Q. I have a sensitive stomach and cannot tolerate aspirin, ibuprofen or even Celebrex or Vioxx. Tylenol isn't very helpful for my stiff fingers and sore knees.
My doctor seems frustrated about treating my arthritis pain. I have tried glucosamine and chondroitin, but although it helped a little, my cholesterol went up. Do you have any recommendations on natural ways to control cholesterol and alleviate arthritis pain?
A. The side effects of many pain relievers can put arthritis sufferers in a bind. Many people can't tolerate anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. Although Celebrex and Vioxx are supposed to be gentler on the stomach, some people do experience heartburn, indigestion or even ulcers as a reaction to them.
We have heard from hundreds of people who have found home remedies helpful, but no single one works for everybody. One reader says, "My husband could hardly get out of a chair or open a car door. His whole body ached! I gave him 4 ounces of this mixture daily with meals: 16 ounces apple juice, 4 ounces grape juice and 4 ounces apple cider vinegar. It has worked like a charm."
A similar concoction is used by some people to lower cholesterol. Many natural remedies for arthritis and high cholesterol can be found in our book, The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies. You can find it in your local library or bookstore, or purchase it directly by calling (800) 732-2334 ($8.99 includes postage & handling).
