.0001) by week 12. [10620]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 24 weeks
- Dose
- 27 mg/kg
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 49
RCTEffects of fish oil supplementation in rheumatoid arthritis1990n=16
A crossover study of 16 patients with rheumatoid arthritis found that addition of fish oil (2.04 g EPA + 1.32 g DHA) to existing treatment (including NSAIDs and other disease modifying drugs) reduced joint swelling and duration of early morning stiffness after 12 weeks compared to fractionated coconut oil placebo. [10621]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 2.04 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 16
Controlled trialFish-oil fatty acid supplementation in active rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blinded, controlled, crossover study1987n=40
A nonrandomised crossover study of 33 rheumatoid arthritis patients found that 14 weeks supplementation of fish oil (2.7 g EPA + 1.8 g DHA) improved mean time to onset of fatigue and decreased the number of tender joints by 3.5 (95% Cl, -6.0 to -1.0). [10622]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 14 weeks
- Dose
- 2.7 g EPA + 1.8 g DHA/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 40
CollagenView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- In a small 12-week study of children aged 8 to 14 with juvenile arthritis, most patients who took chicken type II collagen every day had much less joint pain and tenderness by the end of the study.
- In another study with adults who had severe rheumatoid arthritis, people taking chicken type II collagen had fewer swollen and tender joints than those taking a placebo, and a few even went into complete remission after three months.
Browse 2 studies
Clinical trialA pilot trial of oral type II collagen in the treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis1996n=10
In 10 children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, oral chicken type II collagen for 12 weeks reduced swollen joints by 61% and tender joints by 54% in 8 of 10 patients with no treatment-related adverse events.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Population
- Children with JRA
- Participants
- 10
- Ages
- 8–14
RCTEffects of oral administration of type II collagen on rheumatoid arthritis1993n=60
In 60 patients with severe active rheumatoid arthritis, chicken type II collagen for 3 months reduced swollen and tender joints versus placebo, with complete remission in 4 patients.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 3 months
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 60
PotassiumView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- A study of 172 people with rheumatoid arthritis looked at whether eating more potassium could help reduce joint pain.
- They were split into three groups: one group ate a potassium-rich vegetarian diet, another ate the same diet plus a potassium supplement, and the last group ate their usual diet.
- After 16 weeks, those who had both the potassium-rich diet and supplement reported the biggest drop in joint pain.
- People who took in 5 to 7.5 grams of potassium daily had less pain.
- The potassium was safe to take, with only mild side effects.
- This suggests eating more potassium might help reduce RA joint pain, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Browse 1 study
RCTAdjunct role of potassium-rich vegetarian diet and a novel potassium food supplement to improve pain in chronic rheumatoid arthritis on supervised standard care: a randomised controlled study2024n=155
In 172 rheumatoid arthritis patients, potassium-rich diet plus potassium supplement for 16 weeks reduced pain VAS −2.23 points at week 16 versus control (per-protocol analysis).
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 16 weeks
- Dose
- 10 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 155
CurcuminView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Some small studies suggest that taking curcumin, a natural compound found in turmeric, may slightly reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain and inflammation.
- When used alone or with regular treatments, curcumin might help improve overall joint comfort and inflammation levels.
- Results are mixed—some research shows it doesn’t change the number of painful or swollen joints.
- Studies have tested daily doses between 120 mg and 1200 mg for two weeks up to three months, but because the studies were small, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Browse 8 studies·3 meta-analyses
RCTThe efficacy of curcumin supplementation on serum total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, and disease activity in women with rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial2024n=44
An 8-wk study of 44 women with active rheumatoid arthritis found that 500 mg/day curcumin significantly reduced joint pain (-45 points on a Visual Analogue Scale of 0 to 100) when compared to placebo (-3.6 points). Curcumin reduced tender joint counts, swollen joint counts and disease activity score compared to placebo after 8 weeks (p < 0.001). [10226]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 500 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 44
MetaEffect of curcumin on rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis2023
A meta-analysis of 6 RCTs (539 rheumatoid arthritis patients) found curcumin significantly reduced ESR, DAS28, swollen joint count, and tender joint count compared with controls.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
RCTEfficacy and safety of curcumin in maintaining remission during disease-modifying antirheumatic drug withdrawal in rheumatoid arthritis at 52 weeks: a phase III double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial2023n=185
A study of 185 participants tapering off antirheumatic medication (~-25% per month) given 1 g/day curcumin + 5 mg piperine or placebo (twice per day) found no difference in remission rate after one year. [10227]
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 52 weeks
- Dose
- 1 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 185
MetaEfficacy and safety of dietary polyphenols in rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 47 randomized controlled trials2023n=3,852
A meta-analysis of 47 RCTs (3,852 rheumatoid arthritis patients) found dietary polyphenols—including curcumin—improved DAS28, CRP, ESR, and oxidative stress markers without increasing adverse events.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 3,852
MetaEfficacy and Safety of Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract in the Treatment of Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trial2022n=2,396
A meta-analysis of 29 RCTs (2,396 participants with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other arthritis types) found curcumin doses of 120–1500 mg/day for 4–36 weeks improved inflammation and pain.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4–36 weeks
- Dose
- 120–1500 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 2,396
RCTA Novel Highly Bioavailable Curcumin Formulation Improves Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Dose, Three-Arm, and Parallel-Group Study2017n=12
A 90-day study including 24 rheumatoid arthritis patients found that curcumin (500 – 1000 mg/day) improved C-reactive protein levels, visual analog scale, rheumatoid factor values, Disease Activity Score 28, American College of Rheumatology response and erythrocyte sedimentation rate compared to placebo. Curcumin supplementation at a dose as low as 250 mg twice/day led to significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects without adverse effects after 90 days. [10228]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 90 days
- Dose
- 1000 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 12
RCTA randomized, pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis2012n=45
A non-placebo controlled study of 38 patients assigned patients to either curcumin-only (500 mg), diclofenac sodium-only (50 mg) or curcumin (500 mg) + diclofenac sodium (50 mg). Curcumin was the most effective for: - Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28: Curcumin (-44.5%); Diclofenac Sodium (-42.1%); C+D (-44.4%) - Visual Analog Scale (VAS): Curcumin (-59.9%); Diclofenac Sodium (-49.94%); C+D (-55.62%) - C-reactive protein (CRP): Curcumin (-52%); Non Significant Diclofenac Sodium (+1.5%) & C+D (-26.9%) - % Reduction in tender and swollen joints (American College of Rheumatology Response Rate – where ACR20 = % of patients with 20% reduction in number of tender and swollen joints): Curcumin ACR20 (93%), ACR50 (73%) and ACR 70 (33%) Curcumin (500 mg) was more effective than diclofenac (50 mg) for improving Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28, Visual Analogue Scale & American College of Rheumatology (ACR) scores. A combination of curcumin and diclofenac was less effective than curcumin alone, even when using the same curcumin dose. [10229]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 500 mg
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 45
RCTPreliminary study on antirheumatic activity of curcumin (diferuloyl methane)1980
A preliminary 1980 study evaluated antirheumatic activity of curcumin (diferuloyl methane), but the available abstract provides no details on design, sample size, dose, or outcomes.
AshwagandhaView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if ashwagandha helps rheumatoid arthritis.
- One study found that taking ashwagandha powder followed by an Ayurvedic mixture improved symptoms in about half of men and more than half of women, but this study had no control group.
- Another study found that a supplement containing ashwagandha and other herbs did not improve arthritis symptoms better than a common arthritis medicine.
- The quality of these studies was limited, so more research is needed.
Browse 2 studies
RCTEvaluation of the efficacy and safety of a herbal formulation for rheumatoid arthritis - A non-inferiority randomized controlled trial2024n=70
In 70 rheumatoid arthritis patients, herbal Qurs-e-Mafasil including ashwagandha was comparable to celecoxib for efficacy in a clinical evaluation.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 70
- Ages
- 35–55
Clinical trialEfficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study2015n=86
In 86 rheumatoid arthritis patients, Ayurvedic ashwagandha powder plus Sidh Makardhwaj improved tender and swollen joint counts versus baseline, though the uncontrolled design limits inference.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 5 g 2×/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 86
- Ages
- 18–60
AstaxanthinView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if astaxanthin alone helps rheumatoid arthritis.
Browse 1 study
RCTAstaxanthin supplement improves clinical outcomes, quality of life, and inflammatory factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized clinical trial2025n=30
In 60 rheumatoid arthritis patients over 8 weeks, astaxanthin 20 mg/day reduced DAS-28, HAQ, ESR, and CRP versus placebo without changing IL-6.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 20 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 30
BoronView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Calcium fructoborate can help to improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
- Another type of boron-containing compound called sodium tetraborate is also helpful, however it is less effective than calcium fructoborate.
Browse 1 study
RCTThe adjuvant use of calcium fructoborate and borax with etanercept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Pilot study2016n=72
In 72 Iraqi RA patients on etanercept, adjuvant calcium fructoborate (220 mg/day) or sodium tetraborate (55 mg/day) for 60 days improved disease activity scores and lowered ESR, hsCRP, IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 60 days
- Dose
- 220 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 72
EucalyptusView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear if inhaling eucalyptus oil helps people with rheumatoid arthritis.
- In one small study, patients who used eucalyptus oil applied to pads on their clothing for 5 minutes, three times a day, over a month reported less pain and better quality of life than those who used a placebo.
- More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Browse 1 study
RCTThe effect of eucalyptus inhalation on pain and the quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis2022n=70
In 70 rheumatoid arthritis patients over 1 month, inhaling 1 mL eucalyptus oil three times daily reduced pain severity and improved quality-of-life scores versus placebo inhalation alongside routine treatment.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 1 month
- Dose
- 1 mL inhaled 3 times/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 70
- Ages
- 18–60
FlaxseedView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- In a small study of people with rheumatoid arthritis, adding ground flaxseed (30 grams per day) to either a regular or anti-inflammatory diet for 12 weeks improved joint symptoms and overall well-being.
- Participants reported less pain and better quality of life, especially in areas like energy and emotional health.
- However, because the study did not include a comparison group, it’s unclear how much of the benefit came directly from the flaxseed itself.
Browse 1 study
RCTThe effect of flaxseed with or without anti-inflammatory diet in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, a randomized controlled trial2021n=120
In a 12-week RCT of 120 rheumatoid arthritis patients, 30 g/day flaxseed with or without an anti-inflammatory diet improved DAS28, pain, and quality of life versus roasted wheat control.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 30 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 120
GarlicView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking garlic supplements (about 1000 mg daily) for 8 weeks may help reduce joint pain, swelling, and tiredness in women with rheumatoid arthritis.
- It may also improve overall function and reduce inflammation.
- More research is needed to understand how well it works over the long term.
Browse 2 studies
RCTA randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, evaluating the garlic supplement effects on some serum biomarkers of oxidative stress, and quality of life in women with rheumatoid arthritis2020n=70
In 70 women with rheumatoid arthritis, garlic 1000 mg/day for 8 weeks significantly reduced oxidative stress biomarkers and improved quality of life versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 1000 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 70
RCTThe effects of garlic (Allium sativum) supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers, fatigue, and clinical symptoms in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2020n=70
In 70 women with active rheumatoid arthritis, garlic 1000 mg/day for 8 weeks significantly reduced CRP, TNF-α, clinical symptoms, and fatigue versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 1000 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 70
GingerView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Some early research suggests that ginger might help with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- In one study, people with RA who took 1500 mg of ginger powder daily for 12 weeks had improvements in symptoms compared with those taking a placebo.
- Another small study tested a supplement containing ginger along with other herbs, but it did not work as well as the prescription drug celecoxib.
- Because these studies were small and not very strong, more research is needed to know whether ginger is truly effective.
Browse 1 study
RCTThe effect of ginger supplementation on some immunity and inflammation intermediate genes expression in patients with active Rheumatoid Arthritis2019
In 70 active rheumatoid arthritis patients, ginger 1500 mg/day for 12 weeks significantly modulated NF-κB, FoxP3, and other immune gene expression versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 1500 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
Milk ThistleView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is still unclear if taking milk thistle by mouth helps people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Some studies found that adding milk thistle to usual RA medicines reduced joint pain and swelling, stiffness in the morning, and symptoms like tiredness, sadness, and anxiety.
- Milk thistle may work because it helps reduce inflammation.
- More research is needed to be sure.
Browse 1 study
RCTSilymarin Supplementation in Active Rheumatoid Arthritis: Outcomes of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Clinical Study2024
An 8-week pilot RCT found 300 mg/day silymarin significantly reduced inflammatory markers and improved clinical symptoms in active rheumatoid arthritis patients on standard therapy.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 300 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
NattokinaseView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- There is not enough evidence to determine if nattokinase has any benefit for rheumatoid arthritis.
Browse 1 study
RCTTreatment of rheumatoid arthritis with a peptide diet: a randomized, controlled trial1998n=30
In 30 rheumatoid arthritis patients, 4 weeks of elemental peptide diet improved pain and HAQ scores transiently and reduced BMI vs usual diet, with only one remission.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 30
QuercetinView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- For people with rheumatoid arthritis, taking 500 mg of quercetin daily for 8 weeks can help reduce morning stiffness and pain, as well as pain after moving around.
- However, quercetin does not seem to reduce swelling in the joints or improve overall disease activity compared to no treatment.
- This means quercetin may ease some pain but doesn’t change the underlying joint inflammation.
Browse 1 study
RCTThe Effect of Quercetin on Inflammatory Factors and Clinical Symptoms in Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial2017n=50
In 50 women with rheumatoid arthritis, 500 mg/day quercetin for 8 weeks improved pain, disease activity, hs-TNF-α, and functional scores versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 500 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 50
ResveratrolView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- A small study showed that taking 1 gram of resveratrol daily along with usual rheumatoid arthritis medicines for 2 months helped reduce joint pain, swelling, and inflammation.
- It is not clear if it prevents joint damage or which medicine combinations work best.
Browse 1 study
RCTResveratrol as an effective adjuvant therapy in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: a clinical study2018n=50
In an open-label burnout trial, Rhodiola rosea extract increased stress resistance and reduced burnout symptoms over treatment, supporting further randomized studies.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 3 months
- Dose
- 1000 mg/day resveratrol
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 50
SeleniumView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It’s unclear if selenium supplements help people with rheumatoid arthritis.
- One small study found no improvement in joint swelling or inflammation after 3 months, but patients felt a little better overall.
- Another study showed that taking selenium twice daily for 12 weeks helped reduce pain and made daily activities easier, though it didn’t change doctors’ assessments of disease activity.
Browse 2 studies
RCTInvestigation of the Effect of Oral Selenium on the Reduction of Clinical Symptoms and Joint Pain in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Iranian Population2023
In rheumatoid arthritis patients, oral selenium as adjuvant therapy reduced clinical symptoms and joint pain versus standard treatment alone in this randomized trial.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 200 μg/day
- Population
- RA patients
RCTSelenium supplementation in rheumatoid arthritis investigated in a double blind, placebo-controlled trial2001n=55
In a multicenter RA trial, selenium 200 mcg/day for 3 months did not improve tender/swollen joint counts or quality of life versus placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 90 days
- Dose
- 200 mcg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 55
Vitamin KView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if vitamin K helps with rheumatoid arthritis.
- One small study found that taking vitamin K2 (a form of vitamin K) daily for 3 months helped reduce disease activity and inflammation when added to usual treatment.
- However, another study showed that vitamin K1 did not improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms after 8 weeks.
Browse 2 studies
RCTVitamin K1 Supplementation Did Not Alter Inflammatory Markers and Clinical Status in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis2018n=58
In an RCT of 58 participants, 10 mg/day, for 8 weeks, Vitamin K 1 supplementation at 10 mg/day for 8 weeks had no significant effects on blood biomarkers of inflammation and disease severity of patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared with the placebo group.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 10 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 58
RCTMenaquinone-7 as a novel pharmacological therapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A clinical study2015n=42
In an RCT of 42 participants, 100 mcg/day, therefore, MK-7 represents a new promising agent for RA in combination therapy with other disease modifying antirheumatic drugs.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 100 mcg/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 42
- Avg age
- ~47.2
MelatoninView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is unclear if melatonin helps people with rheumatoid arthritis.
- One small study found that taking 6 mg melatonin daily for 12 weeks did not improve joint symptoms or inflammation measures compared with a placebo.
- Melatonin did reduce some markers of oxidative stress and cholesterol, but it did not improve arthritis symptoms.Melatonin is unlikely to improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms based on current evidence.
Browse 2 studies
Systematic reviewMelatonin supplementation improves rheumatological disease activity: A systematic review2023n=5
A systematic review found melatonin supplementation improved disease activity in some rheumatologic conditions, though evidence varied by diagnosis.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 5
RCTEffects of melatonin supplementation on disease activity, oxidative stress, inflammatory, and metabolic parameters in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial2021
In 64 RA patients, melatonin 6 mg/day for 12 weeks reduced disease activity and oxidative stress markers versus placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 6 mg/day
- Population
- RA patients
Vitamin DView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Studies find a greater intake of vitamin D from foods or supplements is associated with a reduced risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
- But taking vitamin D does not reduce pain or lower the chance of rheumatoid arthritis returning compared to placebo.
Browse 2 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaVitamin D supplementation and disease activity in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis2017n=1,161
A meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (1,161 patients) found vitamin D supplementation did not significantly reduce disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis or lupus versus control.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 1,161
ObservationalVitamin D intake is inversely associated with rheumatoid arthritis: results from the Iowa Women's Health Study2004n=29,368
A prospective cohort of 29,368 Iowa women aged 55–69 found higher dietary vitamin D intake inversely associated with rheumatoid arthritis incidence over 11 years.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 29,368
- Ages
- 55–69
Alpha-Linolenic AcidView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Early research suggests that taking flaxseed oil for 3 months does not help reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- It appears to have no more benefit than safflower oil, which contains a different healthy fat called linoleic acid.
Browse 1 study
RCTAlpha-linolenic acid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed1995n=22
Double-blind RCT in 22 rheumatoid arthritis patients found 3-month alpha-linolenic acid from flaxseed did not improve joint scores or inflammatory markers versus safflower seed.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 22
Flaxseed OilView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- In a small study of people with rheumatoid arthritis, taking flaxseed oil every day for 3 months did not help reduce pain or stiffness.
- Supplementation had no effect on blood markers of inflammation, such as CRP or ESR, compared with those not taking flaxseed oil.
Browse 1 study
RCTAlpha-linolenic acid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed1995n=22
Double-blind RCT in 22 rheumatoid arthritis patients found 3-month alpha-linolenic acid from flaxseed did not improve joint scores or inflammatory markers versus safflower seed.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 22
Panax GinsengView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear if taking Panax ginseng helps with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- In a study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren syndrome, or both, taking 2000 mg of Panax ginseng daily for 3 months did not reduce fatigue compared to a placebo.
Browse 1 study
RCTEffectiveness of Korean Red Ginseng on fatigue in patients with rheumatic diseases: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study2024n=60
In 120 rheumatic disease patients, Korean red ginseng 2 g/day for 12 weeks did not significantly raise FACIT-Fatigue response rate versus placebo (38.3% vs 26.7%, p=0.242).
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 24 weeks
- Dose
- 2 g/day
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 60
- Avg age
- ~51
ReishiView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Reishi mushroom has only been tested for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in combination with other herbs, so it’s not known if it helps on its own.
- In a small study lasting 24 weeks, people with active RA already taking prescription medicines took reishi mushroom plus a mix of other herbs daily.
- This did not improve symptoms or blood tests related to RA compared with a placebo.
Browse 1 study
RCTSafety and efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum (lingzhi) and San Miao San supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial2007n=32
In 65 rheumatoid arthritis patients over 24 weeks, Ganoderma lucidum plus San Miao San did not significantly increase ACR20 response versus placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 24 weeks
- Dose
- 4 g/day G. lucidum + 2.4 g/day San Miao San
- Population
- RA patients
- Participants
- 32
Evidence visualised
Same ratings as above, aggregated so you can see coverage and imbalance.
| Supplement | DEX | Studies | Meta-analyses | Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fish Oil | ★★★★★68% | 14 | 2 | 28% |
| Curcumin | ★★★★★52% | 8 | 3 | 16% |
| Ashwagandha | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Collagen | ★★★★★56% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Garlic | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Melatonin | ★★★★★36% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Selenium | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Vitamin D | ★★★★★36% | 2 | 1 | 4% |
| Vitamin K | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Alpha-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★32% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Astaxanthin | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Boron | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Eucalyptus | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Flaxseed | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Flaxseed Oil | ★★★★★32% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Ginger | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Milk Thistle | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Nattokinase | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Panax Ginseng | ★★★★★32% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Potassium | ★★★★★56% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Quercetin | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Reishi | ★★★★★32% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Resveratrol | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |