It is rare to find a folk remedy that cleanly defeats modern medicine in a head-to-head test of efficacy, but that’s precisely what sesame seeds recently pulled off. In a study published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases, researchers announced that the humble sesame seed outperformed OTC stalwart Tylenol in a controlled experiment involving arthritic patients:

The researchers divided 50 people with arthritic knee pain into two groups. One received 2,000 milligrams of acetaminophen and 500 milligrams of glucosamine daily, while the other got 40 grams of sesame daily. After two months, those who had taken the sesame seed had significantly less pain and better function than those taking the drug. Other scientists have found that sesamin has a beneficial effect on cartilage (Glycoconjugate Journal online, December 2013).

It is a provocative finding which underscores just how little we still know about the science of inflammation, and how it impacts chronic joint pain. At minimum, this study should give pause to physicians who reach for the standard painkillers every time a new symptom arises.

Other holistic and naturally occurring anti-inflammatory foods include fish oil, turmeric, cherry juice, and devil’s claw. Many mature athletes have found knee pain relief with the use of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM. To learn more about effective treatments and procedures for knee pain, please contact my San Diego orthopedic surgery offices today.