2. Prednisone or Cortisone
Prescribed for: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, asthma, allergies and many other conditions.
Corticosteroids are designed to mimic the effects of the natural hormones your adrenal glands produce, which sit just above your kidneys.
They are typically prescribed in doses that exceed your body’s normal levels in order to suppress inflammation.
Side effects:
- High blood sugar, which can trigger or worsen diabetes
- Increased risk of infections
- Osteoporosis and bone fractures
- Suppressed adrenal gland hormone production
- Thin skin, easy bruising and slower wound healing
- Moon Faces (swollen face)
- Cataracts
Natural Alternatives:
Turmeric (curcumin) has similar physiological healing effects to steroids.
Studies show it can treat inflammation caused by arthritis (rheumatologic or immunologic imbalance), swelling, pain, allergic skin reactions, eczema and other conditions normally treated by steroids.
You can take up to 4-5 grams of turmeric powder daily, but it is best to start with lower doses until your get used to it (11).