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Has anyone tried turmeric, cherry juice, or fish oil?

Has anyone tried Turmeric or cherry juice or fish oil? I want to try something natural before Humira!

Methotrexate isn't working for my RA. Dr wants me to start Humira but I'm TERRIFIED to take something that intentionally lowers my immune system.

  1. HI wendyo! Thanks for your question. First off, don't forget that YOU get to decide whether or not you proceed with a treatment. Your doctor can recommend certain medications, but in the end, YOU can choose whether or not you go with that treatment. Humira *is* a strong medication, but, then, so is Methotrexate. While Turmeric has been shown to help with inflammation, it cannot stop damage to joints, which is why many people choose to use both natural treatments and conventional treatments. Here is some information on fish oil -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/diet-and-nutrition/fish-oil-and-omega-3-fatty-acids. And here is some information on healthy foods for RA, including cherries (and cherry juice).

    As you well know, what works for one person may not work as well for another, so any of these treatments, conventional or natural, may or may not work for you (as you have already discovered with Methotrexate).

    I hope this information is helpful for you and that you may get some additional input from our community members.

    Good luck making this decision and know you are not alone!

    Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.

    1. Thank you so much for answering and all the information. I really appreciate it!

  2. Hi Wendyo. Glad to see you are seeking out information in crafting your treatment plans. As Erin mentioned, the decision on what treatment to pursue and the risks to take is truly a personal one.

    Please know that you are always welcome here for information and support. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)

    1. I agree with Erin. Biologics are what stop joint damage. I have been on them for 3 years, and only had 2 infections. I found Humira much easier to tolerate than methotrexate. Turmeric has helped in conjunction with my Xeljanz, but I would not rely on it alone. Hope this helps.
      MS

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