Arthritis Today just published an article about the following supplements. I think it's always important to discuss supplements with your doctor before trying anything new.
Arnica (Arnica Montana)
Aconite (Aconitum napellus)
Adrenal, spleen, thymus extracts
Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale)
5-HTP (5-hydroxytrytophan)
GBL (Gamma-butyrolactone)
L-tryptophan
Chaparral
Kombucha tea
http://www.arthritistoday.org/treatments/supplement-guide/supplements-to-avoid.php
Thanks for that post. Very interesting, especially about the kombucha.
I couldn't live without my Travacor...has 5-HTP (5-hydroxytrytophan)...as a matter of fact, I started it at the same time as Plaquenil, about a month ago...and my joint pain has lessened significantly! And, Plaquenil can take months to work. I noticed relief at about 2 weeks. I did read some of the article and searched a bit...I will consult my Rheumy. Thank you for this info!
I definitely disagree with the article about L-tryptophan and 5-HTP (Tryptophan is converted to 5-HTP, which is then converted into Serotonin and Melatonin). Only one batch (of L-Tryptophan) has ever linked to EMS, and that is because it was tainted and poorly manufactured. They're both getting a bad rap for cheap companies who didn't care enough about their customers to use proper techinques.
The only real concern is how much of them you take. Overdose is definitely a possibility, but I wouldn't avoid it based on just that.
As for Kombucha tea, throwing out the "anthrax" name is just a scare tactic. Anthrax isn't native to the whole world, only small areas. So long as you maintain a clean environment where you are "growing" your tea, you shouldn't run into problems with contamination. If you are severely immunocompromised, it might be a good idea to skip over this one though. But chances are if you're in that state, you're also avoiding root vegetables, red meat and so on already (and hopefully know what to avoid).
Thanks for your input Nathan. You are obviously well informed which is really the main point here - that people shouldn't blindly start taking a new supplement without researching it first. I can't speak for the specifics on any of the supplements they list in the article, but just wanted to put the information out there. Not intending to scare anyone or make a decision for them.
Found this on the 5 HTP:
http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=21399
I'm not concerned. But, Amk..keep posting! It is ALWAYS a good idea to stay informed! :)