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Research: LONG and colleagues, D
Listed in Issue 72
Abstract
LONG and colleagues, Department of Complementary Medicine, School of Postgraduate Medicine and Health Studies, University of Exeter, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, UK, aimed to systematically review (46 references) all randomized controlled trials on the effectiveness of herbal medicines in the treatment of osteoarthritis .
Background
Limitations in the conventional medical treatment of osteoarthritis indicate a real need for safe and effective [alternative or complementary] treatments . Herbal medicines may provide a solution to this problem.
Methodology
The investigators conducted computerized literature searches on five electronic databases. Trial data were extracted in a standardized, pre-defined manner and assessed independently.
Results
12 trials and two systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. The reported data provided promising evidence for the effective use of some herbal preparations in the treatment of osteoarthritis and evidence suggesting that some herbal preparations reduced the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs . The reviewed herbal medicines appeared to be relatively safe .
Conclusion
Some herbal medicines may offer a much-needed alternative for patients with osteoarthritis.
References
Long L et al. Herbal medicines for the treatment of osteoarthritis: a systematic review. Rheumatology 40 (7): 779-93. Jul 2001.
